If you're up for a challenging hike this is a place for you! I must say my friends and I were not expecting a strenuous hike but oh boy were we wrong. We practically hiked from point to the other. We took a few wrong trails (trail C to D to A ) but finally ended up where we wanted to be on trail W (white trail) which is right along the water. We went through the Peanut Leap Cascade and came across the Giant Stairs. Man were those boulders no joke! We hiked through the beautiful forest view and up the the B/W (blue and white trail) in where we nearly died hiking up multiple steps. The B/W trail is a steep incline. If you want a challenging hike start where we began. Going down B/W is easier than going up... Trust me. In the end.. So worth the 4 hour hike! read more

One of the best hiking spots in Jersey if you still want to stay close to the city and civilization. It's the one thing that makes living in Jersey worth every penny. You can see many iconic architecture while enjoying the Hudson River when hiking by the water. If you want a more secluded middle of nowhere feeling just hike 15 minutes inland and you'll be surrounded by greenery in no time. Best of all you can enjoy great Korean food just minutes away after the hike near fort lee. read more

Best park in NJ I have ever been. I love walking up and down the park. It is a big park with several places to visit and relax. Also there are hiking areas near the river which is worth trying. If going to Palisades Interstate Park State Line Lookout, do the Rock Scramble. My favorite in NJ is the Rock Scramble. Which is one of the best experience of my life. It is somewhat difficult, but even a beginner can do it. However, make sure to bring lots of water and good footwear. Only other advice is to have fun. Oh, and expect 3 hours of hike, if doing the rock scramble. read more

Great find! We were actually heading towards Bear Mountain, but decided to stop by for the scenic view. We didn't get the best weather, but view was amazing. It was pretty late in the season, so not much foliage left. The leaves on the floor makes up a nice trail, which is nice in its own way. A couple of good trails to choose from. Trail E is relatively easy until it gets near the Hudson again If you get hungry, there is a dainty cafe with the usual burger/hot dog and drinks. Family-friendly. Definitely recommend! read more

Although the views and trails are beautiful, I do not recommend this hike for beginner hikers. My boyfriend, who has been on a few hikes before, and I, who have never hiked before, intended to go on the shortest hike advertised, and not only ended up on the longer trail (both of which we thought were loops back to the parking lot), but instead ended up six miles in a straight line in the opposite direction of the parking lot. It took us about six hours to get back. We specifically chose the short trail because it was advertised as easier, but also to avoid the rocky beach. We ended up having to climb the rocks, where I fell and cut my arms and ankles. As beginner hikers, it was extremely difficult to keep track of where we were going, and became physically challenging. Aside from that, I brought my camera and captured hundreds of beautiful views throughout the hike. We saw butterflies, falcons, deer, and snakes. The waterfall that leads down to the Hudson river was beautiful, and after we got past the rocks, the trail was relatively flat and easy. There was plenty of free parking and picnic tables to eat. read more

Clinton Point Hike (8 miles - moderate) We started our hike from the Ross Dock Picnic Area, which added just under two additional miles to the 8 miles the guide lists for this hike*. The first half of the hike was along the Shore Trail (white blaze) on the Hudson River with nice views of the city and various geese with their goslings (cute). Along this portion of the trail we saw ground hogs and some kind of bird that looked like a turkey vulture or something. The trail itself was extremely buggy and the vegetation was not well trimmed. I can not emphasize how buggy this part of the trail is: a million little green caterpillars and their webs, everywhere. In your eyes. In your hair. In your mouth. On your back. Everywhere. I think this part of the trail is about 4-5 miles of caterpillars. Along the way there are spots marked on the trail map as ruins, but nothing was particularly interesting. At Huylers Dock we switched to the Huyler's Landing Trail (red blaze) which includes the ascent to the top of the Palisades. Once on top you start the Long Path Trail (aqua blaze) which will take you back south towards where you started the hike, but you're walking on the cliff this time. There are two or three nice overlooks on this trail (High Tom's is accessible via car as well), but even with these overlooks, this is one of the least enjoyable trails I've ever hiked. This part of the trail is trimmed a little better than the Shore Trail, but it is very uninteresting. To your left there is a chain link fence marking the private Greenbrook Sanctuary, and to your right is the highway (only a few feet away). If you're looking to get away from it all, I don't think staring at a chain link fence and a highway (as well as hearing the highway) is going to cut it. A little past High Tom's scenic overlook, take the Dyckman Hill Trail (yellow blaze) which will bring you back down to the river and the parking lots. A few waterfalls where mentioned in the trail guide, but the best one we saw was on the Dyckman Trail, right before the never ending and steep stone stairs. The piece de resistance of this hike was the tick bite I received. I wore long pants, but neglected to tuck into my socks, which I heartily recommend doing in this park. Also, as the brush is unruly everywhere, I suggest wearing a hat and making sure you keep your arms covered as well. Maybe the tick bite would have been worth it for a great view, but not to hike next to the highway. *I should mention that going by the trail guide, we should have hiked a total of 10 miles, but everyone's phones (using different apps) clocked it at around 12 miles, and we never deviated from the trail or got lost. read more

