Visit Us
Explore 55 acres of pristine woodlands, streams, and trails in the heart of Demarest
Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Trails are open during daylight hours. Office hours may vary for holidays.
Location
Demarest Nature Center
90 Park Street
Demarest, NJ 07627
Mailing Address:
Box 41
Demarest, NJ 07627
Email: [email protected]
Admission
FREE
The nature center and trails are free and open to the public. Donations are greatly appreciated and help us maintain the preserve and provide educational programs.
Make a DonationDirections
From New York City
- Take the George Washington Bridge to NJ
- Take the Palisades Interstate Parkway North
- Exit at Closter Dock Road (Exit 3)
- Turn right onto Closter Dock Road
- Turn left onto County Road
- Turn right onto Park Street
- Demarest Nature Center will be on your right at 90 Park Street
From Northern New Jersey
- Take Route 9W South
- Turn right onto County Road
- Turn left onto Park Street
- Demarest Nature Center will be on your right at 90 Park Street
Parking
Free parking is available on-site. During special events, additional parking may be available on nearby streets. Please follow all posted parking signs.
Public Transportation
NJ Transit bus service is available to Demarest. Check NJ Transit for current schedules and routes. The nature center is approximately a 10-minute walk from the nearest bus stop.
Our Trails
Explore over 2 miles of well-maintained trails through diverse habitats including mature forests, wetlands, and meadows. Our trails are perfect for hiking, bird watching, nature study, and peaceful walks.
Main Loop Trail
Our most popular trail loops through the heart of the preserve, offering scenic views of woodlands and a peaceful stream. Well-marked and maintained, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Mostly flat terrain with gentle slopes
- Interpretive signs along the route
- Excellent bird watching opportunities
- Seasonal wildflowers in spring
Trestle Bridge Trail
Follow this scenic trail to our historic trestle bridge, crossing over a beautiful stream. One of our most photographed locations, especially beautiful in autumn.
- Historic trestle bridge viewpoint
- Stream access for ecology studies
- Excellent for photography
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
Woodland Loop
A shorter trail perfect for families with young children or those seeking a quick nature escape. Winds through mature hardwood forest with opportunities to observe native plants and wildlife.
- Short and accessible
- Great for beginning hikers
- Mushroom spotting in fall
- Shaded canopy year-round
Meadow Trail
Experience open meadow habitat with native grasses and wildflowers. Particularly beautiful in late spring and summer when wildflowers bloom. Excellent for butterfly watching.
- Open meadow habitat
- Butterfly and pollinator garden
- Seasonal wildflowers
- Sunny trail with minimal shade
Trail Map
Download our trail map to help navigate the preserve:
Download Trail Map (PDF)Trail maps are also available at the visitor center entrance.
Visitor Guidelines
To ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all visitors and to protect our natural environment, please follow these guidelines:
Stay on Trails
Please remain on marked trails to protect sensitive habitats and prevent erosion. Shortcuts damage vegetation and wildlife habitats.
Leave No Trace
Carry out all trash and recyclables. Do not leave food scraps, even organic materials, as they can attract unwanted wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance. Do not feed, approach, or disturb wildlife. Keep voices low to avoid startling animals.
Pets
Pets must be leashed at all times. Please clean up after your pet and dispose of waste in designated receptacles.
Plants & Natural Objects
Do not pick flowers, remove plants, or collect natural objects like rocks, feathers, or mushrooms. Leave them for others to enjoy and for ecological balance.
Safety
Stay aware of your surroundings. Watch for uneven terrain, roots, and rocks. Trails may be slippery when wet. Stay on trails and notify staff of any hazards.
Weather Awareness
Check weather conditions before visiting. In case of severe weather, thunderstorms, or other dangerous conditions, seek shelter immediately.
Groups
Large groups (10+ people) should contact us in advance to ensure a quality experience for all visitors. School and organization groups require advance registration.
What to Bring
Essentials
- Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Recommended
- Insect repellent (especially spring through fall)
- Binoculars for bird watching
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Field guides for plant and bird identification
- Small backpack or daypack
Seasonal Considerations
- Spring: Rain jacket, boots for muddy trails
- Summer: Extra water, light-colored clothing, tick checks
- Fall: Layers for changing temperatures
- Winter: Warm clothing, gloves, hat, traction footwear for icy conditions
Accessibility
We strive to make Demarest Nature Center accessible to all visitors. While many of our trails are natural surfaces with variable terrain, we are committed to accommodating visitors of all abilities.
- The Main Loop Trail has relatively flat sections suitable for visitors with mobility considerations
- Accessible parking is available near the visitor center
- Service animals are welcome
- Benches and rest areas are located along trails
- For specific accessibility questions or to arrange accommodations, please contact us in advance at [email protected]
Interactive Trail Guide
Do you ever find yourself walking through the woods and wondering about the trees around you or the history of the area?
EcoExplorer is a tool to help you become a bit more aware or just to add some background knowledge as you explore the Demarest Nature Center.
Here's how it works. As you walk, look for a QR code posted along the trail for these landmarks:
Use your camera app to scan the QR code, then click on the link that appears. You can read or listen along. More QR codes and content will be added over the seasons.
This content is primarily designed with kids in mind, but it's accessible to all ages. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom for some extra fun features.
EcoExplorer is a project by Amrita Kumar. More QR codes and content will be added over the seasons. Please contact us if you have a feature you'd like to see included.
Plan Your Visit
Make the most of your time at Demarest Nature Center