Ramapo Valley Reservation is a popular nature walking and hiking area. I love the many lakes, river and even waterfall that run alongside one of the paths.

If you have a fear of dogs, Ramapo Valley Reservation is not for you. It is a popular place for owners to walk their dogs. There are many, many dogs around although all dogs are on leashes.

I like to enter the trail from the far corner of the parking lot, the corner closest to the yellow service house. I follow the path over the bridge and continue alongside a beautiful lake.  At the end of the lake you can either turn right and continue around the lake or continue straight on an uphill path to the scenic reservoir up on top. The hike to the top is not very long but since it is uphill it is not very easy.

I love going up to the lake. About halfway to the reservoir there is a waterfall on the side of the path. There are narrow paths allowing access to the waterfalls. When we visited recently, there were people swimming in the cool refreshing water in a pool in middle of the waterfall. It is possible to take a stroller on the path (not down to the waterfall) but I would not recommend it since it is all uphill and would be difficult to push.

Posted: August 17, 2017

Information, prices and hours posted here are current as of the posted or updated date. It is advisable to call ahead or check online to confirm hours and prices.