Palisades Interstate Park to reopen in New Jersey amid coronavirus crisis

One of North Jersey's most popular outdoor destinations — Palisades Interstate Park — will partially reopen Saturday with strict rules after being closed for three weeks due to the COVID-19 outbreak, officials said Friday.

Park officials made the decision following Gov. Phil Murphy's order this week to reopen state parks. The New York side has remained open during the outbreak.

"Even during the current public health crisis, people need fresh air and exercise in order to stay physically and emotionally healthy," said Joshua Laird, executive director of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission.

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Stretching for 12 miles from Fort Lee to the state line in Alpine, Palisades Interstate Park is one of the most popular destinations for hikers, bicyclists and those looking to enjoy its panoramic views of the Hudson River and George Washington Bridge.

The new rules for the park are closely aligned with those for state parks, such as requiring visitors to wear cloth face coverings while in the park and maintain social distancing of at least six feet between people. Organized sports and other group activities are prohibited.

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Among the programs and areas that will remain closed are:

• Picnic areas, playgrounds, pavilions, restrooms and visitor centers
• The Kearney House
• The popular Giant Stairs section of the Shore Trail.

"It remains crucial that visitors follow public health guidelines for social distancing and for wearing face coverings so that our parks can remain open without contributing to a further spread of the COVID-19 virus,” Laird said.

Cars can only access the park via the entrances in Englewood Cliffs and Alpine.

Parking lots will be limited to 50% of their capacity.

The “Lookout Inn” refreshment stand at the State Line Lookout will be open but only for takeout orders.

Scott Fallon covers the environment for NorthJersey.com. To get unlimited access to the latest news about how New Jersey’s environment affects your health and well-being,  please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: fallon@northjersey.com Twitter: @newsfallon