Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
North America
United States
New Jersey
Passaic County

Upper Greenwood Lake

Attractions and Places To See around Upper Greenwood Lake - Top 13

Best attractions and places to see around Upper Greenwood Lake, located in West Milford Township, New Jersey, offers a blend of natural features and recreational opportunities. This 400-acre man-made lake is situated at an elevation of 1,135 feet, providing a setting for outdoor activities. The region features extensive trails for hiking and exploring, alongside several lakes and viewpoints. It serves as a destination for those seeking natural landscapes and historical points of interest.

Best attractions and places to see around Upper Greenwood Lake

  • The most popular attractions is Monksville Dam, a man-made monument that offers views over Monksville Reservoir and the surrounding hills. It serves as a break point for taking pictures, especially when crossing on Stonetown Road.
  • Another must-see spot is Sterling Lake, a lake offering beautiful views and a peaceful setting. The trails around the lake provide easy-to-moderate hikes through wooded areas, and it is popular for fishing and picnicking.
  • Visitors also love Surprise Lake, a lake located in Abraham Hewitt State Forest. This reservoir offers a more private experience due to fewer visitors compared to larger lakes in the area.
  • Upper Greenwood Lake is known for its lakes, viewpoints, and natural monuments. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, including popular hiking trails Upper Greenwood Lake and scenic routes.
  • The attractions around Upper Greenwood Lake are appreciated by the komoot community, with 5 upvotes and 3 photos.

Last updated: May 29, 2026

Wawayanda Lake

Highlight • Lake

Right next to a parking area, this beautiful lake is in the heart of the park and is an ideal starting point for your adventure. From here, you can join many different trails (most are multiuse) that are perfect for exploring the area or simply circling the lake.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Monksville Dam

Highlight • Monument

Nice views and good break point to rest or take pictures especially if Skyline Dr is taken from Oakland since the climb is not easy (9% avg). Ringwood Ave is much easier.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Sterling Lake

Highlight • Lake

Sterling Lake offers beautiful views and a peaceful setting for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The trails around the lake provide easy-to-moderate hikes through wooded areas, with occasional wildlife sightings. A perfect place to relax and enjoy nature!

Tip by

Save

Surprise Lake

Highlight • Lake

Surprise Lake is a decently sized reservoir in Abraham Hewitt State Forest, but it's not nearly as big as its neighbor Greenwood Lake. Because it's a bit smaller, the lake sees fewer visitors than the larger reservoir and offers more privacy. This lake really sneaks up on you as you pop out of the trees.

Tip by

Save

The section of Appalachian Trail stretching from Pochuck Mountain State Forest to Wawayanda Lake isn't one of the more mountainous sections of trail, but it is as entertaining as any other piece of path. There are a couple boardwalk sections and bridges through some wetlands along with some sections of dense forest.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Upper Greenwood Lake.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Upper Greenwood Lake

Hiking around Upper Greenwood Lake

MTB Trails around Upper Greenwood Lake

Road Cycling Routes around Upper Greenwood Lake

Running Trails around Upper Greenwood Lake

Cycling around Upper Greenwood Lake

Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
January 22, 2025, Sterling Lake

Sterling Lake offers beautiful views and a peaceful setting for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The trails around the lake provide easy-to-moderate hikes through wooded areas, with occasional wildlife sightings. A perfect place to relax and enjoy nature!

0

0

The section of Appalachian Trail stretching from Pochuck Mountain State Forest to Wawayanda Lake isn't one of the more mountainous sections of trail, but it is as entertaining as any other piece of path. There are a couple boardwalk sections and bridges through some wetlands along with some sections of dense forest.

1

0

David Howells
February 7, 2024, Monksville Dam

You have a great view here out over Monksville Reservoir and the surrounding hills when you are crossing the dam on Stonetown Road. There is not much chance of being able to stop on the ride over, so just enjoy the ride or go to the car park on the northern end.

1

0

Javi Jaavii
January 21, 2024, Wawayanda Lake

Right next to a parking area, this beautiful lake is in the heart of the park and is an ideal starting point for your adventure. From here, you can join many different trails (most are multiuse) that are perfect for exploring the area or simply circling the lake.

1

0

Matthew
November 14, 2023, Surprise Lake

Surprise Lake is a decently sized reservoir in Abraham Hewitt State Forest, but it's not nearly as big as its neighbor Greenwood Lake. Because it's a bit smaller, the lake sees fewer visitors than the larger reservoir and offers more privacy. This lake really sneaks up on you as you pop out of the trees.

0

0

Ricky Chae
February 6, 2023, Monksville Dam

Nice views and good break point to rest or take pictures especially if Skyline Dr is taken from Oakland since the climb is not easy (9% avg). Ringwood Ave is much easier.

