Exploring Rifle Camp Park’s Woodland Nature Trail

Many visitors to Woodland Park’s Rifle Camp Park are familiar with the Red and Yellow Loops, but few realize there is a short nature trail tucked between several parking areas and the under-construction nature center. In fact, this trail does not even appear on the park map. The educational trail includes 18 interpretive signs that highlight both the park’s current and historical natural environment. Although the trail is short, it is ideal for families with children or anyone seeking a quick and informative walk. Continue reading to learn more about the Woodland Nature Trail at Rifle Camp Park.

Background

The Woodlands Nature Trail is a relatively recent addition to Rifle Camp Park. The trail was constructed by the Friends of Garret Mountain Reservation in collaboration with Passaic County Parks.

The land that would eventually become Rifle Camp Park, along with the neighboring Garret Mountain Reservation, was initially acquired by Passaic County in the 1920s. Additional parcels were acquired over the following decades. During this period, the expanding parkland was formally divided into two areas, Garret Mountain Reservation and what would later be named Rifle Camp Park. These parks are currently only separated by Weaseldrift Road and a now-demolished bank. Development of Rifle Camp Park progressed slowly, and the park was ultimately completed in 1973 under a master plan by the Kinsey Associates.

The park takes its name from a brief Revolutionary War encampment in 1780 at Great Notch, where Continental Army troops were positioned to guard the pass. Great Notch is a natural gap in the First Watchung Mountain, approximately where Route 46 runs today. Although this site lies just south of the current park boundaries, the park was still named “Rifle Camp Park.”

The Walk

The Woodland Nature Trail can be reached from several parking areas, but it is easiest to begin at either the final teardrop parking area at the end of the park driveway or the unnamed parking lot just before it. These two locations provide the clearest access to the trail. You can also reach the trail from the Carnie Bragg parking area, though the path is a bit harder to locate from there.

The official start of the trail is near the teardrop parking area, but it does not matter where you enter, and there are multiple side entrances.

Along the trail you will find 18 informational signs that cover a wide range of topics related to the park’s natural history and its current plants and animals.

Visitors interested in tree identification will find that most trees along the route are labeled.

Although the trail is not officially marked, it is very easy to follow because it is lined with stones. You will also be close to one of the informational signs at almost any point, and these can serve as informal markers.

There are also a few short boardwalk sections that cross areas that are seasonally wet.

Review

If you want a short and informative walk, especially with kids, the Woodlands Nature Trail is an excellent option. It stands out as one of the best nature trails I have visited because of the number and quality of its signs. If you prefer a longer or more challenging walk, or if you are not interested in reading informational signs, a different excursion would be better. The Yellow Loop in the same park is a better choice for a more substantial hike.