See all

Still 5 stars but I was scrolling through some of my old reviews & thought why not update this one; esp with all the Protect the Palisades business going on. So obviously I still love this place & is still 1 of 2 of my favorite hikes in NJ. If you're feeling adventurous do an off trail rock scramble. If you don't know what this means then don't try to figure it out b/c you shouldn't do it anyway (^_-) read more

I come hiking here a couple times a month and I am always left breathless from the views. There's is plenty of parking at the boat basin, but beware they do charge for parking between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The hike up the cliffs is somewhat strenuous but the views are worth it. Once up top the trails are very easy, great for running. I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an easy afternoon in nature. read more

Love this place! Right in my own backyard! I did a 15 mile hike and a 600+ feet climb up and down the mountain. read more

See all

I'm astounded that these awesome trails are right over the bridge. I did the shore trail (white blaze) along the river from the Ross Deck Picnic Area to Canoe Beach. This is a very easy trail, which offers pretty views of the Hudson and the GW. Hiking is one of my favorite fall activities. However, during my short trip to the Palisades, I wasn't really up for a strenuous hike so chose the shore trail. I found this trail to be extremely easy. While I enjoyed the views, I would have preferred a little more difficulty. Will definitely be going back to the park to explore the more difficult trails i.e. the long path trail. read more

See all

Great hiking trail with beautiful views of the city right across the Hudson River. Come prepared with sturdy walking/ hiking shoes as the paths are very natural (rocks, soil, tree roots) with the occasional wooden plank bridges to cross over small streams. It can sometimes get tricky to find the trail, especially during the rocky portions of the trails. Keep an eye out for green marks on the trees to stay on track. During a hike, my fiancé lost some keys and we were unable to find them, though we went back several times. Keep important valuables in your car or a deep pocket! read more

Absolutely stunning coastal roadways, parks and picnic areas. One of the most beautiful views of new york can be found along here : Alpine lookout. Drive along the boat basin picnic areas to have lunch with your friends, family or loved ones. Rustic walkways and paths along the coast line. Also note that there are incredible trails along the palisades cliffs - truly amazing experience. Especially the drive under the GW bridge - such an amazing view, truly breath taking. Well worth an outing with the family, love ones on a nice warm day ( closed when climate / road conditions due not permit driving ). Great way to spend time with family, romantic evening with your loved ones and great place to take kids to see nature. Highly recommend if you are in the area, worth a detour. Tips : 1) If you are heading towards new york via palisades parkway and there is traffic leading up to GW bridge, a great detour is taking the hudson drive along the water basin : you wind up exiting by Fort Lee into GW bridge and avoid all traffic. 2) Watch out for pedestrians : drive slowly because people are walking and running on the roadways : despite its scenic beauty lots of people frequenting the area so drive at low speeds. 3) Also please note that during peak season they charge for parking if you plan to picnic by the boat basin overlooking washington heights. 4) At the top is Fort Lee Historical park ( has a great view of the hudson river ) read more

