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Overlook Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,314 Google reviews · Running trail in Paterson, New Jersey · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Overlook Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Overlook Park
“The walking paths are well-maintained, and the informative signage provides interesting historical context.”
“The overlook park has a small parking lot but if you walk down some stairs there is a large amphitheater like space with a stunning view of the falls.”
“The waterfall adds a magical and serene touch, making it a wonderful place for people of all ages to enjoy.”
Gorgeous!! Nice easy walk down the stairs for an amazing view! There were a few porta-potties and plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic!
Overlook Park is a hidden gem! The view of Paterson Falls is breathtaking, and the recently renovated park offers ample green space for picnics and relaxation. The walking paths are well-maintained, and the informative signage provides interesting historical context.
The overlook park has a small parking lot but if you walk down some stairs there is a large amphitheater like space with a stunning view of the falls. It was raining the entire time I was at the park and I was soaked by the time I left but I could imagine it being a great spot for a picnic or to just enjoy the falls.
This place is an absolute gem. It's beauty radiates from all sides and never disappoints. It rests largely around the Historic Falls, has a few hiking trails and the serenity for life's fullness.
Trail conditions & character
“Overlook Park in Paterson, New Jersey, is one of those rare places where you can feel both the raw beauty of nature and the weight of history in the same moment.”
“The overlook park has a small parking lot but if you walk down some stairs there is a large amphitheater like space with a stunning view of the falls.”
“Paved pathways guide you to the best viewing spots, and there are benches where you can sit and simply take in the sights and sounds.”
“Depending on the time of day, the light hits the old walls in ways that highlight its age and character.”
Plan your run at Overlook Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitepatersonnj.gov
- Phone(973) 321-1500
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Paterson
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
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National historical park known for a 77-ft. waterfall that sparked water-power development in 1792.
Mary Ellen Kramer Park
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Pennington Park
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Barbour Park
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