If you’re a frequent reader of Only In New Jersey, you’re likely familiar with the gorgeous Great Falls. I’ve covered them in the past, but not quite like this. Today, I present a mile-long walking tour that takes you to several important and interesting sites, one of which is a breathtaking waterfall. You and your family will love exploring this easy waterfall hike in New Jersey. Check it out!

The Mill Mile Trail is a self-guided walking tour that can be taken with the assistance of a free app.
Flickr/Paterson Great Falls
It comes in at around one mile and it's very family friendly! If you're unable (or would prefer not) to download the Mill Mile app, you can just follow along the route detailed below.
Your first stop is the Paterson Museum. Find it at 2 Market Street, Paterson.
Facebook/The Paterson Museum
Step inside one of the best family-friendly attractions in new Jersey. The Paterson Museum is housed in the restored Thomas Rogers Locomotive and Machine Shop (c. 1873) at the corner of Market Street and Spruce Street, in the heart of the Great Falls National Historic Landmark District. The museum's diverse collections include local archaeology, history, and mineralogy. Paterson has been the birthplace of many innovators and inventors; the museum relates to the history of Paterson by showing its evolution as a machinery and textile center, the "Silk City," locomotive manufacturing, Colt arms, and the unique Holland submarines. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday and admission is free for those under 18, with a suggested donation of just $2 for adults.

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Just across the way, you'll find the enchanting Great Falls National Historic Park.
Facebook/Paterson Great Falls NHP
Great Falls National Historic Park is a 118-acre site, with the falls at the center. You can also find several restored mills, water flow raceways, a welcome center and gift shop. Admission to the park is free and tours are offered. An impressive 77 feet tall, this is actually one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi by width and volume. The falls were formed about 13,000 years ago, when the ice from Glacial Lake Passaic receded. The falls powered cotton, paper and silk mills and were vital in the development of the Colt Revolver. They were used as a hydraulic power source for the manufacturing plant. It's easy to see wh people consider this one of the most amazing waterfalls in New Jersey.
Your last stop is Hinchliffe Stadium. This photo was taken in 2009, but restoration has been ongoing.
Wikipedia/KForce
Hinchliffe is a 10,000-seat stadium that was completed in 1932. It is one of only a handful of stadiums surviving nationally that once played host to significant Negro League baseball during America's Jim Crow era. The stadium was designated a National Historic Landmark in March 2013. In 1933, the stadium's first complete season hosting baseball, Hinchliffe hosted the Colored Championship of the Nation, the Negro League equivalent of the World Series. The next year, the New York Black Yankees made the stadium their home, a residency that lasted until 1945, with one brief interruption. Countless legends played at this stadium including hall-of-famer Larry Doby, who broke the American League color barrier in 1947.
Here's a little shot of your route!
Image/Google Maps
While I hope you enjoyed this article, I highly recommend you download the Mill Mile app (for iPhone or Android) for more fascinating information. You're going to love embarking on this exceptional adventure. It's one of the best hikes in New Jersey! You can also learn more about the falls, museum, and local history by visiting the National Parks Website here.

This is a fantastic family outing as you embark on an easy waterfall hike in New Jersey. What are your favorite family-friendly attractions in New Jersey? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Looking for more waterfalls in New Jersey? Pay a visit to this little-known natural attraction in the Garden State.

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More to Explore

easy waterfall hike in New Jersey

Elisa Regulski | December 29, 2019

What are the best easy hikes in New Jersey?

You don’t have to embark on a strenuous journey in order to experience New Jersey’s gorgeous nature. These easy hikes in New Jersey are perfect for the whole family.  The Van Campens Glen Trail, located inside Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, is only 1.6 miles round trip. The end views are astounding. You’ll also love walking to the Hawk Rock Viewpoint in the Ramapo County Valley Reservation. These sweeping panoramic views are what dreams are made of.

What are the best waterfalls in New Jersey?

There are so many breathtaking waterfalls in New Jersey. Buttermilk Falls, located inside Stokes State Forest, is one of the most beautiful. And the best part? This majestic cascade is easily accessible. The viewing area is right near the parking lot, and there are plenty of wheelchair ramps nearby. The Great Falls in Hillsborough are also spectacular. You could stare at them for hours and never grow tired of the view.

What are the best family-friendly attractions in New Jersey?

For a fun family day trip, venture to Bluebird Alpaca Farm. Here, you can meet the furry animals and even take them on a walk. These are fascinating creatures, and it’s always fun to see one in person. Huber Woods Park is another great family-friendly attraction in New Jersey. This massive 375-acre park is packed with things to do.

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