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    South Mountain Reservation

    4.3 (90 reviews)

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    Sara B.

    This was a wonderful spot for a walk on a brisk and sunny winter day! I've always heard great things about the Reservation and have been dying to visit. It's safe to say that I'll be back, especially when temps are on the up. The entire walk around the lake takes around 30 minutes. It's a very popular walk and on a sunny day there were a ton of people out and about. There are plenty of benches along the way and there is also a large sitting area with adirondack chairs. There is a really nice playground and when my daughter is a little older I think she'll really enjoy it. You can also rent a paddleboat in the summer. The Reservation is around the corner from the Zoo and a large outdoor ropes course. I like how there is so much to do in one area -- you can come for a really action packed day or just take a quick stroll to get some fresh air.

    Beautiful massive lake!
    Jared S.

    What a magnificent and magical place! I spent about an hour walking around the lake, taking in the views of the water, people watching, and observing nature. There were swans, turtles, and birds a plenty! The highlight for me was finding Hemlock Falls. It was a short hike along the river/brook and it felt like I had the entire outdoors to myself. On the way to the waterfall, I met two friendly dudes and we joked around and hiked together for a bit. Once there, I took the stairs directly to the left of the waterfall, and continued my hike up the falls. I went about 50 yards and was able to take a dip in the refreshing freshwater "ponds." If you're looking for a low-impact adventure in nature, South Mountain Reservation has it all!

    Emma G.

    ***3 1/2 stars*** South Mountain is one of those places I often end up hiking at by default because it's in a really convenient location - half an hour from home, and easily accessible for other chums by virtue of being a few minutes off 78. It's definitely gotten more crowded over the years, but not oppressively so for the most part, and the terrain is rugged and diverse enough to provide a decent workout. I came here with one of my chums for a 5.8-mile Saturday midday hike. Our itinerary took us from the Locust Grove parking lot, up the yellow Lenape Trail to Washington Rock, north to Maple Falls and Balls Bluff, before arriving at Hemlock Falls for a quick break. The return trip took us on both the Rahway and River trails (they intersect a ton), before finishing up on the Fairy Trail back to the parking lot. If you're going later in the morning, the parking lot will likely be full - we ended up parking across the street at the library. Not a huge deal, and tons of free spaces on the weekend. The initial climb up to Washington Rock is really the only significant challenge from a wind standpoint, and I like to get that sort of workout done early on before the haunches get tired. It's a solid warmup for the rest of the adventure, especially since the final mile or two is almost completely flat down by the Rahway River. There is some mild up and down the rest of the way to the waterfalls, but nothing insane. We saw a lot of hikers, old and young, fit and not-so-fit, and no one seemed particularly troubled by the terrain. The biggest downsides for me are the touristy areas by Hemlock Falls and the Fairy Trail. If you're into photo ops, it's tough to get one of the waterfalls that doesn't have a handful of children romping about in front of the camera. And I may be biased when it comes to the Fairy Trail because my first visit to it years ago was purely accidental and there was no one around (it seemed to get a ton of publicity over the past few years that really ramped up the crowd factor), so it had kind of a magical quality like you just stumbled across a fun, fantastical secret. It doesn't have that anymore, unless you're about 4 years old, and they've actually had to cordon off certain areas of it because the nearby foliage is getting trampled. It's a shame, and I honestly don't know how you rectify it at this point. By and large, the trail markings were excellent. Not only were intersections often noted, but they included a "you are here" map for perspective. Love that touch. A few of the trails weren't marked, and we did get slightly off track during an attempt to locate the dog park, but I at least partially blame us for getting distracted from our official route. Also, it's almost impossible to get authentically lost in an Essex County park - at some point, you're going to come in contact with a highway. The bathroom situation is one of the better ones. The parking lot has not one, but THREE port-a-potties, though only one of them had toilet paper at the time. (I always recommend carrying a roll in your backpack because...you never know). South Mountain is also one of the more civilized parks in the area in the sense that it's super kid friendly in parts with some touristy sections, so if you really need to find bathroom accommodations at some point on your journey, it's not too difficult. The canine situation was excellent. We had double-digit pooch sightings, including a German Shepard puppy named Cora who was still mastering the art of licking without nibbling, as well as a noble creature named Benny (see attached). This park is a little too civilized for my taste, especially because of the crowds and traffic noises in several stretches, but it has enough unique features to make this one a positive recommendation overall.

