We went bowling at Boonton Lanes on a warm fall day. We also wanted to catch some fresh air so we looked for a park in town. Grace Lord Park appeared to be a cute playground designed adorably with a nature vibe. The park does not have a parking lot so we parked across the street at the side of the gas station (with the permission of the attendant.) There is some street parking nearby if you can find a spot.

We entered the park through the path right by the playground. The playground looks new and up to date recreating a natural feel. The elements were fun for the kids to play on. It was so exciting to discover the fake squirrels and chipmunks peaking out of the fake trees.

A bit farther down the path is a large gazebo and signs with the history of the park and how the body of water was used to create canals for commerce in the 1800s.

The path then leads to a wooded area alongside the Rockaway River Gorge and a magnificent big waterfall.  A bridge over the water takes hikers to the other side of the River with large big boulders. The path continues alongside the river. We turned back and retraced our steps when we ran out of time. It is hard to believe that there is an area of raw nature in the citylike area.

Posted: June 20, 2022

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