Who knew you were able to hike the Palisades - I sure didn't. All those years crossing the George Washington Bridge over to NJ, I'd be enamored by the vertical cliffs rising from the Hudson River. This time around, I got to climb it. The Park features trails for hiking, cross country skiing, picnic areas, landmarks, boating and various look out points. With various trail hikes to choose from you may adjust your trip from 3 -10 miles. Starting at the State Lookout Line my group decided to do a 5 mile loop down to the Shore Trail & back to the cars via the Long Trail which sounds easy enough, except the "Giant Stairs" include 1 whole mile of rock scrambling up, down & across boulders that have fallen down the cliffs over 1000s of years. After the strenuous journey across you will find yourself at the Peanut Loop Cascade where you can enjoy a waterfall or a seat on a man-made swing attached to a tree along the river's edge - yes a swing! Although it's a nice place to relax, you'll soon be back on your feet for the ascent back up to the top of the cliff and back to the lot. Being so close to NYC, you wouldn't expect such a wild & beautiful setting a short drive from home. The varied plant life that call the Palisades home display vibrant multiple colors in Autumn, more so than what I had seen upstate. The rewards from traversing some unforgiving terrain are the breathtaking views along the cliff's edge but also serve as a reminder of how small we really are up against nature's beauty. --------------------------- - Parking is free this time of year - There are bathrooms at the State Line Cafe - Although none were spotted, we were warned to watch out for snakes! read more

See all

Simple pleasures are the best! (This one is for Jahmal). The Palisades Interstate Park is so unassuming most people drive by without giving it a seconds glance. Make no mistake, if you like being outside this spot is a solid 5 You can Bike it, Hike it or just chill. Pick a nice day...get your rusty butt off the sofa and go out and play. It also helps that two of my favorite friends, Flora and Fauna, are there in full effect and on the regular, so camera heads do come ready. Need to relax, that's not a problem. The vista's will move you. Just pack up a Lil something and come gawk, gaze and snack. Feel like sweating? You know, they COULD have call it Palisades Interstate "Cardio" Park. After you spend a little time on the trails you WILL feel the burn. See, I thought I was slick reciently when I opted to take the 3 mile route instead of the 5 mile. C'hile Please! "Stair Masters ain't got nuthin on PIP! (Said a La Denzel in Training Day). A brutha found out just how young he's not. You can pretty much have any type of time you'd like here. Allow me to share one of MY favorite times at PIP. Back when my nephews was youngheads I dropped by my sista's house, woke them up early and said, "Come on I'm-a take y'all to see something. "Where we going Unc? They asked. "Come and you'll see. I replied and left it right there. Always up for an adventure, my little road dogs started scampering. Teeth were brushed and clothes put on quick, fast and in a hurry. Sleepy eyes brightened up right away, as they got ready and jumped in my ride right. We arrived, I parked in the municipal lot across the way, grabbed my backpack off the back seat and said come on let's go guys. We walked to the park on the low. The older: "Why are we here Unc? The younger: "Yeah! Why are you showing us trees? (Oh yeah, the younger is was a little smart ass). Me: I laughed and replied, "It's more then just trees. "Come on get ta-stepin, we going up there. Said as I pointed to the ridge. The older: I'm hungry The younger: I'm cold. Me: Don't worry we will eat at the top. And I have something that will warm us up. We reached the top and found a spot to sit. I broke out the thermos I had filled with hot chocolate and poured and passed out the cups. The three of was sat quietly as we drank and ate Bagels. Then it happened, the sun began to peak over the skyline of the city. The older: Wow! Look at that Unc! The younger: It's just the sun. Me: Looks kinda nice right! Both older and younger: Yeah it does! We sat there as the sun cleared the skyline. Finished the rest of our snack then made our way back to the car. The younger was holding my hand. He looked up at me and said, I thought you wanted to show us something Unc?!? I just did. His mouth twisted into that sly smile of his and he said, "You tricked us! Did I? He just shrugged his shoulders. We drove back home and I cooked us breakfast. We went to PIP several times that summer. Hiked all over, rode our bikes, took pictures and all that! Over the years the three of us spent a lot of time on the go, doing and seeing many different places. Always up for an adventure, always having lots fun along the way. My nephews are both older now. The younger has a son of his own, Jaden. He calls me Big Unc. The younger called me towards the end of the summer and told me something that was the insparation for this review. "What up Unc! ( Said with mad base in his voice and sounding a lot like his grandfather). "I took Jaden to the Palisades this morning...and...We watched the sunrise. We drank hot chocolate and everything. I could tell my nephew had a smile on his face. He paused a second waiting for me to respond. I'm sure he both heard and felt my smile over the line. Then he added, Jaden said, "I like that Dad! As he watched the sunhrise. "How did you find this place? "Back when I was your age, Big Unc took me and your uncle here too. Maaan, I smiled the rest of the day. When it's all said and done, it's really all about the love you share. Fin read more

