Great Falls of the Passaic River

National Historical Park
Paterson
Passaic Co, NJ

Total Time: 0:45
Estimated Distance: 1.5 Miles

Pros: Significant, historical waterfall
Cons: Urban area in rough neighborhood
Hike Type: Figure 8 Loop
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/91zRqkivVTFpYCAi9

The Great Falls of the Passaic River is the one of the largest waterfalls by volume in the Eastern United States. However, it is situated in the middle of a run down area within a city, and its view is somewhat obstructed by the orientation of the falls. Despite that, it's still very worthwhile to visit as you can feel the share power of the falls.

I parked in the main parking area for the falls, and took the walking trail north of the falls so some old historical warehouses and ruins, including the abandoned Colt (think handguns) factory. I then headed back and past the ampitheater and went on the stairs path to Spruce Street, and then crossed the bridge over the falls to Mary Ellen Kramer Park. I then took the path by Ryle Road down to the Passaic River by the falls. I then turned around and took the route back to my car.

Map of the Route

Falls from the Overlook

Rock Wall South of the Falls

Colt Factory Site

Waterfalls with the Pump House

View from the Top of the Falls

Mary Ellen Kramer Great Falls Park

Passaic River

Top of Falls from the Park

National Historical Park