    Brian R.

    2 miles around the lake for you to walk or jog. Because of covid, they want everybody to go in the same direction! The zoo has a train that goes by part of the lake. On the other side, you can rent a paddleboat. Bikes and skateboards aren't permitted

    Kristina B.

    Upon staying at a friend's in West Orange, I and my dog bffs hiked up MaryApple Hill to the South Mountain Reservation a couple times during my visit. There are two trails, one is very short - about a mile - and easy, probably for school groups and camps. The longer trail begins on the paved road and snakes through the preserved land, -we found a teepee!- and even past private residences at the top of the hill. Given our visits were around lunch time, I did expect more people but both times it was fairly empty, which made for a peaceful walk just me and my four-legged buddies. Was a little disappointed at the scattered poop filled baggies that I found along the trails, which no one bothered to dispose of. What's the point in picking up after your dog if you're not going to toss it out responsibly? As I understand it, the reservation was founded for education and preservation, so it was sad to see that visitors before and after me chose to toss their trash on the ground rather than Homs it until they came upon the many trash cans that grace the picnic area and parking lot. If you're like me and choose to hike up the hill from home, be aware that the sidewalk paths disappear just as you get to the overpass above Northfield Ave, so you have to walk on the debris scattered curb to get to MaryApple Hill's entrance. Can be pretty scary walking that close to the cars, which is why I didn't bother trying to get to the area with the row boats and the turtle zoo. Overall though, not a bad hiking experience! BUT PLEASE --TOSS YOUR TRASH!!

    Hank C.

    The main patches by the zoo are nicely paved and well lit by the lake. Other areas for the kids like the faery house tail and the major lanes are well marked or wide and well traveled. Minor trails aren't as well marked so avoid those in winter. And the parking gets full fast. You'll want to get there early and make sure you get i a good walk. There are picnic areas too, and a playground by the lake. Boy scouts have a camp area too. There are a couple trails not well marked that go by the water falls close to the road. A sculpture park and butterfly park, too.

    Amy N.

    Fall is my favorite season. I just love the warm foliage colors! October should be the month designated for hikes and adventures. Did not intend to explore South Mountain, however our GPS somehow ended up here. And I must say, sometimes its okay to do the unexpected. Great place for a family day. Lot's to do around here -- enjoy a long stroll or run, pedal a swan on the lake, hit up the tree top adventure, feed the animals at Turtleneck Zoo, just to name a few.

    Hemlock Falls - not a bad hike. My kids ages 4 and 6 could do it.
    Florence C.

    Nature never goes outta style and this spot offers so much of it. Bordering Maplewood, Millburn and West Orange, this place has always been a family favorite for hiking, paddle boating, ice skating, and picnicking. With several shady hiking trails that are easy to moderate, my whole family including a 4- and 6-year-old can definitely handle it. (I suggest bringing plenty of water, hand sanitizer, and some snacks.) You can access 2 waterfalls by different trails. My favorite's Hemlock Falls which gets busy on the weekends. The Fairy Trail https://www.yelp.com/biz/south-mountain-fairy-trail-millburn?osq=fairy+trail with fairy houses along the way is quite easy and perfect for the young at heart (my parents were able to do it). It's all good in the woods! NOTES/TIPS: **A couple of good make-out spots. **Dog Park **Includes Turtleback Zoo, Regatta Playground- for younger kids https://www.yelp.com/biz/essex-county-regatta-playground-west-orange?osq=fairy+trail, Paddleboat rentals, and Codey Arena - for ice skating **Directions for some trails: https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/new-jersey/south-mountain-reservation

    Esmeralda C.

