Escapes

TAKE THE FALLS

Mother Nature makes quite a splash at these five sites. So charge your phones, pack your cameras and capture a day’s worth of photos.

By Emma Cameron

Hiking through the fall foliage to a breathtaking cascade is an autumn rite of passage. But you need not travel far for your waterfall fill.

Though we’re known for shopping malls, Bergen County and our

New Jersey neighbors also boast natural wonders that’ll make you glad you brought a camera. Here are five must-see falls, all within a twohour drive from our county.

HEMLOCK FALLS SOUTH ORANGE

Essex County’s South Mountain Reservation is a popular destination for all shutterbugs, novice hikers and adventure seekers. With a sprawling 2,110 acres and 50 miles of trails, the park contains many of nature’s best elements—hills, forests, rivers, and, of course, Hemlock Falls. The 25-foot-high waterfall is a thrilling sight every season, its breathtaking façade especially noteworthy this time of year when fall colors begin to emerge. But don’t stop there. While hiking along the Hemlock Falls Trail may not top a traveler’s list of things to do in winter, witnessing the frozen falls is worth every bit of chill. Also check out: For more magic, Jennifer Lee of Northvale advises taking the kids to “the fairy trail, a half mile of flats at the end with little houses built out of sticks.” Distance from Bergen: 40 minutes

BUTTERMILK FALLS WALPACK TOWNSHIP

Pack some snacks and your camera gear for a trip to Stokes State Forest in Sussex County’s Walpack Township. There, you can soak up the scenery of 63 miles of trails that meander through old-growth forests, mountains and farmland. No hiking is necessary to view the 165-foot-tall Buttermilk Falls, which is in clear view from the parking lot. But if you’re up for a trek and not afraid of heights, you can climb the stairway to a viewing platform at the tippy top of New Jersey’s tallest waterfall. Have your camera’s settings ready, as you’ll want to start shooting when you see the rushing water and surrounding evergreens and rocky terrain. Although gorgeous in any weather, the cascade is at its best after heavy rainfall. Bill Ardeljian of Garfield says it’s “a nice scenic drive” but warns, “watch your footing and careful of snakes under rocks and leaves!” Also check out: After taking in the views from the top, consider following the blue blazes along the Buttermilk Falls Trail. And for more adventure, break out a map and compass and search for Silver Lake Falls, also known as Hidden Falls. The unmarked trailhead is about 0.5 miles north along Mountain Road. Distance from Bergen: 1.5 hours

CHIKAHOKI FALLS BLOOMINGDALE

Norvin Green State Forest in the Bloomingdale/Wanaque area of Passaic County offers visitors a variety of forested trails that are suitable for both a sightseeing family and a hiker extraordinaire. Just a short walk from the Otter Hole Parking Lot is Chikahoki Falls, where water descends 350 feet to the swimming hole at the base of the falls. We recommend a quick dip on hot days before making the uphill climb when you return to the top. Experienced trailblazers can trek the 7.7-mile loop along the Otter Hole, Wyanokie Crest, Highlands and Hewitt-Butler trail to tour the Norvin Green sightseeing essentials. Paola Suarez from Cliffside Park describes the loop as well marked, and one “can make a long or short hike by connecting different trails. [It’s] a good mix of up and down hills!” Also check out: If you take the longer trail, make sure to stop at Wyanokie Highpoint, where you can take in a 360-degree view of the Wanaque Reservoir, the Saddle Buck Mountains and, on a clear day, the NYC skyline. Distance from Bergen: 40 minutes

GREAT FALLS PATERSON

A National Historical Park, the Great Falls in Passaic County is a destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. In 1791, Alexander Hamilton developed the city of Paterson around this 77-foot Passaic River wonder, and it was designated as a historical park by Congress in 2009. It’s viewable from the Haines Overlook Park on the south, the Mary Ellen Kramer Park on the north, as well as a footbridge directly over the ravine. The impressive plummet into a massive gorge, combined with the roar of the Passaic River, makes this waterfall a sightseeing must all year round. Also check out: After you’ve gotten your share of photos at the falls, which Jodi Weinberger of New Milford says to capture from all different angles of the park, she recommends visiting other nearby sites, such as “the Paterson Museum, Lamberts Castle and Garretson Forge & Farm.” Distance from Bergen: 20 minutes

RAMAPO FALLS MAHWAH

Located in Mahwah, the Ramapo Valley County Reservation contains panoramic views, exciting wildlife watching and Ramapo Falls. The 4,000-acre county park reaches its most spectacular at the peak of fall foliage. Visitors can follow the 3.7-mile Vista Loop to view Ramapo Falls. The tranquil stream cascades over the rocky terrain, making the perfect picture to commemorate the hike. “Ramapo Reservation is one of my all-time favorite places to hike,” says Oradell’s Sophia Doyle. “There are waterfalls, trails and grand lookouts.” And make sure to bring Fido along for the trip. The water and the scenic hike are a dog lover’s dream! Also check out: Other popular trails lead to Hawk Rock, Ridge Overlook, Macmillan Reservoir and Scarlet Oak Pond. On your adventure, you may spot castle ruins, prickly pear cacti and other surprises. “If heights are not your thing or you want to take it easy,” adds Doyle, “I recommend hiking around the lower pond. The path is tranquil, and you might just spot some small forest creatures.”