Easy hikes and walks in Saddle River County Park
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Easy hiking trails in Saddle River County Park traverse a 577-acre linear park following the Saddle River and its tributaries. The landscape features several tranquil ponds, including Wild Duck Pond and Otto C. Pehle Lake, and a scenic waterfall in the Dunkerhook area. Hikers can explore both paved multi-use pathways and natural dirt trails winding through wooded sections and well-maintained lawns. The park offers varied terrain, generally flat but with some slight elevation changes.
Best easy hiking trails in Saddle River County Park
- The most popular easy hiking route is Saddle River County Park Bike Path, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes to complete. This paved pathway connects multiple sections of the park, offering a continuous experience.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Otto C. Pehle Lake Loop, an easy 0.9 miles (1.4 km) path. This route circles the tranquil Otto C. Pehle Lake, providing a short and accessible walk.
- Local hikers also love the Wild Duck Pond Pathway, a 0.5 miles (0.7 km) trail leading through the Wild Duck Pond area, often completed in about 11 minutes.
- Hiking in Saddle River County Park is defined by riverside pathways, tranquil ponds, and wooded corridors. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on accessible and easy routes.
- The routes in Saddle River County Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 12 reviews. More than 290 hikers have used komoot to explore Saddle River County Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
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1.39km
00:21
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Enjoy an easy 0.9-mile (1.4 km) hike around a tranquil lake, featuring a fountain and cherry blossoms, in Saddle River County Park.
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743m
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The Wild Duck Pond Pathway is an easy 0.5-mile hike around Wild Duck Pond in Ridgewood, New Jersey, perfect for families and dog walkers.
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590m
00:09
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Easy 0.4-mile hike on a paved path around Glen Rock Duck Pond in Saddle River County Park, perfect for a quick stroll.
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7.23km
01:49
10m
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Hike the easy 4.5-mile Saddle River County Park Bike Path, featuring a scenic waterfall, historic tower, and diverse park amenities.
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7.88km
01:59
10m
10m
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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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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The majority of the river courses through popular suburban areas. It earns its name from a river in Scotland near Saddell. This section of the river winds its way through several parks, offering a delightful view of the flowing waters from this point.
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This 577-acre linear park meanders along the Saddle River, offering stunning views along the way. The Saddle River Pathway runs throughout the park and continues further north if you want to extend your hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Saddle River County Park?
Saddle River County Park offers 24 easy hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for relaxed walks and gentle exploration. In total, there are 33 routes available across various difficulty levels.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
Yes, Saddle River County Park is very family-friendly. Many of the easy trails, such as the Wild Duck Pond Pathway (0.5 miles), are short and mostly flat, perfect for children. The park also features playgrounds and picnic areas in several sections, including the Wild Duck Pond Area and Glen Rock Area.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Saddle River County Park?
Yes, Saddle River County Park is dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. There is even a dedicated dog run in the Wild Duck Pond Area, providing a space for your canine companion to play off-leash.
Are there any circular routes for easy hikes?
Yes, the park offers several circular routes perfect for easy hikes. A popular option is the Otto C. Pehle Lake Loop, which is about 0.9 miles (1.4 km) long and circles the tranquil lake. Another great choice is the Saddle River loop from Saddle Brook, a 2.5-mile (4 km) route.
What interesting natural features or landmarks can I see along the trails?
The park is rich with natural beauty and points of interest. You can explore several tranquil ponds like Wild Duck Pond and Otto C. Pehle Lake. A scenic waterfall is located in the Dunkerhook area, which is a popular spot. Additionally, the historic Easton Tower (also known as 'The Mill') is a notable landmark within the park.
Are there paved paths suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, a significant feature of Saddle River County Park is its continuous paved multi-use pathway, stretching approximately 6 to 6.8 miles. This path connects all five sections of the park and is ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone seeking a smooth, accessible surface for their walk.
What is the longest easy trail in the park?
The longest easy trail is the Saddle River County Park Bike Path, which is approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) long. This paved pathway offers a continuous experience through various sections of the park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Saddle River County Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 12 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's well-maintained paved paths, the scenic riverside views, and the tranquil atmosphere of its ponds and wooded sections, making it a perfect escape for easy walks.
Is there parking available for hikers?
Yes, parking is available at various access points throughout the park's five sections. Each section, including the Wild Duck Pond Area, Glen Rock Area, Dunkerhook Area, Otto C. Pehle Area, and Rochelle Park Area, offers facilities and parking for visitors.
Can I reach Saddle River County Park using public transportation?
While the park is primarily accessed by car, some local bus routes may have stops near different sections of the park. For detailed public transportation options, it's best to consult local transit schedules or visit the official Bergen County Parks website for specific access points: bergencountynj.gov.
Are there any off-road or dirt trails for a more natural hiking experience?
Yes, in addition to the paved pathways, Saddle River County Park offers several off-road dirt trails that branch off into the woods. These trails provide a more natural hiking experience, with the longest being about 2 miles, allowing you to explore the park's wooded corridors.
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