The best walks and hikes around Englewood Cliffs
4.8
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1,565
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115
hikes
Hiking around Englewood Cliffs is defined by trails along the steep, rocky Palisades Cliffs, which rise from the western bank of the Hudson River. The terrain consists of forested paths, some with ascents to viewpoints, and riverside sections. Most routes are located within the Palisades Interstate Park and the nearby Flat Rock Brook Nature Center. This area offers a blend of extensive natural landscapes with accessibility to urban centers.
Best hiking trails around Englewood Cliffs
- The most popular hiking route is Long Path from Allison Park â Palisades Interstate Park, a 3.1 miles (4.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This route follows a section of the Long Path through Palisades Interstate Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Marble Hill, a moderate 5.6 miles (9.0 km) path. The trail features an elevation gain of 502 feet (153 meters) and crosses into Inwood Hill Park.
- Local hikers also love the Flat Rock Brook Orange Loop Trail, a 0.6 miles (1.0 km) trail leading through a nature preserve, often completed in about 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Englewood Cliffs is defined by forested trails, rocky cliffs along the Hudson River, and paths through nature preserves. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, with most routes being easy to moderate.
- The routes in Englewood Cliffs are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 1,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Englewood Cliffs's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4
hikers
24.4km
06:40
350m
350m
The Shore Trail in Palisades Interstate Park offers a dynamic hiking experience, blending serene riverside paths with demanding rock scrambles. You'll traverse varied terrain, from paved sections to wild, rocky trails, all while enjoying incredible vistas of the Hudson River, the New York City skyline, and the impressive George Washington Bridge. The highlight for many is the mile-long Giant Stairs, a boulder field that provides a unique and physically engaging challenge.
This is a difficult 15.2-mile (24.4 km) hike with 1155 feet (352 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 6 hours and 39 minutes to complete. Access the trail from several points, including the Alpine Picnic Area or the southern trailhead near Fort Lee Historic Park. Good, sturdy hiking boots are essential, especially for the rugged sections and the Giant Stairs, ensuring you're prepared for the varied terrain.
What makes the Shore Trail stand out is its ability to offer remote, wild sections within close proximity to urban areas, providing a true escape into nature. The challenging Giant Stairs rock scramble is a defining feature, setting it apart from many other trails in the region. The route also connects to other paths like the Long Path, allowing for extended adventures and further exploration of the Palisades Interstate Park.
1
hikers
1.03km
00:17
10m
20m
The Flat Rock Brook Orange Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a vibrant Oak-Hickory forest, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll wander past a serene pond, a gently cascading stream, and even encounter impressive seventy-foot quarry cliffs, providing a diverse visual experience. This 0.6-mile (1.0 km) loop with only 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 16 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking a short, engaging walk.
Located within the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, the trail is easily accessible, with parking available on-site. The paths are well-marked with colored blazes, ensuring a straightforward and enjoyable experience. Given its urban oasis setting, it's a great option for a spontaneous outing, and you can visit year-round to observe the seasonal changes in the forest.
This trail is part of a significant 150-acre natural woodland preserve, renowned for its excellent birdwatching and wildlife observation opportunities, including chipmunks, turtles, and various birds. Recent improvements, such as a nature-based playground and picnic groves, further enhance its appeal, especially for those with children. It's a fantastic example of a family-friendly trail that brings nature close to the city.
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3.27km
00:50
10m
10m
Step into the 'wilds of suburbia' on the Little Chism Trail (Red), a delightful 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hike that winds through a mosaic of dense deciduous and evergreen forests. You'll traverse open meadows of tall prairie grass and catch views of a vast, blue lake, often spotting deer along the way. This easy route, with only 46 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, offers a varied landscape that feels much further from the city than it is, making it a perfect quick escape. Expect a pleasant, engaging walk that takes about 50 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Little Chism Trail (Red) is straightforward, as it's easily accessible within Shawnee Mission Park. However, it's crucial to note that this multi-use trail is shared with mountain bikers and is prone to closures during wet, muddy, snowy, or icy conditions to protect the path. Always check park status before you go to ensure the trail is open and in good condition. This trail is a fantastic option for those seeking outdoor activity close to home in the Kansas City suburbs.
Part of a larger network of colored trail loops in Shawnee Mission Park, the Little Chism Trail (Red) is recognized for its quality, with the park's red and violet loops often ranked among the best trails in Kansas. It offers a blend of natural beauty and accessibility, making it suitable for families with children accustomed to more advanced hiking. The park's commitment to well-maintained trails ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors.
6.63km
01:45
60m
60m
Hike the easy 4.1-mile Fort Washington Park Greenway for scenic views of the Hudson River, George Washington Bridge, and Little Red Lighthou
887m
00:15
20m
20m
The Flat Rock Brook White Trail Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a vibrant Oak-Hickory forest, providing a quick escape into nature. This 0.6-mile (0.9 km) loop features gentle terrain and picturesque views of Quarry Pond, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing stroll. With only 64 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, it's an accessible route that takes about 15 minutes to complete, perfect for observing local wildlife and wildflowers.
