The Magnificent Waterfall in New Jersey That’s Located Only Minutes From Main Street

New Jersey has some amazing waterfalls, most of which are located in our many parks and mountains. A day trip to explore these amazing cascades is always worth it, but sometimes there's just no time for that! So what happens when you need the calming effect of a waterfall, but you don't have time to head to the biggest?

Well, we discovered an incredible hidden waterfall in New Jersey, waiting in the town of Little Falls, and it's surprisingly close to the town center. Found in a small park known as the Morris Canal Preserve, it's part of the Morris Canal Greenway, a still-under-construction trail that will ultimately connect four New Jersey counties over an impressive 111-mile stretch. It's still far from that goal, but this incredible waterfall is only one of the charming surprises you can see along the way. Read on to discover this hidden gem.

The Morris Canal was once a 102-mile waterway built between 1825 and 1836. While it helped promote industrial growth, it was eventually replaced by the railroad. Today, thanks to preservation efforts, it's possible to learn about the former canal all the while enjoying a scenic stroll through nature.

To find New Jersey's best-hidden waterfall, just look for the archway reading "Morris Canal Preserve." It's well-hidden, but this is your new pathway to serenity. Inside, you'll find a small and rarely crowded park that's filled with nice shady spots for a hot day.

Even when you go off the beaten path, the trails are pretty easy to navigate, so just follow them until you get to the water. It's a 0.2-mile walk along the Passaic River past some impressive old buildings before you reach your destination.

This is one of the smaller waterfalls in New Jersey, but it has powerful rushing water, especially after a rainstorm. It's a beautifully serene spot, and because it's hidden in plain sight, you'll rarely have too many people joining you—it's easy to get a great photo.

The entrance to the preserve is located right across the street from the Valley National Bank on Main Street, making it easy to find if you know what you're looking for.

Have you visited this hidden New Jersey waterfall in the town of Little Falls? What are your favorite spots along the Morris Canal Greenway? If you have yet to explore this hidden gem, be sure to share this article with a fellow nature enthusiast and let the planning begin!

If you want to learn more about the past, present, and future of the Morris Canal Greenway, check out the official website. There's more to do in Little Falls than just this spot, too—it's an amazing historic day trip.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.