A popular hiking destination at Palisades Interstate Park may remain closed for several months following a major rock slide that forced the shutdown of the Giant Stairs area last week.
As first reported by Monsey Scoop on January 10th, the Giant Stairs trail was closed after a significant rockfall near the State Line Lookout.
Park officials later confirmed that the closure could extend well into the coming months. On Wednesday, the superintendent overseeing the New Jersey side of the park said the extent of the rockfall requires a full assessment of both the damage and the overall stability of the terrain, including the stone stair sections used by hikers.
Officials indicated the trail could remain closed until spring, allowing time for winter conditions to pass and for engineers and park staff to safely evaluate the area before reopening.
The Giant Stairs is a roughly 4.3-mile hiking area located in Alpine, Bergen County, known for its challenging terrain made up of massive boulders that have fallen from the Palisades cliffs over time. The trail is especially popular for its sweeping views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline, drawing hikers from across the region.
Park representatives noted that the trail has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, increasing the importance of ensuring visitor safety before reopening. Updates will be provided once assessments are completed and a reopening timeline is determined.