Locals call this waterfall the great Great Falls. This 78 foot waterfall, one of the highest in the northeast, has a fascinating history. Instead of reciting all that here we have included references to interesting web sites describing the waterfalls, the river and the history. An important point for folks with past familiarity with the Passaic River; it has been cleaned up and is probably cleaner now than in Colonial times when the river powered Paterson's heavy industry.

Getting there can be tricky. I-80 cut off many streets so now you have to take exit 57 and head toward downtown Paterson. The exits lands you on Oliver Street. Immediately turn left on Mill Street and proceed to McBride Avenue Ext (2nd street on your left). Turn left and follow it one long block to where it become McBride Avenue (not Extension) which bears slightly to the right and over the bridge which crosses the Passaic River and Great Falls.

An intense cleanup effort has rejuvenated the parks along the river. The small park may become a National Park (if President Obama signs the bill). The entire site is much improved from its state just a few years ago. 

Some interesting web sites relating to the river and waterfalls:

**Note: Geocities website which brings up those annoying mini-window ads