NORVIN GREEN STATE FOREST
The undisturbed forest and rugged terrain of Norvin Green offers sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. Part of the Wyanokie Wilderness Area, the forest is near Wanaque Reservoir and is home to an extensive trail system built from old logging roads. Several trails link up with public and private facilities, including the Weis Ecology Center and reservoir property. The existing trails, either old forest roads or new trails constructed by volunteers, are perfect for nature walks and other outdoor classroom activities. With hills ranging from 400 to 1,300 feet in elevation, Norvin Green provides the avid hiker with scenic vistas, including the New York skyline, Burnt Meadow Brook and Lake Sonoma. The property is accessible by foot only.
Norvin Green State Forest is a 5,416-acre state forest located in northern New Jersey, primarily in Passaic County. The area that comprises the forest was originally settled by the Lenape Native American tribe for thousands of years before European colonization.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the land that is now Norvin Green State Forest was utilized for farming and logging. Numerous small villages and mills were established in the region, taking advantage of the natural resources available. However, over time, the land was gradually abandoned and left to regenerate naturally.
During the early 20th century, as urbanization and industrialization intensified in the region, there was a growing recognition of the need to preserve natural areas. In response to the increasing demand for recreation and conservation, the state of New Jersey began acquiring parcels of land in the area, with the intention of creating a state forest.
The 1940s and 1950s saw the acquisition and consolidation of various properties in the vicinity, culminating in the establishment of Norvin Green State Forest in 1962. The forest was named after Port Authority Commissioner Norvin H. Green, an influential advocate for the creation of green spaces in New Jersey.
Since its establishment, Norvin Green State Forest has provided ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. Its diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, rocky slopes, and cascading waterfalls, make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
The forest also plays a vital role in protecting local water supplies, as it contains several tributaries of the Pequannock River, which ultimately flows into the Newark Watershed. The Newark Reservoirs, which provide drinking water to the city, are situated downstream from the forest, making water quality preservation a primary objective.