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.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
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
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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