Norvin Green State Forest
The Norvin Green State Forest is the largest state forest in New Jersey and has many of the state’s most interesting natural features. It is located at 150 Snake Den Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456. It is a great place to hike and is full of historical attractions. You can choose to follow trails to many of the area’s highlights or just drive through the park. Some of the area’s most scenic spots include seasonal waterfalls and mines. There are also several unique hikes, including the Kuser Memorial.
A number of trail systems are spread throughout the forest. One of the better hiking options is the Parvin Lake Trail, which takes visitors around the lake. Depending on your fitness level, you can opt for a shorter or more challenging route. At the northern end of the lake, you can enjoy excellent views of the surrounding Ramapo Lake. Alternatively, you can head north and explore the many hiking options on offer.
Another interesting hiking option is the Blue HB Trail. This trail leads to a secluded glacial pond. Also a fun fact, the Blue HB is the longest unbroken line in the state.
As you’d expect from a name like the Blue HB, the trail is fairly easy to navigate. In fact, you can easily spend a day or two in the park and still not run out of things to do. However, this particular hike has its share of obstacles. For instance, it’s difficult to hike the Otter Hole Trail on snowshoes. And despite its name, you’ll be able to find more than your fair share of the water-sucking mosquitoes.
The Greenwood Lake Trail is another option. This trail leads to a secluded lake that boasts some of the best views in the area. It’s a 4.5 mile trek to the top, but it’s worth it for the view alone.
A more challenging trek is the Bearfort Mountain trail. It’s one of the newest and most impressive hiking options in the state, and it’s an excellent example of the locals’ best kept secret. Among other things, it’s a great route for mountain bikers. Unlike many of the other trails in the park, this trail is free. Want to know more
Among the many awe-inspiring features of the park is the Skylands Manor, a 1920s era house built by ironmasters. It’s a candidate for the National Register of Natural Landmarks, and the surrounding grounds are a sight to behold. Among the many amenities offered by the state park, you can enjoy an outdoor pool, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a picnic grove, a beach sand volleyball court, a swimming sandpit and a man made beach.
In addition to the Greenwood Lake trail, the Norvin Green State Forest is home to other intriguing hiking options. Among these, there’s the Kuser Memorial, a historical site that is a candidate for the National Register of Historical Places, and the Cohansey Cumberland 100, which is included on the State Register of Historic Places. While you’re out and about, you may also want to check out the awe-inspiring Lucy’s Overlook. Click here