State Line Lookout

State Line Cafe Phone Number: 201-750-0465
State Line Cafe Hours

State Line Lookout is a scenic overlook on the Palisades situated at the highest point on the Palisades Cliffs, about half a mile south of the New Jersey-New York state line. On site are restrooms, State Line Cafe, and three lookouts including Point Lookout which is the highest point on the Palisades (el. 520 ft).

State Line Lookout has its own unnumbered exit from the Palisades Interstate Parkway North in Alpine, New Jersey (2 miles north of Exit 2). Access to the Lookout is available for pedestrians and cyclists via Old Route 9W, a 1.5 mile section of concrete highway closed to traffic. Grounds and trails are open during normal park hours.

Metered parking is in effect at State Line Lookout year-round. Restrooms are available at State Line Cafe, open daily.

State Line Lookout GPS Coordinates: 40.989108, -73.906678

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Hiking at State Line Lookout

Women’s Federation Monument Hike: Easy | 2 mi., 1 hr. round-trip.
Peanut Leap Cascade Loop: Moderate | 2.5 mi., 2 hrs. round-trip.
The Giant Stairs Hike: Challenging | 4 mi., 3 hrs. round-trip.
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Download a printer-friendly version of the hiking map

Includes Women's Federation Monument Hike, Peanut Cascade Loop, The Giant Stairs Hike

Winter Closings

State Line Lookout and Cafe may be closed during a significant winter storm event. The State Line area will be plowed and open for cross-country skiing after the Parkway and other critical park roads have been completely cleared and deemed safe by the Parkway Police. Visitors can expect the area to be open for skiing within 24 hours of the end of a typical storm event.

Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto

Fantastic Views

Even when the Hudson is blanketed in fog, the views from State Line Lookout can inspire a thrill! Every season and weather condition creates a different scene, so visit more than once to get the full experience!

Photo: Liam Keegan
Photo: Liam Keegan

State Line Hawk Watch
Each fall volunteers monitor the migration of raptors across the skies above State Line Lookout. Visitors are always welcome to stop by and learn about conservation and citizen science.

Our Nature...

Cross-Country Skiing

5 miles of designated cross-country ski trails are marked A-F. These trails are maintained for winter use but not groomed. Skiers are advised to wait for at least 4 inches of snow for their outing.

Our Trails...

Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto

Old Route 9W

Old Route 9W is closed to vehicles and provides access to State Line Lookout for pedestrians and cyclists from US Route 9W. From the trails, you may spy a mysterious monument, as well!

Read More...

Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto

An Accessible Overlook

The area provides access to some of the best hiking in the New Jersey Palisades, and is the beginning point for one of our most famous (or infamous) routes: The Giant Stairs Hike.

Plan your hike!

Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto

State Line Cafe

Built in 1937 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Lookout Inn offers a lunch and snack menu. It is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM most days of the year. The building is fully accessible.

Photo: Francesca Costa
Photo: Francesca Costa

Hidden on Closter Mountain...

While most come for the stunning views and challenging hiking trails, State Line Lookout also is an area steeped in local history. The people of Skunk Hollow, a Freedman Colony from the 1800's, are remembered through signage and various historic hikes.

Learn More...

Photo: Anthony Taranto
Photo: Anthony Taranto

Our New Interpretive Ranger Station

This public amenity offers a chance to learn about the natural world, cool off, and rest after a hike. Speak with an Interpretive Ranger, create a family craft, or sit with a good book!

Site Tour of State Line Lookout