There are dozens of waterfalls in New Jersey of varying sizes hidden across the state but this little road trip focuses on our most accessible waterfalls – waterfalls that don’t require hiking. Of all the waterfall road trips in New Jersey, you’ll likely find this one is the best for families, too! All waterfalls featured in this ‘loop’ are wheelchair accessible and can be enjoyed by families with strollers.

You can start on either end of this loop, which spans about 60 miles.
Google Maps
It's just a small selection of what the state has to offer but I wanted to highlight several beautiful waterfalls that could be enjoyed by all New Jerseyans.

1. The Great Falls Of The Passaic - Paterson

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, 72 McBride Ave Ext, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA
Paterson Great Falls / Flickr
This beautiful waterfall (New Jersey's largest by volume) is part of a national park! Guided tours are available and several routes are wheelchair-accessible. Visit the welcome center, accessible with assistance, for information on tours.

The city of Paterson, America's first planned industrial city, was formed around the falls. Great Falls powered mills and led to the mass production of cotton, silk, steam locomotives, continuous rolls of paper, airplane engines, and more - forever changing the United States.

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2. Morris Canal Preserve - Little Falls

Morris Canal Park, Main St, Little Falls, NJ 07424, USA
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Though the waterfall that Little Falls was named after is long gone, the town does have a hidden gem in Morris Canal Preserve. It's located right along Main Street and home to several short trails (under a mile) and an impressive waterfall. You'll have to head down a stairway from the Main Street entrance but the Municipal Lot entrance is wheelchair accessible.

3. Grace Lord Park - Boonton

Grace Lord Park, Plane St, Boonton, NJ 07005, USA
shmutaki / TripAdvisor
There are TWO terrific waterfalls at Grace Lord Park, at least one of which is located right off the paved walking pathways. You can relax in the gazebo or enjoy it from above in the elevated pavilion. There is a second, larger waterfall, but it's been a while since I've been to the park...leave a comment and let us know if it's accessible, as well!

Discover more hidden waterfalls in New Jersey that are wonderful to explore like this one.

4. Buttermilk Falls - Layton

Buttermilk Falls, Mountain Rd, Layton, NJ 07851, USA
takomabibelot / Flickr
You can practically drive right up to Buttermilk Falls! The towering waterfall comes in at 85 feet tall (8 feet taller than Paterson's Great Falls) but it is fairly narrow. It's best after rainfall!

New Jersey is also home to some wonderful lakes. One of our favorites is this beautiful lake near Morris and Sussex Counties:

Will you take a waterfall road trip in New Jersey this year? You can find the map and directions for this New Jersey waterfall road trip on Google Maps. Check out this list to discover other waterfalls in New Jersey that you can enjoy with no hiking necessary! Of course, you can always take a day trip tour of nearby Niagara Falls!

9 Gorgeous New Jersey Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight With No Hiking Required

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Waterfall Road Trips In New Jersey

Kim Magaraci | July 16, 2021

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in New Jersey?
New Jersey is full of beautiful natural wonders - they're just about everywhere you look! Here are a few of our favorite natural wonders in New Jersey:

  • Visit Norvin Green State Forest to see a handful of natural wonders - including several waterfalls, caves, rocky summits, and the closest thing to alpine vegetation you'll find in NJ.
  • Long Beach Island is a natural wonder itself - so next time you're walking the dunes and heading to the Chegg - take a minute to appreciate the beauty of barrier islands!

Other natural wonders in New Jersey include:

Whether you're exploring the Hudson Highlands, the Skylands, the Meadowlands, the Pinelands, or... the shore, you'll find some scenery that's sure to catch your eye here.

What are some must-see places to visit in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a little bit of everything! If you love small towns, visit:

Each one offers shopping, small restaurants, and a community vibe you're sure to enjoy.

  • If you prefer cities, explore Jersey City's historic districts or walk around New Brunswick, where you'll find amazing restaurants like Clydz and Destination Dogs.
  • Down in South Jersey, Lake Lenape Park is a fun place for the whole family to explore.
  • Visit Lucy the Elephant in Margate for a truly unique attraction!
  • While you're down the shore, walk around Cape May. Not only is the town quaint and charming but there are historic bunkers on the beach and a lighthouse you can climb for a remarkable view.

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