Lake and shore, West Milford, NJ

Introduction / Overview

While the initial search for “Lake and Shore” at the provided address, 55 Blakely Ln, Newfoundland, NJ 07435, points to a prominent campground in Ocean View, a closer examination of the specified Newfoundland address reveals an entirely different, yet equally cherished, local New Jersey institution: Echo Lake Stables. This location is not a traditional campground but a celebrated equestrian center and outdoor recreation haven, offering a unique and engaging outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike. Echo Lake Stables provides an authentic escape into the state’s natural beauty, specializing in guided horseback trail rides that traverse over 1,100 acres of stunning, ancient wooded trails.

Positioned in the tranquil, picturesque setting of Newfoundland in Passaic County, Echo Lake Stables has earned a reputation for its beautiful horses, scenic paths, and commitment to friendly, personalized service. It stands out in North Jersey as the go-to destination for anyone—from complete beginners to seasoned riders—looking to connect with nature on horseback. The facility is much more than just a stable; it is an adventure center that caters to families, groups, and individuals seeking engaging outdoor experiences, from traditional day rides to unique evening events.

The community prides itself on following paths steeped in history, guiding riders along trails that were once utilized by ancient Native American inhabitants, past centuries-old rock walls, mountainsides, and swiftly running streams. Open year-round, Echo Lake Stables ensures that the beauty of New Jersey’s changing seasons can be experienced from the saddle, offering a refreshing and exhilarating outdoor escape no matter the time of year.

Location and Accessibility

Echo Lake Stables is conveniently situated at 55 Blakely Ln, Newfoundland, NJ 07435, placing it perfectly within the desirable Skylands region of Northern New Jersey. This location in Passaic County, near the border of Morris and Sussex counties, makes it highly accessible for residents coming from the suburban sprawl of North Jersey, Central Jersey, and even the nearby New York metropolitan area.

The facility is easily reachable via major regional roads, including Route 23, which connects directly to major interstates like I-287. This excellent road network means that a peaceful, rustic escape is only a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Bergen, Essex, and Hudson counties. The relative ease of travel to this Newfoundland location is a significant factor in its popularity among New Jersey locals seeking convenient, high-quality outdoor recreation.

The setting itself is a key part of the appeal. While easily accessible, the stable is nestled amongst the woods and trails, ensuring that as soon as you arrive, you feel instantly transported to a peaceful, rural environment, ready to begin your adventure away from the urban noise. The expansive 1,100+ acres of private wooded trails ensure a genuine wilderness experience without having to travel deep into the state’s most remote areas.

Services Offered

Echo Lake Stables provides a comprehensive range of equestrian and related outdoor services designed to accommodate various skill levels and group sizes:

Guided Trail Rides: Offering 60-minute or 90-minute guided horseback adventures through the extensive, scenic wooded trails, available to riders aged 7 and older with a weight limit of 225 lbs.
Night Rides: A unique, highly popular package available on Friday and Saturday evenings, which includes a 90-minute guided trail ride followed by a Western-style BBQ, live entertainment, and an old-fashioned hayride.
Horseback Riding Lessons: Private, instructional lessons in a riding ring, suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders looking to enhance their equestrian skills with knowledgeable instructors.
Pony Rides: Specifically designed for younger children, these short rides on a pony track offer a safe and fun introduction to horses.
Hayrides: Group hayrides available for various durations, perfect for seasonal events, family fun, or large group outings.
Birthday Parties and Events: Customized packages for celebrating birthdays, including riding time and use of facilities.
Equestrian Services for Hire: Providing horses and carriages for special occasions such as weddings, Eastern Indian weddings (with decorated horses), movies, photo shoots, and commercials.
Summer Camp: Specialized summer programs are offered to immerse children in the world of horses, riding, and stable management.
Boarding and Horse Sales: Professional services for horse owners, including boarding facilities and the buying/selling of horses.

Features / Highlights

The unique features and highlights of Echo Lake Stables distinguish it as a premier recreation spot in Northern New Jersey:

Expansive, Historic Trail System: Riders explore over 1,100 acres of privately owned, wooded land, following ancient Indian trails that feature diverse terrains, mountainsides, streams, and unique centuries-old rock walls.
Signature Night Rides: One of the few stables in New Jersey to offer a full evening entertainment package, combining trail riding, a Western BBQ, and entertainment, requiring reservations due to high demand.
Year-Round Operation: The stable is open five days a week, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Wednesdays and Thursdays), offering guided rides regardless of the season, allowing guests to experience the unique beauty of a snowy forest ride or a vibrant fall foliage tour.
Family-Friendly Experience: The facility is widely regarded for its welcoming, family-oriented service, treating every rider like family, and offering activities suitable for nearly all ages and skill levels, including specialized pony rides for the youngest guests.
Experienced and Compassionate Care: The horses are meticulously cared for, receiving regular checkups, special diets, and ample attention, ensuring a safe and positive experience for both the animals and the riders.
Comprehensive Event Capabilities: Beyond standard rides, the stable offers specialized rentals and services for large-scale events, showcasing its professional capacity to handle unique requests like wedding carriage services and media work.

Contact Information

Interested New Jersey residents are encouraged to reach out directly to the stable for bookings, reservations, and specific inquiries, especially for the popular Night Rides or lessons, which often require advance booking:

Address: 55 Blakely Ln, Newfoundland, NJ 07435, USA

Phone: (973) 697-1257

Email: echolakestable@gmail.com

Please Note: It is recommended to call for the most prompt response and to confirm hours of operation and pricing, as the last trail ride typically departs at 3:00 PM.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Echo Lake Stables is an ideal and highly suitable destination for New Jersey locals because it offers a vital connection to nature and a genuine, accessible outdoor adventure that feels worlds away from the routine of suburban life, yet is remarkably close. For North Jersey residents, the stable provides a much-needed respite, a place where families can create lasting memories, and individuals can learn a new skill or simply enjoy the therapeutic experience of riding.

The convenience of its Newfoundland location, easily reachable from the state’s most populated counties, combined with the extensive and beautiful private trail system, ensures that locals do not have to drive for hours to find quality outdoor recreation. It is a local treasure that preserves a piece of New Jersey’s scenic, rural heritage, making a unique experience like horseback riding accessible and affordable. Whether seeking a thrilling night out, a peaceful hour on the trail, or a unique birthday celebration, Echo Lake Stables is a reliable, high-quality, and deeply enriching local resource for adventure and outdoor fun.