If you’re looking for a fun outdoor excursion, Ramapo Mountain located in Mahwah, New Jersey, is the perfect spot for you! Rated one the top of the “Best Fall Foliage Hikes in New Jersey” by bestofnj.com and njhiking.com, you will not be disappointed, even as the season changes. 

Ramapo Mountain State Forest contains a popular and extensive network of trails. It’s easy to create hiking loops of any length, whether you are an experienced hiker or just looking for a light and easy walk with amazing views. And being only an hour and a half away from Middletown, it would be a great weekend day trip for you and your friends, family, or significant other. 

Trails Overview: 

The Ramapo Lake Loop, which surrounds Ramapo Lake, is a popular hike, accessed from the lower parking area on Skyline Drive via the Ramapo Lake Spur.  Ramapo Lake is the center of the trail system in the 1,400-acre Ramapo Lake Natural Area within the park. The white-blazed Castle Loop and the purple-on-white-blazed Tamarack Loop are both accessed from the upper parking area on Skyline Drive. To view a detailed descriptions list of hikes based on view/difficulty  click: https://www.nynjtc.org/view/bypark/Ramapo%20Mountain%20State%20Forest

What to do at Ramapo Mountain: 

1. Pack a picnic. This would be a wonderful date idea (don’t forget a blanket in case it’s chilly!). 
2. Fishing. If you’re an avid fisher, this park has a 120-acre clearwater mountain lake that provides an excellent spot for the sport. 
3. Horseback Riding. The multi-use trails are perfect for horseback riding. 
4. Mountain Biking. The trails with beautiful scenic outlooks reward every rider. 
5. Hiking. The beautiful trails have a very large range of difficulty.