Basic Information
Link to AllTrails for White Shore and Long Path Loop
Date of hike: 11/22/2020 and 4/18/2021
Difficulty level: hard
Distance: 4.1 mile loop
Elevation gain: 767 feet
Location: Palisades Interstate Park, Bergen County, Alpine, NJ – hike begins at the State Line Lookout
Parking – large parking lot
Our rating: 5+
History
The Palisades are a line of steep cliffs that stretch about 20 miles long and rise to 540 feet in elevation, providing a gorgeous view of New York City. They were designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in June 1983.
The Giant Stairs was designated a hike in the 1920s. It is a mile-long rock scrambling section of the White Shore and Long Path Loop that is the result of rock columns that have been stripped away over the centuries. It is the most challenging and beautiful hike on the Palisades.
The hike begins at the State Line Lookout, which is a refreshment stand and gift shop that was built in 1937. A bathroom is available inside. On May 12, 2012, there was a 10,000 ton rockfall that left a 520 foot scar on the cliffs. For more information visit New York Times website.
Interesting Fact
The Palisades were the site of many famous duels, including the one between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, which took place on July 11, 1804.
Our Impressions
Who knew that gorgeous challenging hikes exist only an hour away from home with gorgeous views of the NYC skyline? Scary at first but, second time around, we did this loop clockwise then counterclockwise for the exercise in record time.
After hiking, you can enjoy the beautiful nearby NJ towns of Alpine, Closter, and Tenafly. The village of Piermont, NY is also nearby and offers gorgeous views of the Hudson River and Rockland County.
Our First Giant Stairs Palisades Hike 11/22/2020
Our Second Giant Stairs Palisades Hike 04/18/2021
