Wyanokie High Point
Our second challenging hike for this weekend is the Wyanokie High Point and Chikahoki Falls Loop located in Norvin Green State Forest. This strenuous loop features waterfalls, swimming holes, and sweeping reservoir views. This loop is a popular hike in northern New Jersey. This trail is a good choice for those looking for a challenging but not overly strenuous hike that offers a variety of terrain and stunning views.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult. While not as rugged as the Giant Stairs, the trail includes significant elevation changes, rocky sections, and some steep climbs, particularly on the ascent to Wyanokie High Point.
Length: The loop is typically between 6.5 and 8.5 miles, depending on the exact route taken.
Time: Allow at least 4 to 5 hours to complete the loop, as the rocky terrain can slow you down.
Wyanokie High Point is the main destination of the hike. The summit offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view that includes the Wanaque Reservoir and, on a clear day, the New York City skyline. It's a perfect spot for a lunch break.
Chikahoki Falls is a beautiful 30-foot waterfall that is a highlight of the trail, especially after heavy rains or in the spring. You can often get a good view from a short detour off the main trail.
The hike takes you through diverse landscapes, including dense rhododendron tunnels, rocky ridges, and old logging roads. You'll also pass through areas with evidence of the region's iron mining past.
Beyond Wyanokie High Point, the loop often includes other scenic viewpoints like Carris Hill and Yoo-Hoo Point, providing a continuous string of rewarding views.
While the hike is a loop, there are options for out-and-back hikes for a shorter trip, such as a direct route to Wyanokie High Point.
The area has a history of iron mining, and you may pass by old mine shafts, such as the Roomy Mine and Blue Mine. Be aware that some of these are closed to the public or only open during certain times of the year to protect hibernating bats.
The most common starting point is the parking lot on Snake Den Road, which is part of the New Weis Center for Environmental Education property. Parking here is for hikers visiting Norvin Green State Forest. Note that the lot is typically open from 9 AM to dusk.
The trail system in Norvin Green is extensive, and it's essential to follow a map and be attentive to the blazes. A common route uses a combination of the Otter Hole (green), Hewitt-Butler (blue), and Wyanokie Circular (red-on-white) trails. A trail map from the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is highly recommended, as cell service can be unreliable. Pay close attention to the trail blazes as it is easy to take a wrong turn in the extensive network of trails.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky and uneven ground. Bug spray, especially during tick season.
The trails can be very rocky and challenging, especially during or after rain, as the rocks can be slick.
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