1

0

LadyDi
June 30, 2022, Wawayanda Lake

This spot offers awesome views of the Wawayanda Lake. The parking lot is just around the corner.

0

0

It's a beautiful lake, very popular with fishing enthusiasts.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore around Upper Greenwood Lake?

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Sterling Lake for beautiful views and peaceful settings, or discover Surprise Lake, a more private reservoir within Abraham Hewitt State Forest. The larger Wawayanda Lake in Wawayanda State Park is an excellent starting point for exploring numerous multi-use trails. The centerpiece, Upper Greenwood Lake itself, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Are there good hiking opportunities near Upper Greenwood Lake?

Yes, the area offers extensive trails. Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, bordering Upper Greenwood Lake, has trails for hiking, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. Wawayanda State Park also features 20 miles of the Appalachian Trail and multi-use trails around Wawayanda Lake. For specific routes, you can find many options in the easy hikes around Upper Greenwood Lake guide.

What are some family-friendly activities available?

Many attractions are suitable for families. Monksville Dam offers scenic views that are easy to enjoy. Both Wawayanda Lake and Sterling Lake are great for picnicking and gentle walks. Upper Greenwood Lake itself is ideal for water activities like swimming and paddle-boating. The UGLPOA Clubhouse and Beach also serve as a central point for summer activities.

Where can I find the best viewpoints in the area?

For scenic vistas, Monksville Dam provides excellent views over Monksville Reservoir and the surrounding hills. The Bearfort Ridge, which traverses the area, is known for its picturesque mountain views. Additionally, Wawayanda Lake and Sterling Lake offer beautiful, peaceful settings with great views of the water and surrounding forests.

Are there any historical points of interest around Upper Greenwood Lake?

The creation of Upper Greenwood Lake itself in 1932 by damming Long House Brook is a significant historical engineering feat. The community also has a rich past with historic taverns like the Turnpike Tavern (now Appalachian Restaurant) and the UGLPOA Clubhouse, which has been a social hub since the lake's early days. The Warwick Turnpike was also the primary route for early settlers.

What kind of outdoor sports can I do near Upper Greenwood Lake?

Beyond hiking, the area is excellent for various outdoor activities. Upper Greenwood Lake is perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and paddle-boating. You can also find numerous cycling routes, including challenging loops and easier rides around lakes. For runners, there are dedicated running trails, particularly around Wawayanda Lake.

What is the significance of Monksville Dam?

Monksville Dam is a notable man-made monument offering expansive views over the Monksville Reservoir and the surrounding hills. It's a popular spot for taking pictures, especially when crossing on Stonetown Road, and serves as a good break point for those cycling or driving through the area.

What makes Sterling Lake a good place to visit?

Sterling Lake is cherished for its beautiful views and tranquil atmosphere. It's a popular spot for fishing and picnicking, and the surrounding trails offer easy-to-moderate hikes through wooded areas, often with opportunities for wildlife sightings. It's a perfect place to relax and connect with nature.

Is there a less crowded lake option for visitors?

Yes, Surprise Lake, located in Abraham Hewitt State Forest, offers a more private experience. Being a bit smaller than other lakes in the region, it sees fewer visitors, providing a quieter setting for those looking to enjoy nature away from larger crowds.

What is the best time to visit Upper Greenwood Lake for outdoor activities?

The region is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for water sports on Upper Greenwood Lake and other nearby lakes. Winter provides opportunities for cross-country skiing in Abram S. Hewitt State Forest.

What is the main appeal of Greenwood Lake?

Greenwood Lake, which straddles the border between New York and New Jersey, has been a popular tourist destination for decades. It's known for its 7-mile length, numerous marinas, and restaurants along its shores, making it a vibrant spot for lakeside activities and dining.

Can I find trails suitable for beginners or easy walks?

Absolutely. The trails around Sterling Lake offer easy-to-moderate hikes through wooded areas. Wawayanda State Park also has many multi-use trails, some of which are suitable for easy walks, particularly those circling Wawayanda Lake. You can explore various easy options in the easy hikes around Upper Greenwood Lake guide.

Most popular routes around Upper Greenwood Lake

Hiking around Upper Greenwood Lake

Most popular attractions around Upper Greenwood Lake

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

RingwoodNorth HaledonWanaquePompton LakesCliftonPreaknessPines LakePassaicMacopinBloomingdalePatersonTotowaHawthorneWoodland ParkMontclair State UniversityHaledonProspect ParkWilliam Paterson University Of New JerseyGreat NotchSingacNewfoundlandHewittPackanack LakeRamapo Mountain State ForestRingwood State Park

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Abram S. Hewitt State Forest

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy