MEADOWLANDS TOURS:

The thriving marshes and vast recreational opportunities along the Hackensack River are the best kept secret of the 30.4 square mile Meadowlands District.  Whether it is a guided tour of the wetlands by boat, a short hike through different habitats, or enjoying the wild flowers and lush vegetation in one of our parks, the Meadowlands District has something for you.

Helping visitors discover the hidden wonders of the Meadowlands is a free guide “Birding and Wildlife Trails: Meadowlands and More.”  This 72-page full color guide features site descriptions, seasonal viewing forecasts, driving directions, public transportation options and guidelines for catch-and-release fishing throughout the Hackensack River Watershed area.  To request a copy, call (888) NJM-BIRD.

Pontoon Boat Tours
The NJMC has been increasing the number of visitors who explore the Meadowlands each year. The NJMC operates a fleet of pontoon boats, staffed by experts on the natural and human history of the region and certified in boating through programs by the U.S. Coast Guard and the State of New Jersey.

NJMC pontoon boats are a leisurely way to experience the Hackensack River. Warmer weather and longer days make the spring and summer a perfect time to join NJMC for a narrated evening cruise with the New York City skyline as a backdrop. Learn about shore birds, salt marshes, the Lenni Lenape Indians, pirates and history along the banks of the River.

Launching from the River Barge Park and Marina in Carlstadt, these two-hour evening tours are conducted by trained captains and hosted by NJMC staff, each with a unique story to tell about the Meadowlands.

The suggested minimum donation is $15 per person.  Pre-registration is required. The pontoon boats feature comfortable seating for 12.  We welcome adults and children ages 10 and up. Special cruises are available for educational, civic, and other groups.

Click here to download a registration form and cruise schedule.
For the Hackensack River guide and directions click here.

For more information or to register for an NJMC pontoon boat cruise or canoe tour, call (201) 460-4640.

Canoe Tours
For a more adventurous, closer look into the tidal creeks and marshes, join us for a canoe excursion.  Experience our unique ecosystem from the vantage point of the open water.  

The tours launch from the Mill Creek Point Park in Secaucus and Hudson County Park at Laurel Hill in Secaucus.  They explore Mill Creek Marsh, the Sawmill Creek Wildlife Management Area, and more.  Canoeing can be enjoyed by people of all ages.  We supply all equipment and give you helpful tips before setting out on the water. 

Click here to download a registration form and tour schedule.
For a Canoe guide and directions click here.

Canoes are provided at a cost of $15 per person.  Pre-registration is required. Groups are welcome.  For more information or to book a tour, please call (201) 460-4640.

Walking Tours
Experience our transforming environment when you take a walking tour of Richard W. DeKorte Park. Chose an easy or intermediate trail where you can discover the beauty of our salt marshes.  Explore on your own or join a guided tour. Whether you visit us in the winter, spring, summer, or fall you’ll be thrilled to find an amazing diversity of vegetation and wildlife. You can see leaves change, birds migrate, animal mothers care for their young, and flowers bloom.  Come at dawn, dusk, or somewhere in between and you’ll catch the natural rhythms of the day.

A trail guide for Richard W. DeKorte Park can be downloaded from our document archive.