Paterson Great Falls

Paterson Great Falls at Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson, New Jersey is an easy 0.1-mile out-and-back universally accessible walk that leads to views of the 77-foot tall waterfall known as Great Falls.

This is not a hike but rather a short walk through the overlook section of the park to reach a view of the Great Falls (Passaic River) from downstream. Visitors will get views from the top-most section of the overlook of the 77-foot tall waterfall as it cascades down the Passaic River several-hundred feet upstream. The view from downstream is by far the best of the waterfall, however, visitors can follow nearby footpaths to reach different views; however, this out-and-back path leads down stairs (not universally accessible) to reach a better view of the falls.

Universal Access
Note that the top-most section of the overlook is universally accessible; however, to reach the amphitheater for better views of Great Falls -- located down the stairs -- that section is not universally accessible.

Parking
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided along Ellison Street in Paterson. The lot is large enough to fit a couple dozen vehicles as of December 2023.

Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.