9 Spots To See Fall Color

Whether you’re craving a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, you’ll find the perfect spot to see Mother Nature in all her glory.
Cheryl De Leon,
2 Spots Fall Color

October is in full swing, and your seasonal to-do list is no doubt already filling up. Now is the time to grab your family, your friends or your beau and enjoy apple picking, great décor [link to Halloween houses item from this newsletter], amazing festivals—and, of course, the spectacular views of New Jersey’s fall foliage.

 The leaves are just starting to turn in this part of the state, per the New Jersey Forest Service, and we’re expected to reach peak color by the middle of the month. (Keep an eye on the NJFS’s Facebook page for weekly updated!)

Want to enjoy the view right here in Bergen County? Here are some of our favorite trails and scenic outlooks where you can take in the crisp fall air and Mother Nature’s best looks.

At Ramapo Valley County Reservation, Mahwah

  • Hawk Rock. A moderate hike will take you up to this outlook, elevated around 450 feet above the rest of the terrain, where the reservoir, reservation and much of the rest of the county will sprawl out beneath you.
  • MacMillan Brook Falls. Both the yellow-flagged Vista Loop trail and the blue-flagged Ridge Loop trail will take you past these tumbling falls, which are must-see any time of year but even more spectacular surrounded by fall color. (This also offers a shorter hike if you’d just like to see the falls and then turn back.)
  • MacMillan Reservoir Loop. Take the blue-flagged Ridge Loop trail up and then pick up the pink-flagged loop, which circles the still MacMillian Reservoir. Its reflection will offer you twice the autumn leaves.

At Palisades Interstate Park, Alpine

  • Women’s Federation Monument Hike. Though the climb is a bit steep, this trail is only about 2 miles long. It will take you past the castle-like Women’s Federation Monument and end at the spectacular State Line Lookout.
  • Carpenter’s Loop. Considered a “moderate” hike, you’ll see the George Washington Bridge and the banks of the Hudson pressed against a riot of colors. The trail ends at the Fort Lee Historic Park.
  • Clinton Point Loop. You’ll need to pack for a day hike for this one, as it’s about 8 miles over rocky terrain and will take around five hours to complete, but the views are worth it. See the riverfront, a breathtaking summit and then end at the Englewood Picnic Area.

At the Celery Farm, Allendale

  • The Mayor Fitzpatrick Nature Trail. A flat, easy loop, this is the perfect walk if you have younger children. This freshwater marshland is a treat during the fall, with Lake Appert offering beautiful reflections and scenic overlooks.

At Closter Nature Center, Closter

  • The White Trail/Blue Trail Loop. Most of the trails here are flat and short, though they are often muddy, so plan accordingly and wear appropriate shoes. The white trail parallels Anderson Brook, and then you can pick up the blue trail for a walk around a wetland.

At the Emerson Woods Preserve, Emerson

  • The Nature Walk. Part of the watershed buffer surrounding the Oradell Reservoir, this is a great place for a quick autumn stroll. The views of the water are even better when surrounded by orange, yellow and red leaves.

Show off your best fall foliage pictures with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life