The Palisades Interstate Park Shore Trail runs along the base of the Hudson Palisades cliffs in Bergen County, New Jersey, beginning at the Alpine Boat Basin on US-9W in Alpine. The trail follows the narrow Hudson River shoreline directly beneath sheer basalt cliffs that rise 90 to 160 meters above the water. The one-way trail extends approximately 14.5 kilometers south toward Fort Lee and the George Washington Bridge, though most visitors choose shorter out-and-back sections from the Alpine Boat Basin. A popular turnaround is Greenbrook Falls, a basalt-face waterfall flowing into the Hudson at approximately 2 kilometers from the basin — a 4-kilometer round-trip accessible to most walkers.
The trail surface near the river is rough, comprising river-polished cobbles, exposed basalt boulders, and narrow ledge paths that require careful footing. Rocky sections alternate with stretches of compacted gravel. The trail remains essentially flat at river level for its full length, with the notable exception of the steep 1-kilometer climb to the Palisades rim via the Long Path connector, which gains approximately 130 meters. Combining the Shore Trail with a rim return on the Long Path creates a rewarding shuttle or lollipop circuit for experienced hikers.
Parking at the Alpine Boat Basin costs $8 on weekdays and $15 on weekends. NJ Transit bus 9A from Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City reaches Alpine, making this one of the most transit-accessible natural trails in New Jersey. The boat basin has restrooms and a seasonal snack bar. No potable water exists on the trail itself beyond the basin facilities.
The views across the Hudson to the Manhattan skyline are outstanding throughout the hike, and the cliff faces support cliff-nesting peregrine falcons and red-tailed hawks. The trail passes beneath historic estate sites and intermittent stone ruins and old dock infrastructure appear along the route. Greenbrook Falls is at its most dramatic after rain or during spring snowmelt. The basalt boulders near the waterline become extremely slippery when wet; sturdy footwear with good grip is essential.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Alpine (Bergen County)
- Best season
- March–November
What to bring
- hiking boots (rocky trail near river)
- water
- snack
- comfortable walking shoes for rim trail
Location
Alpine Boat Basin, US-9W, Alpine, NJ 07620
40.9532, -73.9120 View on map
Highlights
- Dramatic basalt cliff scenery as the trail runs beneath sheer 90 to 160 m Palisades faces along the Hudson River
- Views across the Hudson River to the Manhattan skyline throughout the entire route
- Greenbrook Falls, a basalt-face waterfall flowing into the Hudson — most impressive after rain or spring snowmelt
- Peregrine falcon and red-tailed hawk cliff-nesting sites on the Palisades face
- Transit accessible via NJ Transit bus 9A from New York City Port Authority Bus Terminal
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip — the cobblestone and basalt boulder trail surface is extremely slippery when wet.
- Take NJ Transit bus 9A from Port Authority Bus Terminal to avoid the $15 weekend parking fee at Alpine Boat Basin.
- A 4 km round-trip out-and-back to Greenbrook Falls from the Alpine Boat Basin is the best short option for casual hikers.
- Carry all water needed — no potable sources exist on the trail beyond the boat basin facilities.
- For a challenging full day, combine the Shore Trail southbound with a return via the Long Path rim trail using a shuttle car.
- Check weather before heading out; wet basalt boulders near the river become dangerously slick after rain.
When to visit
Spring from April through May for Greenbrook Falls at peak flow and mild temperatures. Fall from September through November for foliage on the Palisades rim and clear Hudson River views. Summer weekdays are far more peaceful than weekends when the trail attracts large numbers of visitors from the New York metropolitan area.
Accessibility
The Palisades Shore Trail is not accessible to wheelchair or stroller users. The trail surface consists of large river cobbles, basalt boulders, and narrow ledge paths that present significant obstacles for any wheeled equipment. The Alpine Boat Basin parking area and immediate waterfront have some flat paved sections but the trail itself begins on uneven natural terrain.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Palisades Shore Trail in New Jersey or New York?
The trail begins at the Alpine Boat Basin in Alpine, New Jersey, and runs south within Palisades Interstate Park. The described trailhead and the most popular short sections are within New Jersey.
Can visitors reach the trailhead without a car?
Yes. NJ Transit bus 9A runs from Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to Alpine, making this one of the most transit-accessible hikes in the region. Check NJ Transit schedules for current times and stops.
How far is the walk to Greenbrook Falls from the Alpine Boat Basin?
Greenbrook Falls is approximately 2 km from the Alpine Boat Basin, making the round-trip about 4 km — a 1.5 to 2-hour outing with time at the falls.
How difficult is the Shore Trail?
The Shore Trail is largely flat at river level, but the boulder-strewn surface is tiring on ankles and demands careful footing throughout. The trail is classified moderate due to rough terrain rather than elevation change.
Are there facilities along the Palisades Shore Trail?
Restrooms and a seasonal snack bar are available at the Alpine Boat Basin. No other facilities exist along the trail until the George Washington Bridge area in Fort Lee, approximately 14.5 km south.