Planning your visit to this easy trail is straightforward, as it's located within the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, an urban oasis just two miles from the George Washington Bridge. The preserve's trails are well-maintained and self-guided, welcoming individuals and families of all skill levels. It's a convenient option for a quick dose of nature without needing extensive preparation.
What makes this trail particularly notable is its role as a natural sanctuary so close to New York City. While the White Trail Loop can be enjoyed on its own, it also connects to a larger, roughly 2-mile perimeter loop that incorporates other colored trails within the preserve, allowing you to explore diverse habitats like wetlands, streams, and meadows. The entire preserve is known for excellent birdwatching opportunities and a rich variety of wildlife.
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Tips from the Community
Some rocks along the Long Path offer an open view of the Hudson River. You can take advantage of this quiet spot to pause and enjoy the moment.
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Long set of stairs to take you up along the ridge. The stairs are part of the Long Path and are made of wood and dirt.
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Point Lookout is a popular viewpoint in Palisades Interstate Park. There are great views of the Hudson River.
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Peanut Leap Cascade Park is a picturesque, nestled in the Palisades Interstate Park, with breathtaking views of the Hudson River. There is a 2.8-mile trail that winds through historic ruins, rocky cliffs, and a lovely waterfall. As you descend to the cascade, the sound of rushing water and the surrounding wilderness make for a great escape away from the busy city.
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Used to be part of my regular commute. You've made it all the way up from the "S" hill - bonus kudos if you didn't step off your bike. Keep going and head to Inwood Hill Park!
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Enjoy stunning views over the water and a castle-like stone monument to the New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs, which played an integral role in preserving the natural stone "palisades" of this area.
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Take a break and enjoy a picnic right on the Hudson River. Public restrooms are available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Englewood Cliffs?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Palisades Interstate Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good practice to check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike, especially within nature preserves like the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, which may have different rules to protect local wildlife.
Where can I find a hike with a waterfall near Englewood Cliffs?
The area features some lovely cascades. A popular hike is the Peanut Leap Cascade into Giant Stairs trail, a moderate route that leads to a picturesque waterfall. Another option is the Dyckman Hill trail, which starts near the Englewood Picnic Area and passes by three small waterfalls.
What are some good family-friendly or easy hikes in the area?
For an easy and educational outing, the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center loop is an excellent choice. This short trail winds through a well-regarded nature preserve with streams and meadows. Another gentle option is the Inwood Hill Park loop, which offers a pleasant walk through forested paths.
Are there any challenging hikes near Englewood Cliffs?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous workout, the Palisades offer some challenging terrain. The Giant Stairs hike is well-known for its rock scramble section, requiring careful navigation over large boulders along the Hudson River. The Clinton Point Hike is another demanding option, an 8-mile round-trip that takes around 5 hours to complete.
Where can I find the best views of the Hudson River and NYC skyline?
Many trails in Palisades Interstate Park offer spectacular vistas. The Long Path from Allison Park provides stunning views of the Hudson River from atop the cliffs. For an easily accessible viewpoint, the Rockefeller Lookout and other overlooks along the Palisades Interstate Parkway offer panoramic scenes without a long hike.
What are the parking options for the hiking trails?
Parking is available at several points within Palisades Interstate Park. The Englewood Picnic Area and Ross Dock Picnic Area offer parking and serve as trailheads for several routes. There are also designated lots at various overlooks and access points, such as Allison Park. It's best to arrive early on weekends as popular spots can fill up quickly.
How many hiking trails are there in the Englewood Cliffs area?
There are nearly 100 curated hiking routes to explore around Englewood Cliffs on komoot. These range from easy walks in nature preserves to moderate and difficult treks along the Palisades cliffs, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Englewood Cliffs?
The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic cliffside views over the Hudson River, the well-maintained trails within Palisades Interstate Park, and the peaceful, forested paths found in places like Flat Rock Brook Nature Center.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The Dyckman Hill/Carpenter's Grove Loop is an easy 3.9-mile circuit with pleasant views. For a more moderate challenge, the Hiking loop from Marble Hill is a 5.6-mile route that offers a varied experience. Many hikers also create their own loops by combining sections of the Long Path and the Shore Trail.
What kind of terrain should I expect when hiking in Englewood Cliffs?
The terrain is quite varied. Expect forested paths, some of which can be rocky and rooted. The defining feature is the Palisades, which means many trails involve ascents and descents on steep, rocky cliffs. You'll also find flatter, gentler paths along the river's edge on the Shore Trail and within nature preserves.
Are there any easy walks suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The Fort Tyron Park loop is a short, accessible walk perfect for beginners. The trails within Flat Rock Brook Nature Center are also ideal, offering a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty on well-marked paths.
Can I go for a hike and have a picnic?
Yes, the Englewood Picnic Area is a popular spot located right on the riverfront. It's equipped with picnic tables and grills, and it serves as a convenient starting point for several trails. It's a great place to relax and have a meal after your hike.
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