The Palisades of the Hudson

Photo: Anthony Taranto

The Palisades Interstate Park in New Jersey is about twelve miles long and half a mile wide, with 2,500 acres of wild Hudson River shoreline, uplands, and cliffs — just minutes from midtown Manhattan!

Getting to Know the Palisades

On Foot

Hikers and cross-country skiers have over 30 miles of trails to discover, ranging from gentle riverside strolls to challenging rock scrambles.

Hiking in the park
Many first-time Palisades hikers are surprised at how rugged our trails can get! Check our hiking page for tips, suggested hike routes, and other useful information before you set out.

By a Picnic Table

Four riverfront picnic areas provide space to relax and play by the mighty Hudson — and to show us how you grill!

Picnics and grilling in the park
Each of our picnic areas has its own character, but each can get busy too — especially on a nice weekend day. This page will help you avoid some frustration and get the most from your day in the park.

On a Bike

The park includes miles of tree-covered roadway right along the Hudson — not to mention some grueling uphills to conquer!

Cycling in the park
Have fun, challenge yourself, decompress — but please be courteous and keep it safe! This page will give you the information you need to enjoy your ride here.

From the Water

The park and the Palisades take on a whole new aspect when experienced from the river!

Boating in the park
Boaters should always stay mindful that the Hudson is a wide tidal river with powerful currents and heavy boat and ship traffic! This page will start you off with some of the information you’ll need to get safely on and off the water from the park.

With a Fishing Pole

Fishing and crabbing are allowed along the shoreline, for the length of the park.

Fishing in the park
For information about what is and is not allowed (and what may or may not be safe to eat!) please check here before you drop your line in the river.

Through a Park Program

Whether you love history, nature, just getting outside — or a bit of all of it! — throughout the year you’ll find a wide range of public programs, open to all and at no or minimal cost.

Public programs in the park
We also offer ways to get even more involved with the park, with ongoing park programs, volunteer opportunities, and more! Take a look at this page for a calendar of upcoming events and to get a better sense of all we have to offer.

From Home

As you explore this website, we hope you will enjoy learning more about the Palisades and this park — with their rich stories, both human and natural.

The beautiful Palisades
Thanks to the efforts of far-thinking people over a century ago and since, the New Jersey Palisades today belong to all of us! These pages were created to help you and others enjoy this great National Landmark.
Photo: Anthony Taranto.