The Morris Canal also provided Clifton residents with many recreational opportunities.  The waterway was a popular place to paddle a canoe, take a refreshing plunge on a warm summer day, catch a fish or two, or join a skating party during the winter months.  After the turn of the century, the Morris Canal's commercial value was nearing it's end.  Te waterway could never compete against the railroads, which transported good much faster and were operational year round.  In 1924, Navigation on the canal came to an end and the canal was drained.  

Clifton’s Morris Canal Park and Nature Preserve was dedicated on May 17, 1987.  It has been constructed primarily by volunteer labor and financed through private donations.  

We invite you to enjoy Cliftons living link with its’ rich canal heritage.  Stroll along the towpath.  Picnic under the canopy of shade trees near the spring fed pond.  Bring along your binoculars and enoy the birds and other wildlife in their natural surroundings.  

Perhaps you would like to assist us?  Our goal is to both preserve and improve the park and inform the visitors of the Morris Canals rich past.  Are you a history buff?  Do you enjoy gardening? Construction work, or are you an amateur naturalist?  Would you be able to make a donation to assist us?

If so, please contact:
Jack Kuepfer
Park Restoration Director
(973) 473-5167