For years I've been driving east/west on I-80 in New Jersey and seen the signs. Finally, last week I took the time to stop and WOW so glad I did!!

The Great Falls of the Passaic River is a prominent waterfall, 77 feet (23 m) high, on the Passaic River in the city of Paterson in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. The falls and surrounding area are protected as part of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, administered by the National Park Service. The Congress authorized its establishment in 2009.[3]One of the United States' largest waterfalls, it played a significant role in the early industrial development of New Jersey starting in the earliest days of the nation. It is part of the Great Falls of Paterson–Garret Mountain National Natural Landmark.[4] It has also been designated as a National Historic Landmark District since 1976.[5][6] The Great Falls' raceway and power systems were designated an Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1977.- From Wikipedia

It was so amazing to see these incredible magnificent waterfalls located in this urban setting. The National Park is still in the process of being completed. When it is completed, not only will it house the waterfalls, but also one of the last remaining Negro Baseball League stadium, a welcome center, hiking trails, and restored historic warehouse buildings (the Colt Gun and Silk factories.)

Just a block away is the Patterson Museum, which is definitely worth visiting.

Paterson Museum is a museum in Paterson, in Passaic County, New Jersey, in the United States. Founded in 1925, it is owned and run by the city of Paterson and its mission is to preserve and display the industrial history of Paterson. It is located in the Old Great Falls Historic District.Since 1982 the museum has been housed in the Thomas Rogers Building on Market Street, the former erecting shop of Rogers Locomotive and Machine Works, a major 19th-century manufacturer of railroad steam locomotives. - Wikipedia

At the top of one trails there was what seemed like an abandoned community swimming pool.

At the other end of the waterfalls there were these beautiful Cherry Blossom Trees in full bloom!!

The city of Patterson, NJ is seeing a resurgence because of the popularity of Alexander Hamilton, it's founder in 1791.

In 1791 Alexander Hamilton (1755/57–1804), first United States Secretary of the Treasury, helped found the Society for the Establishment of Useful Manufactures (S.U.M.), which helped encourage the harnessing of energy from the Great Falls of the Passaic River to secure economic independence from British manufacturers. Paterson, which was founded by the society, became the cradle of the industrial revolution in America.[25] Paterson was named for William Paterson, statesman, signer of the Constitutionand Governor of New Jersey who signed the 1792 charter that established the Town of Paterson. - Wikipedia

A short 10 minute drive will bring you to Garret Mountain Reservation Park. Here you will find Lambert Castle, an equestrian center, an observation tower at the top of the mountain and nice hiking trails. Well worth the side trip.

If you are in the area of Patterson, NJ take the time to stop and visit. Yo will not be disappointed!!

Please Upvote, Comment and Follow I really appreciate the support and encouragement to post more content consistently!

--------------------------------------------Promotion------------------------------------------

Never give up on your dreams ✨✨....... successful businesses take time to build and lots off hard work 💪🏻💪🏻...... Never give up on your passion & vision make them a reality⬆️⬆️....... Have a Great Day!💐💐 We have one life to live. Feeling like you’re stuck in a JOB that doesn't feed your soul, doesn't pay you what you're worth, and doesn't give you time and financial freedom. This is not a life. There's a better way!
I'm here to help if you are looking to break free like I have!

Click the link in my bio to find out more -----> . . . . .

Thanks for viewing and reading my post.
_________________________________________________________________

To see more of my photos please visit my Instagram.

Thanks James @JourneyFreedom