Description

Unnamed Waterfall on Clinton Brook 1 is a large waterfall located below Clinton Falls, and an additional, but much smaller, unnamed waterfall. This unnamed waterfall is a large cascading drop into a large pool. It is honestly one of the most impressive waterfalls in New Jersey due to its size and surrounding scenery.

Unlike the other waterfalls on Clinton Brook, this one is fairly easy to view. An obvious, unmarked ATV trail leads to a clear, head-on view of the falls. A short and somewhat steep, yet still relatively easy, trail takes hikers down to the water if desired. From this overlook, you can also see the unnamed waterfall just upstream as well. For those wanting to get a little closer, there is another unmarked, yet more challenging trail that takes visitors to the side of the pool.

One of the most distinctive features of Clinton Brook’s waterfalls, is the reddish rock around them. Water flowing over the rock oxidizes the iron in the sandstone bedrock, creating the vibrant color.

Directions and Parking

Despite its proximity to the road, access is challenging. Because the waterfall is in the Pequannock Watershed, hikers must obtain a permit. Furthermore, parking is limited to designated spaces, which are labeled on the trail map. Despite the numerous pull-offs along Clinton Road, there is no official parking near the falls. I found it easiest to park in the P1 parking area and bushwhack roughly 0.25-0.5 miles toward the falls. Fortunately, an unofficial purple trail has been spray-painted to help guide the way, though it is nowhere near perfect. I strongly recommend avoiding Clinton Road itself, as it is fast-moving and local police may give you a hard time because of the road’s haunted reputation. The immediate area around Clinton Falls features a clear ATV path.

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