The best running trails around Upper Greenwood Lake

There are over 10 dedicated running routes around Upper Greenwood Lake, offering a variety of experiences for joggers. These routes range in difficulty from easy to challenging.

The terrain around Upper Greenwood Lake is quite diverse, featuring dense woodlands, rock formations, and sections of the scenic Bearfort Mountain range. You'll find a mix of paths, from mostly paved sections to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains, often traversing extensive parklands like Wawayanda State Park and Abram S. Hewitt State Forest.

Yes, there are easy options available. A great choice for a relaxed run is the Easy trail near Wawayanda Lake – Wawayanda Lake loop from Wawayanda. This moderate route is 6.4 miles (10.3 km) and offers a scenic path around Wawayanda Lake, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous experience.

Absolutely. The region's mountainous landscape, particularly around Bearfort Mountain, provides several challenging routes with notable elevation gains. While specific challenging komoot tours are not detailed here, the area's extensive state parks like Wawayanda State Park and Abram S. Hewitt State Forest are known for trails with rock scrambles and ridge-top views, offering a good workout for experienced runners.

Many of the running routes around Upper Greenwood Lake are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Wawayanda Lake – Easy trail near Wawayanda Lake loop from Beech Island is a popular moderate 8.0-mile (12.9 km) circular path featuring varied forest terrain.

Jogging routes often provide glimpses of the region's natural beauty. You might encounter various lakes such as Wawayanda Lake, Sterling Lake, and Surprise Lake. The Monksville Dam is another notable man-made monument you might pass. The trails also traverse dense woodlands and offer picturesque mountain views from the Bearfort Ridge.

While some trails can be challenging, there are options suitable for families, especially those looking for moderate activity. The easier, mostly paved paths or the less strenuous loops around lakes, such as the Wawayanda Lake – Laurel Pond loop from Beech Island (5.3 miles), can be enjoyable for families who enjoy running or walking together.

Many trails in the state parks and forests surrounding Upper Greenwood Lake are dog-friendly, though leash laws typically apply. It's always best to check the specific regulations for Wawayanda State Park or Abram S. Hewitt State Forest before heading out with your canine companion.

Yes, parking is generally available at the trailheads and within the state parks like Wawayanda State Park and Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, which serve as access points for many running routes. Specific parking areas are usually indicated on park maps.

The spring and fall seasons are often considered ideal for running around Upper Greenwood Lake. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery, with blooming foliage in spring or vibrant colors in autumn, enhances the experience. Summer can be pleasant, but be mindful of humidity and heat, while winter running is possible but may require appropriate gear for snow or ice.

Runners frequently praise the diverse trail systems and the scenic beauty of the Upper Greenwood Lake area. The blend of dense woodlands, rock formations, and mountain views, especially within Wawayanda State Park and Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, provides a visually appealing and physically engaging environment. The opportunity to run alongside or with glimpses of various lakes also adds to the serene setting.

Yes, several routes offer beautiful lake views. The trails around Wawayanda Lake, such as the Laurel Pond – Wawayanda Lake loop from Beech Island, provide excellent opportunities to run alongside or with glimpses of the water. The region's proximity to other natural water bodies like Surprise Lake also contributes to tranquil views.

Absolutely. The primary areas for running are Wawayanda State Park and Abram S. Hewitt State Forest. These extensive natural areas provide a vast network of trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, catering to various fitness levels and offering diverse landscapes for your run.