West Milford New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Milford, New Jersey.
1. Long Pond Ironworks State Park
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
Long Pond Ironworks State Park preserves the remains of an iron-making community that operated from the Revolutionary War era through the Civil War. Visitors can explore ruins of blast furnaces, water wheels, and workers' homes while learning about early American industrial history. The park also offers hiking trails through scenic woodlands along the Wanaque River.
2. Apshawa Preserve
NATURAL WOODLAND RETREAT
Apshawa Preserve spans over 500 acres of pristine forest with hiking trails and scenic vistas in West Milford. The preserve features Butler Reservoir at its center, providing visitors with opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Hikers can enjoy several miles of well-maintained trails through diverse habitats including hardwood forests and wetland areas.
3. Abram Hewitt State Park
WILDERNESS HIKING PARADISE
Abram Hewitt State Park offers extensive wilderness hiking experiences with connections to the Appalachian Trail. The park's rugged terrain provides challenging trails and rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands region. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diverse plant and animal life found throughout the park's protected forest ecosystem.
4. West Milford Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The West Milford Museum is housed in a former Methodist Episcopal Church dating back to 1860 and showcases the township's rich history. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, photographs, and videos that tell the story of West Milford's development through the centuries. The museum is staffed by dedicated volunteers from the West Milford Heritage Committee who are available to enhance the visitor experience.
5. West Milford Family Pump Track
CYCLING SKILLS COURSE
West Milford Family Pump Track offers an exciting circuit designed for bicyclists of various skill levels. The track features a series of rollers and banked turns that allow riders to practice and develop their cycling abilities. This family-friendly venue provides a safe environment for children and adults to enjoy outdoor recreation together.
6. Ringwood State Park
HISTORIC ESTATES & GARDENS
Ringwood State Park encompasses over 4,000 acres of natural beauty and historic sites near West Milford. The park features the New Jersey Botanical Garden and Skylands Manor, a Tudor-style mansion surrounded by formal gardens. Visitors can also explore hiking trails, Shepherd Lake for swimming and fishing, and the historic Ringwood Manor estate.
7. Wawayanda State Park
RECREATIONAL WILDERNESS AREA
Wawayanda State Park spans more than 34,000 acres of pristine wilderness with diverse recreational opportunities just a short drive from West Milford. The park features Lake Wawayanda for swimming, boating and fishing, plus over 60 miles of hiking trails including a section of the Appalachian Trail. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating when conditions permit.
8. Sterling Forest State Park
VAST FOREST PRESERVE
Sterling Forest State Park protects nearly 22,000 acres of forest ecosystem just across the New Jersey border from West Milford. The park's Sterling Lake and extensive trail network offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation. The Sterling Forest Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the area's natural history and conservation importance.
9. Fairy Tale Forest
NOSTALGIC STORYBOOK PARK
Fairy Tale Forest was a beloved attraction in Oak Ridge featuring cottages depicting scenes from famous Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Created by German immigrant Paul Woehle Sr. in 1957, the park delighted generations of children with its whimsical displays, kiddie rides, magic shows, and costumed characters. Though now closed, the site remains a nostalgic memory for many who grew up in the area.
10. Greenwood Lake
SCENIC RECREATIONAL LAKE
Greenwood Lake is a seven-mile-long glacial lake straddling the New Jersey-New York border that offers extensive recreational opportunities. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports during summer months on this scenic body of water. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and several lakeside restaurants where visitors can dine with beautiful water views.
11. The Vreeland Store
HISTORIC EATERY & MARKET
The Vreeland Store is a charming historic establishment that has been transformed into a popular restaurant and market in West Milford. Originally built in the 1800s, this renovated general store offers a blend of history and modern culinary delights. Visitors can enjoy homemade meals, fresh baked goods, and specialty groceries in a rustic atmosphere that honors the building's heritage.
12. Idylease Inn
HISTORIC WELLNESS RETREAT
Idylease Inn is a historic landmark that opened in 1903 as one of the first wellness retreats in the Highlands region. The impressive Colonial Revival building features distinctive architecture and has been meticulously preserved to honor its heritage as a health resort. Today, visitors can appreciate the historical significance of this West Milford treasure that represents an important chapter in the area's resort history.
13. Jimmy Geez North
POPULAR SPORTS BAR
Jimmy Geez North is a lively sports bar and restaurant that serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors in West Milford. The establishment offers an extensive menu of pub favorites including their famous wings, burgers, and other comfort food classics. Sports enthusiasts appreciate the numerous televisions for game watching while enjoying a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
14. West Milford Farmer's Market
LOCAL PRODUCE SHOWCASE
The West Milford Farmer's Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers offering fresh goods to the community. Visitors can browse stands filled with seasonal produce, homemade baked goods, handcrafted items, and specialty foods. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space while supporting local agriculture and small businesses in the Highlands region.
15. Brown's Point
LAKESIDE SHOPPING VILLAGE
Brown's Point is a charming shopping area located along Greenwood Lake offering specialty stores and eateries with water views. The collection of businesses includes unique boutiques, antique shops, and casual dining options in a picturesque setting. Visitors appreciate the relaxed lakeside atmosphere while browsing for gifts, home decor, and enjoying meals overlooking the water.