Adventurous travelers who want to stay near a memorable hike will love these four amazing Airbnbs near waterfalls.
The Garden State might be one of the smaller states, but we're used to packing a lot into those tight quarters. That doesn't just mean the high number of cities and small towns offering great culture, shopping, and dining—although we have a lot of those! New Jersey also has a surprising number of state parks offering amazing escapes into nature, ranging from the swampy regions of the Pine Barrens to the mountainous state reservations of the north, and everything in between. Hiding in those many natural getaways, you'll find a wide assortment of incredible waterfall hikes in New Jersey, ranging from towering cascades to beautiful brooks. Some of them might be pretty far out of the way from where you come from, so if you want to turn your hike into a full-on vacation, we've put together this list of the best Airbnbs near waterfall trails in New Jersey. Stay only minutes away from some of the most beautiful locations in the Garden State, with both nature and the city within easy reach of your home base.
Epic Waterfall Trails in New Jersey
1. Apshawa Preserve Green Loop
Apshawa Preserve Green Loop is located in the isolated Apshawa Preserve, one of the most peaceful spots in North Jersey. Coming in at 3.7 miles, it's a moderate hike that takes you over some rough terrain but should be easy to navigate with a good pair of hiking boots. Apshawa Falls is one of the smaller cascades in the Garden State, but its natural landscape is one of the most beautiful photo ops in the region.
2. Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail
Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail is the best way to see the famous Buttermilk Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Jersey. Located not far from New Jersey's link to the Appalachian Trail, this challenging 6.8-mile trail takes you through some remote corners of the Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area. If you're not up for a scenic hike, the recreation area also offers an express path to the waterfall.
3. Hemlock Falls Loop
Hemlock Falls Loop is one of the easier ways to see an iconic New Jersey waterfall. Located in the beautiful South Mountain Reservation, Hemlock Falls is best seen via a 1.6-mile loop trail that garners a moderate rating. The 25-foot waterfall goes down a rock wall, and is most impressive after a good rain or during the winter when it's frozen solid.
4. Great Falls of the Passaic River
The Paterson Great Falls aren't just the most famous falls in New Jersey; they're one of the most famous in North America. Part of a national historical park, this trail is one of the easiest to access in the state. At 1.6 miles, the entire hike is over boardwalks, gangways, and paved paths that offer the best possible views of these natural falls, which have been harnessed for industrial use in this busy area of New Jersey.
The Best Airbnbs Near These Hikes
1. Lakefront Cabin A-Frame (West Milford)
This Lakefront Cabin A-Frame is located just 14 minutes from the Apshawa Preserve and is ideal for anyone bringing a group for a hiking getaway. Sleeping eight, it features a game room, an outside fire pit, and some stunning views of the nearby forest. It's also a short distance from Mountain Creek, if you're here during ski season!
2. Lakefront Escape (Hopatcong)
This Lake Hopatcong Getaway is known as "La Vida Lago", and is an ideal getaway for those who want some fun on the water. Located about 40 minutes from the Buttermilk Falls trailhead, it sleeps up to four guests and offers lakeside access to New Jersey's top inland water destination, Lake Hopatcong, one of the state's top fishing spots.
3. Walkable Wonder (Maplewood)
Known as the Walkable Wonder, this charming home in Maplewood doesn't get closer to your destination than this—it's only a mile from the entrance to South Mountain Reservation, your access point to Hemlock Falls. Sleeping up to eight people and surrounded by greenery, the house contains an impressive collection of art and decor.
4. Mountaintop Carriage House (Montclair)
The Mountaintop Carriage House is located only 20 minutes by car from the Paterson Great Falls, but it feels like a world away. Located in the heart of Montclair, this beautiful guest house is a two-story building with a charming spiral staircase. It sleeps up to four guests and includes access to a private tennis court. You should have the energy after the easy hike at the Great Falls!
Have you ever stayed in any of these amazing Airbnbs near waterfall trails in New Jersey? If not, let a travel buddy know about this article so you can pick your favorite getaway and book your stay today! These are far from the only amazing cascades in New Jersey, so check out our full list of the best waterfalls in New Jersey, and if you need some more ideas on what to see and do in any of these spots, let Only in Your State's AI-powered travel planner create a custom itinerary for you based on your priorities, after only a few simple questions!