I've been coming to this park since I was a little kid. When I was younger I usually just went to the Ross Dock area which is just north of the GWB. Back then we would go crabbing or have a picnic. I've since had the opportunity to explore a lot more of the park. It is truly a beautiful place to explore if you like being outdoors. I also am a member of Greenbrook Sanctuary, which is a paid, members-only area of the park located off of 9W near Alpine. The Sanctuary, has nice trails, a lake, streams and they also have weekly hikes and other Programs. The PIP is a beautiful place to spend the day hiking and enjoying the views of NY. read more

I came here to do the Giant Steps hike. I came with a friend who did it before, so we just followed him (I know the last trail we took was E). There's a waterfall and a swing by the water that's part of the hike, and there are lots of rocks to climb as part of the trail. Unfortunately for me, the weather suddenly started raining when I came here, so the hike wasn't super enjoyable. I definitely do want to come back in good weather though, because I know it would be a good hike! You start at the top, where the lookout is, and then walk down first. Then, it's pretty flat for a while (and many rocks to climb, as well as getting right by the water), and then towards the end the trail slopes up back to the parking lot. Free parking and lots of parking too! Definitely recommend. It's pretty shaded too, so it would be fine for a hot summer day! read more

Back in April I went on my first hike of the year. This park was relatively really close to the city, so it wasn't hard to get to at all. As I am still an inexperienced hiker, I didn't know what to expect. I went down this trail call the Giant Stairs and it was a little scary for me because I know I am a klutz and I may end up rolling down instead. After completing that section, I found out there were some rock scrambling involved with a warning side. Gee...maybe turning back now wouldn't be a bad idea right? I guess I'll tough it up and see how out of shape I am. So climbing over rocks wasn't that hard, but I did realize it's not that I am too out of shape it's more like my legs were too short. Some rocks were so big that I had trouble reaching to the next rock, but I managed going through the entire rock scramble without killing myself. True I did bang up my knee and scraped my hand, but those were true battle scars! I guess I was lucky I did this hike back in April because in May, there was a rockslide, which closed off 2 miles of the trail. I wouldn't mind going back here for another hike. This hike is really just the beginning for me, which leads to many more! read more

Only saw the southernmost tip, but thoroughly enjoy the Carpenter's Trail (leading down to the Hudson river) and the Shore Trail (following the river all the way to the entrance to Edgewater. read more

Very beautiful area to bike. The trail is very long and lots up and down hills, many trees to help you prevent sun burn if you don't like to get dark. It's good way of challenge ride and nice view. Bathroom is convenience if you always needs to go. The police station is bathroom friendly, go for it. Parking is $5 in the weekend and holiday because lots people BBQ over there. So while you bike, you can smell some tasty meat for double joy. This place is good for hiker too! read more

On a good hiking day my friends and I went to Palisades Interstate Park for a hike. As a first time hiker I didn't know what to except. The hiking trail begins with walking then going down these stairs. It might seem steep but take your time and walk down the stairs. You will approach a warning sign about difficult rock scramble for experienced hikers but if I was able to do the rock scramble you could too. Just be very careful and climb over the rocks, using the rocks for support and pushing off to another rock. Along the way you will see a swing and a waterfall. Afterwards you hike up to return to the parking lot. There are white dots on trees and rocks to guide you to the right path at this hike trail. read more

