Garret Mountain Reservation — Attraction in Woodland Park

Located on 568 acres on Watchung Mountain Range in Paterson and Woodland Park, Garret Mountain Reservation is considered one of several National Natural Landmarks in New Jersey, reaching an elevation of 500 feet above sea level and providing visitors with a scenic slice of nature with grass fields, several miles of walking and running trails, basketball courts, and picnic areas.

For those into bird watching, this is a stopover point for migrating songbirds, including 35 species of warblers, numerous vireos, orioles, sparrows, and thrushes.

Believe it or not, there’s even an open field specifically designated to fly drones. Being one-way traffic, it forces one to see what this park has to offer as you drive through the road and make the loop.

We managed to find a parking spot this morning and walked from the Auto Overlook, getting an aerial view of Patterson and its surroundings, to Lambert Tower, with a partial view of Manhattan through the trees.

Since we last visited 2 years ago, renovations have been noticeable, such as new playgrounds by the Great Meadow, repairs to the Overlook walls, new signage throughout the park, and new facilities not yet finished by the Great Meadow. Lambert Castle and its surrounding area are closed for repairs. Weekdays are never crowded, but weekends and holidays draw crowds. We can recommend this place to escape and find...

I have been running at Garret Mountain for years! It's a great park and great for runners. Especially, if your looking to get in shape. This park has great dirt trails and a flat run on pavement that goes entirely around the mountain. Sure there are some roudy people there but no one bothers you. I don't know why there are complaints of trash because this place is pretty clean for the most part. It can get a little crowded on the weekends and maybe that's when you see some garbage but they keep this place pretty nice. Also, there's always police patrolling the grounds and I've recently noticed they have people on golf carts now circling the mountain for extra security which is nice. It's pretty safe but I've seen some sketchy people here and there which reminds me you can never be too safe. I usually stay on the outskirts where everyone walks but if I'm with a friend I like to go into the dirt trails. If you like wildlife this park has some beautiful birds and deer which I've seen every single time I'm there. In the fall you'll catch turkeys running around too. This place is beautiful! I recently moved which makes this park a little out of my way but I'm trying to fit this place back into my schedule because it's the only park I get a great workout. I've been to a few other parks in NJ but this is my favorite little gem. I hope this review...

Garret Mountain Reservation, situated in Woodland Park and Paterson, New Jersey, offers a serene escape into nature. Spanning 568 acres, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers firm, the park boasts well-maintained trails perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country running. The historic Lambert Castle and Lambert Tower add a touch of history and charm to the scenic landscape.

The park’s fresh air and natural beauty provide a refreshing retreat from urban life. Barbour Pond is a highlight, offering opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. The picnic areas are spacious and inviting, making them ideal for family gatherings or a peaceful lunch in nature. The park is dog-friendly, as long as pets are leashed, so your furry friends can join in on the fun too.

One notable aspect is the stunning views of Paterson and the New York City skyline, which can be seen from various points in the park. However, it can get quite busy during weekends, which may lead to crowded trails and picnic spots. Despite this, Garret Mountain Reservation remains a top choice for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities and scenic beauty within a historic and...