I hesitated that day. The sky hung heavy with the promise of rain, casting doubt on our outdoor plans. Yet, after too many days confined to the apartment, the urge to explore outweighed the threat of impending showers. For some time, we’d harbored a desire to witness the waterfall along the Passaic River, and we deemed this the moment to seize the opportunity.
Finding our way to Paterson Great Falls proved easier than anticipated, despite the maze of narrow, twisting roads. These meandering paths eventually led us to the historic gem nestled beside the rushing waters of the Passaic.
Arriving around 3pm, we encountered a bustling scene as students spilled from their classrooms and campuses, ushering in a flurry of traffic as parents converged for pickups. While I wasn’t behind the wheel, I found myself entranced by the surroundings, drawn, as always, to the allure of old, storied structures and graceful architecture. Drawing nearer to the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, I marveled at the red-orange brick buildings that seemed to echo the architectural themes of the area.
Despite the lack of crowds upon our arrival, the journey proved more than worthwhile. To my eyes, Paterson Falls appeared a miniature counterpart to Niagara, inviting public exploration and admiration alike. A designated lookout provided a vantage point from which to behold the cascading waters, while nearby, a preserved power plant offered sanctuary to winged inhabitants.
My gaze lingered on the plant until a pathway caught my attention, promising a closer encounter with the falls. Descending the stairs, we traversed to the opposite side, flanked by the main road and the bridge spanning the tumultuous Passaic River below. En route, we passed a pair of enamored souls seeking solace on a nearby bench until our arrival disrupted their reverie.
Approaching a footbridge, our progress was halted by a sign barring further passage. Yet, to our left, the frothy rapids collided with the water below, an exhilarating display of nature’s raw power. Entranced by the scene, I felt a profound connection with the natural world, experiencing a sense of harmony akin to the “dao.”
Reluctantly tearing myself away, we retraced our steps, eventually returning to the parking area where a statue of Alexander Hamilton stood sentinel, commemorating the site’s designation as a historic and national landmark. Here, in Paterson City, America’s journey into industrial prominence, as envisioned by Hamilton, began.
Departing the park, we made a solemn vow to return and explore its unseen corners. For those yet to experience its wonders, I urge you to embark on this short journey; it is sure to enrich your day. As for me, another breathtaking sight has been etched from my bucket list, though I suspect a return visit is all but inevitable, for some experiences are simply too exquisite to savor only once.
