Wyanokie Circular Loop/Highlands Trail

Wyanokie Circular Loop/Highlands Trail is a rugged Highlands hike in Norvin Green State Forest built around the Highlands Trail and the Wyanokie Circulation Loop system. Expect relentless rocky up-and-down with occasional scrambling and technical slabby sections where traction matters.

This classic route is about 7.5 miles with roughly 1,509 feet of elevation gain and usually takes around 4 to 4.5 hours. The length makes it a solid half-day commitment even if you move well.

The route climbs through Norvin Green State Forest to Wyanokie High Point (about 1,140 feet). The top is a 360-degree viewpoint area with open rock slabs where you can move around for different angles; on clear days you can see the NYC skyline and the Wanaque Reservoir area.

On the loop, plan on water features that can be especially good after rain: Otter Hole and Chikahoki Falls are both on the route. Sections near the falls are close enough to the water that you’ll be managing wet rock and streamside ground at times.

Navigation is typically done by linking a few marked trail segments: start from the Otter Hole Parking Lot on Glenwild Ave., then follow the red-black connector to the Wyanokie Circular Trail (Red). From there you connect through the Lower Trail and then take the Highlands Trail (Teal) up to Wyanokie High Point before descending back through the loop system.

Trail conditions in the NJ Highlands matter for footwear choice: slick bare rock slabs and slanted rock faces can be especially hazardous when wet. Tread/traction and controlled footing are the main performance factors on this route.

More information: Map, Wyanokie High Point, Carris Hill, Buck Mountain | njHiking.com, Highlands Trail - New York-New Jersey Trail Conference