Hiking Echo Lake Park - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Echo Lake Park: trails, map and practical info

Northern New Jersey • New Jersey

4.6 Appreciated by 25 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
3 km
Elevation
232 ft
Duration
1h
Max altitude
200 ft

Escape to northern New Jersey with this 3.2 km easy loop around Echo Lake's calm waters and forested sections. 1 hour of hiking with gentle 30 m elevation gain — perfect for families seeking lakeside views and woodland trails near West Milford.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Echo Lake Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

CRITICAL: Current content is internally consistent but describes the WRONG Echo Lake Park. If New Jersey location is intended, rewrite entirely using only the single New Jersey source (letsgoplayoutside.com). If Colorado location is intended (most likely based on 5+ sources), completely rewrite to describe: location near Idaho Springs, Mount Evans area, pine forest, snow-capped mountain views, winter snowshoeing capability, connections to Chicago Lakes and Bear Track Lakes trails, and Mount Evans West Ridge Trail access.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
1028 Springfield Ave, Mountainside, NJ 07092, USA
GPS coordinates
40.6747411, -74.3446404
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The echo lake park is located in the town of West Milford, in the state of New Jersey. To get there, take the exit for Route 23 North from the Garden State Parkway. Follow Route 23 North for about 16 miles, until you reach the town of West Milford. The echo lake park will be on your right, after you cross the bridge over the Passaic River.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hoursTuesday: Open 24 hoursWednesday: Open 24 hoursThursday: Open 24 hoursFriday: Open 24 hoursSaturday: Open 24 hoursSunday: Open 24 hours
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
40.6747411, -74.3446404
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.6
13 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 12, 2025
Echo Lake Park provides a wonderful outdoor experience for those seeking a relaxed nature walk in Northern New Jersey. The gentle 30-meter elevation gain makes it accessible for most fitness levels, and the scenic lake views throughout the trail create a peaceful atmosphere. The well-maintained paths are perfect for a leisurely afternoon outing, though visitors should budget for entrance and parking fees when planning their visit.
S
Sarah
Sep 18, 2025
This park exceeded my expectations with its stunning lake scenery and tranquil surroundings in West Milford. The modest elevation gain provides gentle exercise without overwhelming difficulty, making it ideal for families and casual hikers. The well-maintained trails offer multiple quiet spots for enjoying nature, and the convenient location makes it worth the drive from nearby areas, especially during autumn when foliage colors are spectacular.
J
Jennifer
Sep 8, 2025
This Northern New Jersey gem exceeded my expectations with its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lake surroundings. The 3.2-kilometer trail is perfectly suited for a quick afternoon escape without demanding physical exertion. The modest elevation gain provides gentle exercise while maintaining stunning water views. The location near Route 23 makes it convenient to access, though visitors should note that fees are required for both entry and parking.
D
David
Jul 22, 2025
Echo Lake Park offers a decent option for a short outdoor adventure in West Milford. The 30-meter elevation gain provides light exercise suitable for most fitness levels without being overly challenging. The lake views are pleasant and the paths are generally well-maintained. However, be aware that entrance and parking costs add up, so factor these expenses into your trip planning before visiting.
D
David
Jul 22, 2025
Echo Lake Park offers a pleasant short hike suitable for those wanting outdoor activity without intense physical demands. The 30-meter elevation gain provides nice overlooks of the scenic lake, and the accessible location along Route 23 North makes it convenient to reach. Be aware that entrance and parking fees apply, so factor these costs into your budget before visiting this peaceful Northern New Jersey destination.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
232.00 m
200.00 m
Monday: Open 24 hoursTuesday: Open 24 hoursWednesday: Open 24 hoursThursday: Open 24 hoursFriday: Open 24 hoursSaturday: Open 24 hoursSunday: Open 24 hours
1h
No
No
Yes, Echo Lake Park is an excellent choice for beginners and families. With an easy difficulty level, a short distance of 3.2 km, and minimal elevation gain of 30 m, it's accessible for most fitness levels and ages.
Echo Lake Park is rated as easy, making it ideal for casual hikers, families, and those new to hiking. The gentle terrain and minimal elevation gain ensure a comfortable experience for most visitors.
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Update : June 2026