Borg's Woods Nature Preserve - Hackensack, NJ
Borg's Woods Nature Preserve – Dog-Friendly Trails in Hackensack, NJ
Looking for a dog-friendly hiking spot in Hackensack, NJ? Borg’s Woods Nature Preserve offers a natural escape in the heart of suburbia, with easy walking trails perfect for pet owners and their furry companions. While not a traditional dog park, it's a quiet sanctuary where leashed dogs can enjoy dirt paths, natural scenery, and the occasional sighting of deer or birds.
The preserve is best known for its peaceful wooded setting and simple amenities: scenic trails, benches for rest, and plenty of shade from mature trees. It does not have fenced dog runs or separate areas for big and small dogs, but visitors can explore the entire preserve together. The park is open most of the day and offers an easy hike for visitors of all ages, though keep in mind it can be muddy after rain and there are no restroom facilities or water fountains.
FAQ
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are welcome but must remain on leash while in the preserve.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches along the trails for visitors to rest.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The wooded area provides ample natural shade throughout the trails.
- Where is the best place to park? There is no designated parking lot; visitors should park along nearby residential streets.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, trails can become muddy following a period of rain.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve consists of several nature trails suitable for walking with dogs.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the preserve is open year-round during daylight hours.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Maintenance is limited and some areas may have litter or appear unkept.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? No, there are no restroom facilities at the preserve.
Reviews
Off the beaten path nature center. This is basically a secluded nature walk on dirt paths through the woods. All that is missing are the bread crumbs left by Hansel and Gretel. I spotted deer hoof prints in a muddy section of path. (See photo and look closely) There are birds, wildflowers and other animal life, ESPECIALLY mosquitos. Unless you have spray you will be eaten alive if you visit on a hot muggy day following a period of rain. No facilities. There’s at least a couple of entry points. Mine is to take Allen Street off E. Spring Valley Ave, one block west of Summit Avenue. There’s only a tiny sign on Spring Valley for the preserve so look closely.
Really nice, not to big easy to walk around and explore, good place to go and regenerate after work, or just walk the wood and listen to the sounds of nature. If you get lucky you can see some animals,
Nice little woods to walk around. Easy trail for children and can see deer. Just sad how much trash there is along the paths.
Nothing extravagant or extraordinary. Just a pleasant little sanctuary in the middle of suburbia. It’s been cleaned up and organized recently. Spring and summer when trees are full it’s a nice feeling to be removed from the city if only for a moment. There’s a little clearing with a bench where you can do some stretching/exercises while communing with nature. Maybe if they would put some unobtrusive garbage cans at the entrances people would be less inclined to leave there garbage.
1. Walkability – The preserve has potential, but the trails are not clearly marked, which can be a bit confusing. Google Maps also doesn’t show the correct entrance, so finding your way in might take some effort.
2. Photography – Not ideal for photography at the moment. The area feels neglected, with some litter on the paths, many cut trees, and a lack of visible wildlife like birds or squirrels, or flowers.
3. Maintenance – Unfortunately, the preserve appears poorly maintained. Trails and surroundings feel unkept and could really use more care.
4. Parking – There is no designated parking area. Visitors must park along nearby residential streets.
5. Hours – Open most of the day.
Overall: Borg’s Woods has a lot of natural potential, but it currently feels under-maintained and overlooked. With better upkeep, it could become a much more enjoyable spot for locals and nature lovers alike.