We visited the largest waterfall in New Jersey one icy winter weekend, which is located in the city of Paterson. The 77 foot falls are located in the historic district, with a parking lot across from the falls with a viewing area, and a walkway up and across the river.
The park was designated as a National Historic Park in 2009, is free to enter, and offers ranger led guided tours, self guided tours, a welcome center, and children’s programs.
You may notice the statue of Alexander Hamilton. This is because he founded the town of Paterson, named after it’s governor, William Paterson, as the first planned industrial city. In the late 1700’s and throughout the 1800’s, the power of the falls was used at different times to spin cotton; make paper, weapons, and silk; power a train; and even used in the creation of the Holland Submarine.
Prior to colonization, the falls were located in the homeland of the Lenni Lenape Indians, and visitors came from far and near to witness the beauty and power of the falls.
