The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ridgewood
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Family friendly hiking trails around Ridgewood, New Jersey, offer diverse natural landscapes and numerous parks for outdoor activities. The region features a blend of suburban areas with accessible green spaces, including wooded areas, rivers, and ponds. Hikers can explore varied terrain, from paved pathways to woodland trails, within Ridgewood and its proximity to larger state forests and preserves. This provides a range of options for different skill levels, characterized by deciduous and evergreen trees.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Ridgewood
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Wild Duck Pond Pathway, an easy 0.5 miles (0.7 km) trail that takes 11 minutes to complete. This short, accessible path offers tranquil views around the pond.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Saddle River County Park Bike Path, a moderate 7.9 miles (12.7 km) path. This route winds through wooded areas alongside the Saddle River, providing scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Local hikers also love the Wild Duck Pond loop from Ridgewood High School, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 2 hours 1 minute.
- Hiking around Ridgewood is defined by its mix of paved multi-use paths, woodland trails, and serene ponds. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more moderate excursions.
- The routes in Ridgewood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from 8 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Ridgewood's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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The Wild Duck Pond Pathway offers a tranquil escape into nature, even for a short stroll. You'll follow a smooth, paved path that meanders past the reflective Wild Duck Pond, where local wildlife like ducks and turtles are often seen enjoying the water. The route also traces the banks of the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, moving through shaded wooded sections and open marshy stretches dotted with reeds, creating a varied and calming atmosphere.
Planning your visit to this easy 0.5-mile (0.7 km) hike, which takes about 11 minutes with only 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The pathway is part of a larger, well-maintained park system that includes amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. It's a great option for a quick outing, and the park's underpass bridges mean you can avoid crossing busy roads, enhancing the peaceful experience.
What makes this trail particularly notable is its integration into a much larger, continuous park system in Bergen County, New Jersey. While this specific segment is short and easy, it connects to a 10.6-mile (17.1 km) looped trail, offering extensive exploration for those who want to extend their adventure. The thoughtful design and abundant amenities make it a standout choice for an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience.
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The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook through a varied landscape of wooded sections, open fields, and marshy areas. You'll encounter tranquil ponds, including the Wild Duck Pond, and even a picturesque waterfall at Dunkerhook Park, making for a scenic and engaging walk. The path itself is primarily paved, but you can easily find unpaved dirt trails branching off for a more natural hiking feel.
This moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route, with a minimal 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes to complete. It's a popular choice, so if you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit for a weekday or early morning. The trail connects multiple park areas, offering numerous access points and amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way.
What makes this trail stand out is its unique blend of accessibility and diverse features, linking five distinct park areas. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll pass by recreational amenities and historical landmarks like the Historic Easton Tower. The option to choose between paved and light dirt trails, combined with abundant wildlife sightings like deer and frogs, makes it a versatile and rewarding outing for families and casual hikers alike.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Many people enjoy coming here for a peaceful break. You might see families having picnics by the water or people simply sitting on benches, enjoying the quiet. The pond and the pathway are good for seeing local wildlife. Besides ducks, you might spot turtles sunning themselves or different kinds of birds flying overhead.
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The Saddle River County Park Path stretches from Duck Pond to Rochelle Park, traversing several parks along the Saddle River. Along the way, there are numerous spots to pause and relish the river view, with some areas even allowing you to dip your feet in the water.
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They constructed Wild Duck Pond around 1927 as a man-made feature. Previously, they would flood this area to create a winter ice skating rink. It's now a lovely park area where you can take a break and unwind by the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Ridgewood?
Ridgewood and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of family-friendly hiking options. Our guide features over 30 routes, with the majority being easy to moderate, perfect for families with children of all ages.
Are there any easy, stroller-friendly trails for families with very young children?
Yes, for families with strollers or very young children, the paved pathways of Wild Duck Pond Pathway in Saddle River County Park are an excellent choice. This short, flat route offers a peaceful stroll around the pond, ideal for a gentle outing.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly hikes?
Many parks and trails in the Ridgewood area are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. Saddle River County Park, for example, generally allows leashed dogs on its multi-use paths. Always check specific park regulations before you go to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! The Wild Duck Pond loop from Ridgewood High School is a great circular option. This moderate 8 km route provides a lovely walk around the Wild Duck Pond and through parts of Saddle River County Park, perfect for a family adventure.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can we expect to see on these trails?
The trails around Ridgewood offer diverse natural beauty. You can expect to see serene water features like the Wild Duck Pond and the Oradell Reservoir. Many paths wind through dense woodlands with deciduous and evergreen trees, providing scenic views and opportunities for nature observation.
Where can we find trails with water features like ponds or rivers?
Saddle River County Park is an excellent place to find trails alongside water, including the Wild Duck Pond and the Saddle River itself. The Saddle River County Park Bike Path follows the river for much of its length, offering pleasant waterside views.
What are the parking options for family-friendly trails in Ridgewood?
Most major parks and trailheads in and around Ridgewood, such as Saddle River County Park and Twinney Pond Park, offer dedicated parking areas. For specific routes, it's always advisable to check the route details on komoot for trailhead parking information.
What's the best time of year to go hiking with family in Ridgewood?
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful for family hikes in Ridgewood. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall offers stunning foliage. Summer can be pleasant, especially in shaded wooded areas, and even mild winter days can be enjoyable for a crisp walk.
Can we spot any wildlife while hiking with our family?
Yes, the diverse ecosystems around Ridgewood, including wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species, especially around water bodies like the Wild Duck Pond.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for older kids?
For families with older children looking for a bit more challenge, the Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a moderate 12.6 km route. While mostly flat, its length provides a good workout and a chance to explore more of the park's varied landscapes.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Ridgewood?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful natural settings, and the accessibility of trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Are there options for a quick family walk, or are all trails long?
Ridgewood offers plenty of options for quick family walks. Trails like the Wild Duck Pond Pathway are less than a kilometer, perfect for a short stroll with young children or when you have limited time. Twinney Pond Park also features a short walking trail around its pond.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the family-friendly trails?
Ridgewood's blend of suburban tranquility means that many trails are conveniently located near the town center or other commercial areas. After a hike in Saddle River County Park, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in nearby towns for a family meal or a quick snack.
What are some of the larger nature preserves nearby for a family day trip?
For a more extensive family day trip, several larger nature preserves are within a short drive. Ramapo Mountain State Forest and Campgaw Mountain Reservation are both within 15 minutes, offering extensive hiking opportunities and diverse terrain for a longer family adventure.
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