Ramapo Valley County Reservation — Attraction in Mahwah

3 1/2 stars

Depending on where you hike in Ramapo, your experience can and likely will vary dramatically. My preferred area is over by the Van Slyke Castle Ruins (which I believe is actually a different area/park - Ramapo Mountain State Forest), and that was actually our intention when we set out. For some bizarre reason though (and I'm not sure if this is the call of the park, the town of Ringwood, etc.) the parking situation over there is laughably bad and it's difficult to secure a spot if you're not there before 8:30am on a nice day. We ended up in the "main" area by the college, which was perfectly pleasant but had its issues.

We showed up in the main parking lot off 202 probably around 9:15am. It was PACKED. My biggest pet peeve with this park is that it's insanely crowded; it's by far the best known hiking area in this section of Bergen County if you're not able or willing to cross the state line into Harriman, AND it has a lot of flat trails so literally any type of hiker regardless of skill set can handle this, depending on which paths they choose to take. That's arguably a selling point, but I prefer less people and more inclines.

We needed to do at least five miles, and we got close to six. From the parking lot, we went right on the purple/pond loop, then up on the yellow/vista loop which curved down to the MacMillan Reservoir. At the Reservoir, we took another right on the pink/reservoir loop (lot of loops), circumventing the entire body of water before heading back on the blue/vista ridge connector (the only non-loop). The pond by the parking lot was probably my least favorite part - it's nice to look at, especially on a day like this with close to peak fall foliage - but it was swarmed with people. Based on what I saw, I think a majority of visitors just hang out over here and never venture into the woodsier sections, which was fine by me. The climb up to Hawk Rock isn't too challenging if you're in decent shape. We brought our Hiking Canine Chum Atlas for his hiking debut, so we took it very slowly on his behalf but I'd say you're getting an incline of maybe 500 feet, with a lot of plateaus in there to catch your breath. The view is pretty decent, but not on par with the 360-degree views in nearby Norvin Green or Harriman, which also have the benefit of higher altitude.

The Reservoir area is pleasant; it's quieter than the pond, which makes sense since it requires an additional mile or so of mileage to get there, but it still had a lot of people basking on the large rocks by the water. We met a very polite lab mix named Bones, who somehow was the only canine chum we received a formal introduction to - you'd think having our own rental pooch would have meant an increase in names, but alas.

The trail maintenance was excellent, as were the accompanying markings. I don't recall any issues actively searching for the path - it was always located within five seconds, which is one of the positives of having a popular hiking area. The wildlife sightings were pretty non-existent, which isn't surprising.

Not my favorite, but Ramapo has its selling points. I know a lot of people (many graduates from the nearby college) who swear by this area, so it really depends on what you're specifically looking for out of a hiking experience. For me, I want better views and...

This is a treasure for locals in Bergen County. These trails are great for hikers of many levels. The atmosphere is good and the reservation is generally kept very clean by its patrons, which range in all ages. You see parents with their young children, and even run into some septuagenarian hikers. The trails are well-marked, and there are a few good lookouts in which you can see from the Ramapo Valley all the way to the New York City skyline. The people you run into on your hike usually greet you with friendly hellos. There are many dogs that come along for the hikes. Although there is a requirement that dogs remain leashed, not everyone complies with this. If you or someone in your party, particularly a child, has a fear of dogs, then this could make for some uncomfortable moments. However, in my many hikes there, I cannot recall a single instance of an unleashed dog doing anything more than wandering in the direction of someone who otherwise would have preferred them not to. The main attractions are First Lake and Second Lake, and the names make sense based on the order in which you encounter them. First Lake greets you as soon as you're on the main trail from the parking lot area. If your fitness level is for flat ground only, you surely can walk around First Lake. If you want more, then there is a rapid elevation on the main path, toward Second Lake, that should increase your heart rate a bit before it reduces to a gradual incline. The main trail toward Second Lake is quite often over pavement, making it an easier push for strollers after the initial incline, and allowing more for sure-foot walking than dirt-path hiking. Once at Second Lake, if there are mild temperatures, then expect to see dogs in the water. The canines are just a small part of the wonderful year-round scenery in that spot. From Second Lake, there are further trails that loop back to the parking lot area. A couple of trails can link to Ringwood trails and satisfy hikers looking for longer excursions. If that suits you, then plan ahead, with transportation available at the end opposite from whence you start, since these hikes are roughly nine miles long, and the parks close around sundown. Bring your own water, and...

This is my absolute favorite hiking course, and I find myself coming back here in all four seasons. It's conveniently located about a 40-45 minute drive from my home, making it my go-to spot whenever I need a nature fix.

As a dog owner, its biggest draw is how incredibly dog-friendly it is. You will always see many other people walking their dogs, creating a wonderful, lively atmosphere.

The trails are fantastic and diverse. You can hike them in any direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise) and easily create your own route. Whether you want a quick 1-hour walk or a more strenuous 2.5-3 hour hike, the park has options for everyone. The trails along MacMillan Brook are especially lovely.

The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. Autumn foliage is stunning, and if you come in the early morning, you're sometimes treated to a beautiful, mystical fog over the water. After a good rain, the waterfall flowing from the MacMillan Reservoir is quite full and impressive—a real highlight.

This place is teeming with life. I've seen a very large snake here in the summer (a sign of a healthy ecosystem!). The Scarlet Oak Pond is beautifully scenic, and you'll often see many anglers fishing in the nearby Ramapo River. A quick tip for first-timers: Weekends are extremely popular, and parking can be a real challenge, so try to come early. Weekdays are much more peaceful and quiet.

For amenities, there are several portable toilets, but I've always found them to be surprisingly clean and well-maintained. I've also heard camping is available by reservation near Scarlet Oak Pond, though I've personally never seen anyone camping.

Overall, this is a top-tier reservation with something for everyone. Highly recommended for any hiker, especially...