See all

Most of the people who come to PIP come for the hiking trails, but I make extensive use of the paved road for cycling. This park offers some of the most fantastic scenery for road cyclists in the entire NYC/North Jersey area. The paved road that runs through this park is shared by cars, but the motor traffic is not heavy. Be warned: This is not really a beginners trail....lots of up and down....you need to be in good shape. The park requires that cyclists use helmets and bikes with wheels which are minimum of 24". The only bad thing I can say about this park is that it's favored by "serious" cyclists...you know, the dudes riding $5K bikes, dressed up like Lance Armstrong....they can get rude if they think you're in their way, so keep to the right unless you are trying to pass someone. read more

I rode my bike through this park near the final stretch of a 60+ mile charity fund raiser. The breathtaking scenery was a nice distraction from the ride and I almost forgot for a few minutes about my physical suffering. I'm surprised there aren't more reviews; it's such a beautiful place and so close to the city. I'd be here on a regular basis if I lived nearby. A steep climb if you're looking for a decent challenge on your road bike with hardly any traffic; also a great spot for a hike or picnic. read more

Palisades Interstate Park Commission - Hiking Near Me - Alpine, New Jersey

Closter Landing Loop (with "Millionaire's Row") Relatively easy, quiet path along the Hudson River turns into a moderate climb up towards the noisy Palisades Parkway. This is the first time I've ever gone hiking and didn't get lost. Says a lot about how this park is laid out! Paths are clearly cut out with signs and markings every place you need them to be. Stretches of very jagged rocky trail with a few loose rocks. I would suggest boots to prevent turning ankles. Otherwise, nothing too dangerous. Scenes across the Hudson are calm, if not a little boring. Sorry Yonkers! :( A few ruins of old buildings and Lookout point have a bit of photographing opportunity. Overall, come here for a light, relaxing workout with easy accessibility and friendly people. read more

This is a beautiful park. I've been there a few times during the course of the last 25+ years. There is a path to walk and/or go for a bike ride, as well as, a dock to go get skiing, etc. There are also picnic tables, and grills available for use. Each car load of people is $10.00 to enter, if someone 65 or over is in the car it is free. There are restrooms on premise, and they rent out additional grills, and sell ice cream. There is also a playground area. Wonderful place to spend the day with the family. read more

This park is really spectacular and accessible both to people with and without vehicles due ot the ability to walk across the GWB bridge. The land area of the park is large, stretching beyon the New Jersey - New York border along the Hudson River. I enjoyed the easier path from the GWB area. I always plan ahead when hiking and decided on my route ahead of time. Maps from the NY NJ Trail Commission are very useful. For those with iphones, snapping a picture of the posted maps and directions is not a bad idea. Verdict: This is a beautiful, large park next to the Hudson River, which is truly worth exploring. read more

Absolutely dirty and polluted is all I can say. The parks and trails are littered (this time of the year), and theres just too many people throwing garbage everywhere because they're too busy having humangous family picnics. There's lots of port-a-potties around, theyre always opened and if you go on a windy day....well good luck with that. Go to Tuxedo Park or further North for trails and nature if you have to be on the NJ side. read more

See all

I was here yesterday and I had a rather frustrating experience... not only did the address in GPS did not take us to the entrance to the park but road was closed due to "construction". None of the workers knew how we would get into the park and told us we should park outside the park and walk in. Needless to stay it was a 30 minute walk from where we parked just to get to the center of one of the picnic areas. We couldn't enjoy any of the trails or sights because no one was around to help direct us to the Peanut trail we were looking for. We did enjoy a walk under the GWB but other than that I was a little upset. I was really looking forward to a good hike but the trails are not easily marked. I will be back when the weather is warm and try again. read more

I absolutely love the Palisades area - very scenic, beautiful and a romantic area too. Great place to enjoy a leisure day, have a picnic (plenty in the area and along the path) and not difficult to find either. We hiked along the Closter landing trail and saw a few pretty waterfalls. Unfortunately, the storm has caused the toppling of many trees so a few of our paths were blocked. read more

