Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation

For those of us in New Jersey who cherish both the beauty of nature and the intrigue of history, the hiking areas along the Palisades offer an unparalleled experience. Among these, the site of Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation in Alpine, NJ, stands out as a particularly captivating destination. This isn't just a hike; it's a journey back in time, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of a once-grand estate, nestled within the breathtaking landscape of the Palisades Interstate Park. It's a place where the stories of New Jersey's affluent past literally rise from the earth, providing a unique backdrop for an outdoor adventure. This article aims to guide you through what makes this hiking area so special, highlighting its historical significance, accessibility, and why it's a must-visit for locals seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration.

Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation refers to the impressive ruins of what was once an opulent 15-room mansion, built in 1911 as a summer home for wealthy businessman George Zabriskie on a 25-acre cliffside property overlooking the Hudson River. Originally part of "Millionaire's Row," a collection of grand estates lining the Palisades cliffs, Cliff Dale Manor (as it was also known) was later purchased by J.D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1930. Rockefeller, intending to preserve the natural skyline of the Palisades, donated the property to the Palisades Interstate Park Commission with a stipulation for its demolition. While the upper floors were indeed torn down by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1939, a substantial portion of the two-story stone foundation, built directly into the hillside, proved too difficult to fully remove. What remains today is a majestic, castle-like ruin, including parts of the garden and intriguing stairways that lead nowhere, captivating hikers with its grandeur and historical mystery. One reviewer aptly noted, "Amazing old ruins of a home. The stairs leading up from the inside of the basement are really neat. This home must have been massive." The site offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, allowing visitors to imagine the former splendor of this cliff-top estate while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Palisades.

Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation is located within the Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine, NJ 07620, USA. While the provided address W3QG+PJ is a Google Plus Code indicating a precise location, visitors typically access the ruins via designated hiking trails within the park.

Access to the ruins is primarily by foot, through a network of trails within the Palisades Interstate Park. One common starting point for hikers is the Alpine Lookout or the Alpine Boat Basin. From the Alpine Lookout parking area, an aqua-blazed trail (part of the Long Path) leads directly to the ruins, approximately half a mile north of the parking area. Alternatively, for those seeking a longer hike, starting from the Alpine Boat Basin allows for a more extensive exploration of the park's diverse trails before reaching the ruins. It's important to note that some parking areas within Palisades Interstate Park may have a fee, especially during peak seasons, so it's advisable to bring cash or check park regulations beforehand. One reviewer suggested an alternate, free parking area at 14 Old Dock Rd, Alpine, NJ 07620, which connects directly to the trail leading to the ruins. To reach this, visitors should go "underneath the two overhead highway bridges and then make a right onto the dark green marked Long Trail." The trails leading to the foundation can involve varied terrain, from moderate to potentially rugged and uneven, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Its location high atop the cliffs also ensures spectacular views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline from various points along the trails, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

As a historical site located within a preserved park, Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation does not offer traditional "services" like visitor centers or restrooms directly at the ruin site. However, the Palisades Interstate Park system, which encompasses the ruins, provides several amenities that enhance the hiking experience.

Services Offered (provided by Palisades Interstate Park):

• Maintained Hiking Trails: The ruins are accessible via well-maintained and marked trails within the Palisades Interstate Park, part of a larger network of over 30 miles of trails suitable for various difficulty levels.
• Parking Facilities: Designated parking areas are available at various access points to the park, such as Alpine Lookout and Alpine Boat Basin, providing starting points for hikes to the ruins. (Note: some may have fees).
• Scenic Overlooks: Along the trails leading to and around the ruins, visitors can find numerous vantage points offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline.
• Historical Information: While not physically at the ruins, the Palisades Interstate Park Commission provides historical context and information about the Zabriskie estate and other "Millionaire's Row" mansions through its website and potentially at park headquarters or interpretive signs elsewhere in the park.
• Guided Hikes: The Palisades Interstate Park Commission occasionally offers guided historical hikes that may include the Zabriskie ruins, providing an educational and engaging experience with an expert.

The features and highlights of Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation make it a truly unique and memorable hiking destination for locals in New Jersey.

