Great Falls, National Natural Landmark waterfall in Paterson, US.
The Great Falls of the Passaic River spans 260 feet in width and drops 77 feet through a gorge formed by basalt rock formations.
Alexander Hamilton selected this location in 1791 as the site for the first planned industrial city in America due to the water power potential.
The falls supported numerous textile mills and manufacturing facilities that shaped Paterson into a major industrial center during the 19th century.
The National Historical Park maintains several viewing platforms and walking trails that provide different perspectives of the waterfall throughout the seasons.
The water flow through the falls generates hydroelectric power while maintaining its status as the second-largest waterfall by volume east of Mississippi River.
Location: Paterson
Part of: Passaic River, Great Falls of Paterson-Garret Mountain
GPS coordinates: 40.91619,-74.18160
Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:47
New Jersey contains numerous historical sites that often remain overlooked near major metropolitan areas. The state features restored mills from the 18th and 19th centuries, nature reserves with native wildlife, and preserved colonial buildings. The coastal region offers working lighthouses, while the interior is characterized by parks and forests. Attractions include traditional villages with craft workshops, former industrial facilities, and gardens with regional plants. Hiking trails traverse various landscapes, from marshlands to wooded hills. Several locations provide views of the New York or Philadelphia skylines. These sites document the state's industrial, agricultural, and maritime history. Museums present collections on local development, while parks offer recreational opportunities in natural settings. The sites are distributed throughout the state and showcase different aspects of regional identity.
Hinchliffe Stadium
239 m
Lambert Castle
2 km
Garret Mountain Reservation
1.9 km
Dey Mansion
4.3 km
Paterson Museum
371 m
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
853 m
Paterson Armory
1.9 km
Rifle Camp Park
3.5 km
Paterson City Hall
818 m
Pietro and Maria Botto House
2.2 km
Passaic County Court House
900 m
Goffle Brook Park
3.8 km
St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church
579 m
Ailsa Farms
3.3 km
Public School Number Two
383 m
Danforth Memorial Library
1.5 km
Garretson Forge and Farm
4.4 km
Arch Street Bridge
1.3 km
Daniel Thompson and John Ryle Houses
278 m
Straight Street Bridge
1.7 km
West Broadway Bridge
773 m
Hillery Street Bridge
2.1 km
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
118 m
Van Houten House
870 m
John W. Ferguson House
3 km
Great Falls of the Passaic and Society for Useful Manufactures Historic District
107 m
Passaic County Court House and United States Custom House and Post Office Historic District
893 m
US 46 Passaic River Bridge
4.3 kmReviews
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