Came here for a hike and picnic with friends! I would definitely check this place out! The park is a nice get away from the hustle and bustle of NYC but just close enough to hop on a $2 bus to take the A train back to Midtown. I enjoyed the picnic areas, clean bathrooms w/hand sanitizer, and short trails. You can also get an awesome view of the Hudson River and George Washington Bridge! If you're looking to BBQ, the park provides the grill so you just gotta bring the charcoal! read more

Palisades Interstate Park Commission - George Washington Bridge and Hudson River - Hiking Near Me - Alpine, New Jersey

Unfortunately the trail was closed off but me and my friend decided to walk along the coastal line. It was absolutely stunning!! There's an incredible scenic view of New York City and must stop here to take a pic of GWB!! read more

Very delay review. This was an amazing hike about 2 years ago, with amazing views. We drove up here with another couple. We didn't do the giant steps because they were closed and it was my first hike anyways. Part of the hike was easy, but there were parts that were single file down steep steps. We got down to the bottom and walked along the water for a bit. As we stopped to admire the view and talking.. Getting a bit of rest . One of the guys nonchalantly told me to come over to him, and we were all confused . Didn't realize it until afterwards that there was a snake right behind me chilling by the branches and leaves lol. That scared me shitless but made us laugh too. It was a great workout with amazing views. What else could you ask for. Can't wait to go back soon read more

Palisades Interstate Park Commission - Hiking Near Me - Alpine, New Jersey

See all

I was really impressed with the trails here. A few friends and I did the Giant Stairs hike to Peanut Leap loop. Im a moderate hiker, but I found it pretty tough. It's a good hour and a half of straight rock climbing. The views are amazing. If you take the route we did (recommended by the guide at the cafe) you start on the top of the cliff, descend to the river front, rock climb along the water, then ascend less steeply to the road and you're back at the cafe. We went on a really beautiful day and the path wasn't too crowded. There were plenty of times when we were the only group on the trail. Worth it if you're up for some rock climbing! read more

KIll the hills on your bike. BBQ at the boat basins. Go fishing in the River. Take a hike. Gaze at the views of the city.

Great park! Loved the trail & view along the hiking path! Will come back again. The autumn time was great with so many colorful leaves all around. the trip more amazing to admire the whole time! read more

Beautiful and well maintained park. This is my favorite afternoon walk spot with my dog. It has nice view of GWB and the city. Has picnic areas and plenty of benches to seat and enjoy the view. Weekday season parking pass is $30 (From may to October). read more

While waiting in traffic of the Gowanus Highway/Parking Lot on my way Stom King, I had a change of heart and decided to go to Palisades instead. Took the aqua blaze/long trail until the Women's Federation and then I descended on the blue&white blaze/forest trail to descend down to the white blaze/shore trail to get back to my car. The hike itself was okay, nothing too crazy. Along the long trail, there were a few off the beaten paths that put you onto outlooks with a view of the hudson and even a peek of the city if you looked hard enough. My issue with the hike, especially at the long trail was that I was basically next to the highway the entire time. So I could hear oncoming traffic the entire time. read more

I went for a nice little hike in Alpine. It was chilly and cloudy so there wasn't much to see. The cold sent me back indoors for some warmth. I'll need to comeback when the weather is nicer. read more

Great place to go for a road ride (if not Sunday in NYC) to avoid many cars. Easy ride over the GWB and south on River Road. Some cars, but not many. Great view across the Hudson too. GREAT place to get some hill repeats in : running OR cycling. It does get cold here (shaded road) so make sure to wear legs/arms if you're riding...otherwise those killer downhills? BRRRrrr! read more

Amazing bike ride!! The view of Manhattan from the area north of the GW Bridge is "like the Sausalito of NYC".

'twas a beautiful day for a leisure walk! the area is really serene and peaceful (granted it was a wednesday morning). it's nice to go and get some fresh air while being surrounded by nature. they also have a pretty clean bathroom. highly recommended! read more

See all