Features / Highlights:

• Imposing Ruins: The main attraction is the "massive" two-story stone foundation of the Cliff Dale Manor, which visitors describe as "amazing old ruins of a home" and resembling an "old castle." The scale and persistence of the structure are truly impressive.
• Intriguing Architectural Remnants: Specific details like "the stairs leading up from the inside of the basement are really neat" and scattered stone columns among the trees add to the sense of exploration and discovery.
• Historical Significance: The site offers a direct connection to New Jersey's "Millionaire's Row" era and the story of George Zabriskie, J.D. Rockefeller, Jr., and the WPA's efforts to preserve the Palisades skyline. The 1911 date is even visible in the stonework.
• Scenic Hudson River Views: The ruins are perched on the Palisades cliffs, providing spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline from various points along the trails.
• Part of an Extensive Trail System: The foundation is situated along the aqua-blazed Long Path, part of the 30+ miles of trails within Palisades Interstate Park, allowing for varied hiking experiences.
• Reclaimed by Nature: The partially demolished mansion, now overgrown with vegetation, offers a picturesque example of nature reclaiming a man-made structure, creating a unique aesthetic for photographers and nature lovers. Remnants of terraced gardens and a man-made pond can also be found.

As a historical site located within a public park, Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation does not offer commercial promotions or special discounts. Its inherent "promotion" is the free and unique experience it offers to the public – a chance to explore a piece of New Jersey history intertwined with natural beauty.

However, the "offers" that locals can take advantage of typically come through the managing entity, the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. These might include:

• Free Park Access (excluding potential parking fees): The ruins themselves are freely accessible to hikers within the park, providing an enriching historical and natural experience without an entry ticket.
• Guided Historical Hikes: The Park Commission occasionally organizes free or low-cost guided hikes that specifically visit the Zabriskie ruins and delve into their history, offering an educational benefit not available through independent exploration. These events are the closest thing to a "special offer" for a deeper engagement with the site.
• Educational Resources: Information and historical narratives about the Cliff Dale Manor are often available on the Palisades Interstate Park Commission's website, allowing visitors to learn more about the site before or after their visit.

To learn about any upcoming guided hikes or special events related to the Zabriskie ruins or other historical sites within Palisades Interstate Park, New Jersey locals should regularly check the official website of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission (njpalisades.org) or their event calendars. These resources are the best way to leverage the full educational and experiential offerings associated with this remarkable historical hiking area.

For detailed information regarding Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation, hiking trails, park regulations, or guided tours within the Palisades Interstate Park, the primary contact is the Palisades Interstate Park Commission.

Address: W3QG+PJ, Alpine, NJ 07620, USA (This is the specific geographic code for the location; general park inquiries are better directed to park headquarters.)

The general contact information for the Palisades Interstate Park Commission in New Jersey is:

Phone: (201) 768-1360, x 108 (This number is often cited for historical interpreter Eric Nelsen or general park inquiries related to history and education.)

Website: njpalisades.org (The official website is the most comprehensive resource for trail maps, current conditions, historical details, and event schedules.)

It is highly recommended to consult the official website and contact the Park Commission directly for the most up-to-date information before planning your hike to the Zabriskie ruins.

Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation is exceptionally suitable for locals in New Jersey, particularly those in Bergen County and the wider tri-state area, for a compelling blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. For New Jerseyans who appreciate both outdoor activity and a deeper connection to their region's past, this site offers a unique and enriching experience.

Firstly, it provides an accessible yet challenging hiking destination right in our backyard. The trails leading to the ruins are part of the extensive and well-maintained Palisades Interstate Park system, offering opportunities for various fitness levels. Being able to embark on a picturesque hike that culminates in the discovery of such an impressive historical ruin – a "massive" and "neat" structure resembling a castle – is a rare privilege. It transforms a simple outdoor excursion into an engaging journey of exploration and discovery.

Secondly, the historical significance of the site is immense. Standing amidst the remnants of a "Millionaire's Row" mansion, one can truly grasp the scale of the past and the stories of the prominent figures who once inhabited these cliffs. The connection to George Zabriskie, J.D. Rockefeller, Jr., and the preservation efforts of the WPA adds a rich layer of cultural and historical education to the natural experience. This allows locals to connect with their regional heritage in a tangible way.

Finally, the spectacular views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline from the Palisades are a constant reward along the trails and at the ruins themselves. This combination of challenging hikes, fascinating history, and breathtaking scenery makes Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation an indispensable and truly special destination for New Jersey locals seeking to explore the beauty and heritage of their own state. It's an outdoor adventure with a story to tell, perfectly tailored for those who love both nature and history.

Zabriskie's 1911 “Cliff Dale” House Foundation

W3QG+PJ, Alpine, NJ 07620, USA