North NJ Hikes
Hike guides for the rugged northern portion of New Jersey. The majority of Jersey’s well known hikes are located across this region – Mt. Tammany, Stairway to Heaven, Wyanokie High Point, and the Giant Stairs. Listed by last updated.
Also check out Best Hikes in NJ for a curated collection or Hiking in NJ for the master list of every hike guide on the site.
Buttermilk Falls, Crater Lake, Hemlock Pond
Start at NJ’s highest waterfall then hike steeply uphill to the Appalachian Trail, Crater Lake, and Hemlock Pond.
Sunfish Pond – Garvey Springs and Douglas Loop
Short-but-steep loop to Sunfish Pond via the Garvey Springs trail and includes Laurel Falls.
Jockey Hollow – Grand Parade Loop
Hike a loop through the heart of Jockey Hollow from Wick House to the soldier’s huts, and explore a scenic brook.
The Giant Stairs – Palisades
Scramble over the Giant Stairs – a long section of huge boulders that have tumbled from the Palisades – with views over the Hudson River into NY.
Stairway to Heaven: Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista
Hike over boardwalks and a suspension bridge before climbing the “Stairway to Heaven” – one of the best viewpoints in NJ.
Four Birds Trail – Wildcat Ridge
A rugged trail through a very pretty area, with several stream hops and views from a hawk watch.
Jenny Jump State Forest – Ghost Lake
Hike through Jenny Jump State Forest for many views of the surrounding mountains and valleys before arriving at Ghost Lake.
Sunfish Pond
Hike through some of the prettiest forest in New Jersey to a glacial lake 1,000 feet above the surrounding area.
Black River County Park – Cooper Mill
Hike from the old Cooper Mill through the Black River Gorge and a pine forest, with a side trip to the ruins of Kay’s Cottage.
Torne Mountain and Osio Rock
Climb Torne Mountain and enjoy view after view before reaching Osio Rock for a 360° panorama.
Pyramid Mountain – Tripod Rock
Hike to three large glacial erratics – Tripod Rock, Whale Head Rock, and Bear Rock – as well as two overlooks.