The Giant Stairs Palisades Trail

We have posted many hikes and trails here. We often post about easy and moderate ones that might be done by a family. But this weekend, we are posting about two challenging New Jersey hikes.

The Giant Stairs Palisades Trail is a renowned and challenging hike located in the Palisades Interstate Park on the border of New Jersey and New York. It's known for its rugged terrain, stunning views of the Hudson River, and the unique, mile-long rock scramble that gives the trail its name.

This is a strenuous and challenging hike, recommended for experienced hikers. The main difficulty comes from the "Giant Stairs" section, which is a demanding rock scramble over a field of boulders that have fallen from the cliffs above. The hike also includes steep descents and ascents on stone steps and switchbacks.

Length: The most common loop is around 4 to 5 miles.
Time: Allow at least 3-4 hours to complete the loop, as the rock scramble section can be slow-going.

The most popular loop typically starts at State Line Lookout and uses a combination of trails. Long Path (aqua blazes) trail takes you from the parking area, descending toward the river. The Forest View Trail (blue-and-white blazes) continues the steep descent to the river level. Finally, the Shore Trail (white blazes) is the highlight of the hike, where you'll encounter the "Giant Stairs" rock scramble, which can be difficult to navigate and requires close attention to the white blazes to stay on track. The loop then ascends back to the Long Path to return to the starting point.

At the Giant Stairs
Photos: Stephen Harris - Flickr

The Giant Stairs is the most famous part of the trail—a nearly mile-long section of a boulder field where you must climb over, around, and sometimes under large rocks. It's an intense workout that requires using both your hands and feet.

Peanut Leap Cascade is a beautiful waterfall that tumbles into the Hudson River, and can be a picturesque spot for a break.

The hike begins and ends with sweeping, unobstructed views of the Hudson River and the New York side of the Palisades from the State Line Lookout.

Be prepared for a significant elevation change. The trail descends over 500 feet from the clifftop to the river and then climbs back up again.

Parking: The primary trailhead is at the State Line Lookout in Closter, NJ. There is a large paved lot, but a parking fee is charged (with the first hour often being free). The lot can fill up quickly on nice days.

What to Bring: Plenty of water and snacks. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended due to the rocky, uneven terrain. Long-sleeved clothing is a good idea to protect against poison ivy and ticks. A map of the trails is essential, as cell service can be spotty.

Do not attempt this hike in poor weather conditions, especially icy or snowy conditions, as the steep sections and rock scramble become extremely hazardous. The trail has steep drop-offs, so exercise caution, especially near the cliffs.

Trekking poles can be helpful for the steep descents and ascents, but you'll need to be able to stow them away for the rock scramble section where you need both hands free.