Hiking Mike,

You're in Northern NJ. You are quite close to where the AT crosses (go either way as far as you like) and Harriman Park which has much good hiking and backpacking (and shelters you can use).

There are also several other parks/preserves in that general area that have really good hiking. Plus, there are several hiking clubs based in NYC (Google, or contact NY-NJ Trail Conference), and you are fairly close to a very large and helpful outdoor store Campmor in Paramus. I remember that they had young,
well-informed staff, and a fairly large book section.

best, jcp