Norvin Green State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · NJ

Norvin Green State Forest

Norvin Green State Forest is a picturesque forest known for its rugged terrain, panoramic views, and diverse hiking trails in northern New Jersey.

State Forest5,4164+ Trails
DesignationState Forest
Total Wilderness Area5,416
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Norvin Green State Forest

Norvin Green State Forest is a picturesque forest known for its rugged terrain, panoramic views, and diverse hiking trails in northern New Jersey.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Norvin Green State Forest boasts vibrant ecosystems across its rugged terrain dotted with rocky ridges and densely wooded hills. Located in the Highlands of northern New Jersey, it offers a mix of challenging and easy trails that attract hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts. The state's unique serpentine soil supports diverse plant species, while its forested areas provide a habitat for deer, foxes, and countless bird species. Historically, it bears remnants of its past through old mining sites and heritage ruins scattered throughout. Norvin Green is popular for its recreational activities, particularly hiking, with trails leading to stunning overlooks such as Wyanokie High Point and Carris Hill, offering sweeping views of the New York skyline in the distance. The park remains a favorite for both locals and visitors, providing an escape into nature without venturing far from the urban hustle.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Norvin Green State Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wyanokie High Point with views of New York City✦ Varied ecosystems home to diverse flora and fauna✦ Historic remnants from the region's mining past✦ Secluded hiking trails with picturesque landscapes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Norvin Green State Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Norvin Green State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Norvin Green State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Norvin Green State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Norvin Green State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required for entry.

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 Norvin Green State Forest

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

Wanaque, New Jersey
⌖ 3.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wanaque, New Jersey

Wanaque, NJ presents a serene escape filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and bird watching. Nestled among beautiful reservoirs and forests, it's a nature lover's haven.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Bloomingdale, New Jersey
⌖ 3.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bloomingdale, New Jersey

Bloomingdale, NJ, provides easy access to quiet hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in the scenic New Jersey Highlands. Ideal for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful forest trails and reservoir paddling just outside suburban life.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
⌖ 4.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pompton Lakes, New Jersey

Pompton Lakes, NJ offers a calm outdoor retreat with its tranquil lake, lush preserves, and versatile trails. Ideal for kayaking, fishing, and woodland hikes, it's a refreshing nature getaway near the metro area.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
West Milford, New Jersey
⌖ 5.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Milford, New Jersey

West Milford, NJ, offers outdoor enthusiasts a rugged playground of forests, lakes, and trails just an hour from NYC. Hike scenic ridges, paddle quiet lakes, and camp under starlit skies in this underrated Highlands retreat.

Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Oakland, New Jersey
⌖ 5.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oakland, New Jersey

Oakland is a Northern New Jersey town offering forested hiking trails, mountain biking routes, paddling spots, and winter skiing nearby. Located near Ramapo Mountain State Forest, it’s a practical base for exploring scenic highlands year-round.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Kingwood, New Jersey
⌖ 6.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kingwood, New Jersey

Kingwood, NJ is a peaceful rural town offering hiking, biking, paddling, and cross-country skiing in natural settings along the Delaware River and local parks. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet trails and water adventures.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Norvin Green State Forest

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

Western Themed Rage Room • 15-20 Minute Packages
ADVEXPEDITION
Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
Axe ThrowingADV Bookable

Western Themed Rage Room • 15-20 Minute Packages

Step into a Wild West saloon and smash away stress at Escape Room NJ in Pompton Lakes. This thrilling 15-20 minute rage room session offers a unique and safe way to let loose and have fun.

Axe ThrowingStarting at $70 • 1-30 People per GroupCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Human Bumper Balls
ADVEXPEDITION
Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
AttractionADV Bookable

Human Bumper Balls

Bounce, roll, and laugh your way through 35 to 45 minutes of unique, inflatable fun at Human Bumper Balls in Pompton Lakes, NJ. Bring up to 15 friends and make memories you won’t forget!

AttractionStarting at $30 • 35 to 45 MinutesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Hatchet House NJ
ADVEXPEDITION
Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
Axe ThrowingADV Bookable

Hatchet House NJ

Ready to try axe throwing? Hatchet House NJ in Pompton Lakes offers a thrilling, competitive experience perfect for groups of all kinds. Step up, aim true, and enjoy nonstop fun!

Axe ThrowingStarting at $150Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Pie & Baked Goods Sale
ADVEXPEDITION
Wayne, New Jersey
FarmADV Bookable

Pie & Baked Goods Sale

Taste northern New Jersey’s freshest homemade pies and baked goods at Farms View Roadstand in Wayne. Join this private sale for an exclusive selection of local flavors everyone will enjoy!

FarmClick "Book" to reserve your pickup day! • Check out all the new options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Birthday Party- Barnyard Bash
ADVEXPEDITION
Wyckoff, New Jersey
FarmADV Bookable

Birthday Party- Barnyard Bash

Host a Barnyard Bash birthday party at Abma's Farm in Wyckoff, NJ, featuring pony rides, animal feeding, and homemade treats for a fun, family-friendly celebration.

FarmMay-Sept. • 1.5 Hours • Up to 20 Kids • Includes Pony Rides & ZooCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Tummy Time Infant Class - Wyckoff, NJ
ADVEXPEDITION
Wyckoff, New Jersey
WorkshopADV Bookable

Tummy Time Infant Class - Wyckoff, NJ

Support your baby's milestones with expert-led tummy time at Abma's Farm in Wyckoff, NJ. Enjoy a fun, outdoor class focused on strength and development for pre-walkers.

WorkshopJune 27 • July 18 • Infant Movement Class Designed For Pre-WalkersCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Tour Boat
ADVEXPEDITION
Greenwood Lake, New York
Guided TourADV Bookable

Tour Boat

Step aboard nn32’s tour boat at Greenwood Lake Marina and cruise through the lake’s scenic waters while a guide shares the region’s rich history and natural highlights. Perfect for all ages, these hourly excursions balance comfort with discovery.

Guided TourStarting at $20 | 1 Hour | All AgesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Farm To Table Dinner- Wyckoff, NJ
ADVEXPEDITION
Wyckoff, New Jersey
FarmADV Bookable

Farm To Table Dinner- Wyckoff, NJ

Enjoy a unique six-course alfresco dining experience at Abma's Farm in Wyckoff, NJ. Fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with wine tasting make this farm dinner an unforgettable evening.

FarmSOLD OUT • CLICK FOR WAITLIST • Wyckoff, NJ • Ages 21+ • Up to 20 PeopleCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rock Climbing 101: Suffern, NY
ADVEXPEDITION
Suffern, NY
Guided TourADV Bookable

Rock Climbing 101: Suffern, NY

Discover the essentials of outdoor rock climbing in Suffern, NY with Northeast Mountain Guiding. This beginner-friendly day course combines hands-on lessons with climbs on natural sandstone cliffs for ages 8 and up.

Guided Tour$95 per person | Our most popular activity! | Ages 8+Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip