Basic Information

Before and throughout your visit, "Plan like a Park Ranger" and know before you go!

VIP Terry McKenna

Welcome to Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park!

While the park is open every day, some park facilities and paths are closed during the winter. Plan like a Park Ranger - always check current conditions before visiting. Please explore the information below for information about our location, operating hours and seasons, welcome center, and more.

Select the drop down menus below to start planning your visit:

 

Physical Address

Directions

Weather

Spring and Fall weather can be cool, while summer is usually warm and humid. Winter is frequently snowy and cold. It is recommended that visitors dress for the weather. Visitors may need jackets or rain gear as the park is primarily outdoors and unsheltered during inclement weather. Please keep any rain gear/umbrellas with you during your visit. Additional tips and information can be found on our weather webpage.

National Weather Service 7-Day Forecast for the Paterson region

Fees & Passes

There is no charge or fee to visit the park. Several nearby muncipal garages do charge for parking.

We currently do not sell park passes - the nearest site which does is Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, NJ. For additional information, click here.

Visitor Centers

There is currently no visitor center. We are without indoor facilities pending new visitor center construction. Portable toilets are available 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM staff permitting. National Park Passport stamps are available at the administrative office at our main address.

Internet & Cellular Access

Internet & Cellular Access Details

 

NPS

Rangers & Staff

Rangers are in the park during operating hours as noted below - weather permitting, they will be roving and staffing an orientation table outside with a stamping station. When weather does not permit, the Rangers rove throughout the park over the course of the day. You may also knock/ring the doorbell of the brick two-story Administrative Office at the main park address during operating hours for passport stamps or assistance.

Operating Hours & Seasons

Park grounds are available 24 hours a day. The best time to visit is between sunrise and sunset. The City of Paterson may close the Overlook Park lot after dark situationally. For detailed information, including staff and restroom availability, check our full operating hours and seasonal schedule.

Please Note:
There is currently no visitor center. We are without indoor facilities pending new visitor center construction. Portable toilets are available 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM staff permitting. National Park Passport stamps are available at the administrative office at our main address.

Rules & Regulations

Drone use is prohibited in the park - see our permits and reservations page for full details. Smoking, alcohol consumption, barbecues, open fires, and fireworks are also prohibited on park grounds.

Pack it in, Pack it out! Practice Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan Ahead & Prepare
  • Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit. Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies, and repackage food to minimize waste.

• Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces - there are no camping facilities at Paterson Great Falls

• Dispose of Waste Properly
  • Pack it in, pack it out. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.

• Leave What You Find
  • Preserve the past: examine, but don't touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species and do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

 

Park regulations and Leave No Trace principals protect park resources, wildlife, and you. Help preserve and protect the park for today and tomorrow

NPS

• Minimize Campfire Impacts - campfires, barbeques, and grills are prohibited at Paterson Great Falls

• Respect Wildlife
  • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals - feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers. Control your pets at all times (or leave them at home) and Aavoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

• Be Considerate of Other Visitors
  • Be courteous - respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

 

Permits & Reservations

Some activities require a permit for special use of park resources. Know before you go - before planning commercial or event photography, weddings or large gatherings, and other activities, review our permits and reservations webpage.

Pets

Pets are welcome in National Parks, but must follow guidelines to ensure visitor, resource, and wildlife safety. When bringing pets to Paterson Great Falls, they must be on six-foot non-retractable leashes, and all waste must be collected and disposed of properly. For more information, including the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, explore our pets webpage.

Goods & Services

Paterson Great Falls is located within the City of Paterson - many goods and services are available. For links to restaurant searchs, the Chamber of Commerce, and a list of post offices, review our goods and services resources.