Saddle River County Park wilderness guide
County Park · NJ

Saddle River County Park

Saddle River County Park offers a scenic, linear park experience along the Saddle River, featuring paved trails for biking, walking, and running, as well as fishing areas and picnic spots, making it a popular outdoor recreation destination in Bergen County, New Jersey.

County Park24004+ Trails

Designation

County Park

Total Wilderness Area

2400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Saddle River County Park

Saddle River County Park offers a scenic, linear park experience along the Saddle River, featuring paved trails for biking, walking, and running, as well as fishing areas and picnic spots, making it a popular outdoor recreation destination in Bergen County, New Jersey.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Saddle River County Park is a 2,400-acre linear park that stretches approximately 10 miles through Bergen County, New Jersey. The park follows the course of the Saddle River, providing a green corridor that connects multiple towns including Ridgewood, Paramus, Glen Rock, and Fair Lawn. Established in the late 1970s and managed by Bergen County Parks, it offers a mix of paved multi-use trails, natural wooded areas, meadows, and riverbanks. The park's paved trail system is particularly acclaimed for accessibility and is widely used by walkers, runners, cyclists, and families. Ecologically, the park supports diverse local wildlife, including various bird species, mammals such as white-tailed deer, and aquatic life in the river and ponds. Several designated fishing areas along the river make it attractive to anglers. Historical features include remnants of early mills and bridges that span sections of the river, offering a glimpse into the region’s past. Saddle River County Park also includes playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, appealing to families and recreational users. Its connectivity allows users to experience both natural settings and suburban environments. Visitors come for both active recreation and passive enjoyment of natural scenes along the river. The park is open year-round and offers safe routes for commuting cyclists as well as recreational users. Its blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and community integration makes it a valuable outdoor resource in the densely populated Bergen County area.

Field Guide · County Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Saddle River County Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Paved multi-use trail stretching over 10 miles along the Saddle River✦ Popular fishing spots along accessible riverbanks✦ Historic river crossings including old mill foundations✦ Family-friendly picnic and playground areas at multiple access points
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Saddle River County Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Biking

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Running

Available in Saddle River County Park
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Saddle River County Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Saddle River County Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Saddle River County Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Fair Lawn, New Jersey
⌖ 1.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fair Lawn, New Jersey

Fair Lawn, NJ offers easy-access hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities along the scenic Saddle River. With family-friendly parks, wildlife watching spots, and seasonal events, it’s a great stop for active travelers exploring Bergen County.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Paramus, New Jersey
⌖ 1.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paramus, New Jersey

Paramus offers easy access to green spaces with gentle hiking and biking trails, bird watching spots, and family-friendly parks. It’s a convenient place for locals and visitors to enjoy nature without leaving the suburban area.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Saddle Brook, New Jersey
⌖ 2.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saddle Brook, New Jersey

Saddle Brook, New Jersey offers accessible outdoor adventures with easy hiking, biking, and kayaking along the Saddle River. Enjoy fishing spots and peaceful parks perfect for family outings or quiet nature days close to the city.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Ridgewood, New Jersey
⌖ 3.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridgewood, New Jersey

Ridgewood, NJ offers accessible hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities surrounded by charming suburban parks and natural preserves. It’s a great spot for peaceful outdoor activities within easy reach of New York City.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Paterson, New Jersey
⌖ 3.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paterson, New Jersey

Paterson, New Jersey, blends urban adventure with rich industrial history. Enjoy hiking and biking at Garret Mountain Reservation, paddling on the Passaic River, and exploring the stunning Great Falls in a vibrant city setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hackensack, New Jersey
⌖ 4.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hackensack, New Jersey

Hackensack offers urban and suburban outdoor adventures with easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching along the Hackensack River and Bergen County Reservation. It’s a versatile base for exploring riverfront trails and regional green spaces.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Saddle River County Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.