    Decided to visit the Wildflower sculpture park this time of year and quickly realized how bare the trees were, yet still beautiful in its naked state. There are tons of trails for small hikes, yet easy to get lost of you're unfamiliar with the area. The sculptures were pretty cool & creative. My favorite sculpture was the sunflower made of recycled plastic water bottles, ingenious if you ask me. The first thing you see when you arrive at the park is the big dog park divided fir small dogs & bigger ones. It appears it's visited a lot, the day was filled with dogs playing with their fellow fur friends. I'd like to come back & stroll more in depth during the spring or summer months & see all the flowers in bloom.

    Key legend
    Imani L.

    This was a great hike for a sunny afternoon. I was a little skeptical because it's the weekend, with Covid-19 but fortunately the crowds weren't as bad as I expected. Sooo this trail can be a little confusing especially as a newcomer because there are a bunch of entry/exit points. I decided to use the Fairy Trail as my main guide and go from there. This was the most crowded part of the hike but as we got dropped into it the number of people went to a super comfortable limit. There's a map a little off to the side of it that kind of helps to explain but my advice is to just start at the fairy trail, stay on the white(Rahway) trail and make your way back out. I know the main goal of this trail specifically is to see the waterfall but I honestly never got to that point LOL. I didn't feel bad though because there were SEVERAL families that were equally confused/gave up. I wish there were more signs or points in the midst of the trail points that guide hikers to the main attraction but unfortunately there weren't any. The positive side of it is that there are tons of beautiful picture moments, from mini waterfalls, to a smoggy lake, to river/rocky paths. All in all, I'll rate it a 3.5 because it wasn't crowded and was nice and spacious. The park should really improve on the paint markings and information throughout because there were so many disappointed families that we encountered on our walk.

    Nick M.

    A very nice and big place to hike! I visited the waterfalls on this hike and it was really pretty and fun! The only downside is that the trails get very confusing near the waterfalls and it's easy to get lost so make sure you remember where you walked from!

    Gaezebo at Mayapple section of Reservation
    Marcus S.

    Many memories here. Coming up here from going to day camp as a youngin', coming up here with friends to get lost in the woods, going on dates and now just going for walks/hikes down the multitude of paths. There are several parts of the Reservation that have entrances and span through South Orange, West Orange, Millburn, and Short Hills. When I think of the Reservation I of course think of South Orange's entrance which has a few overlooks, path entrances and the dog park within. Some parts of the Reservation have grills, gazebos, bridges and other little sites to pique your curiosity. I admit in all my years of living in the area I haven't seen all paths and all the little nooks. Rumors would swirl as kids about urban legends and other tall tales of what lie deep in the reservation such as cult dens, deadly snakes, dark caves, designated spots where scandalous things could go down without being disturbed and more. I can't confirm any of it, but I think this adds to the mystery and enjoyment of the Reservation and always has. I wonder if these stories still populate the schools today? In any case, the Reservation is still a great place to come and kill a few hours. No strenuous hikes here that I've seen, but a few light paths that invite pets, kids, and or a few of your friends and let you be in nature.

    Lenape trail
    Rose C.

    Very nice reservation. Located in west orange, millburn and south orange/maplewood, Nj. It featured several different trails with maps at every trail poin which was helpful. I entered from obscure area in west orange because of my gps. But it is does have a trail leads to turtle back zoo. You can also walk to mcloone's boathouse, McDonald's, dunkin donuts and other places to eat in the area when you're near turtle back zoo. I will say make sure you wear really comfortable and durable shoes because there were some trails that were really rocky. Overall it was a nice experience

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - South Mountain Reservation

    Is there a picnic area here?

    There's a restaurant close to the lake, you can find a picnic area but not close to the lake.

    Can I bring my own boat to use in the reservoir?

    The only boating that I know is allowed is the swan peddle boats. I don't believe any boats are allowed in any of the reservoir areas of South Mountain Reservation.

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    Review Highlights - South Mountain Reservation

    The walkway along the water goes back to the Safari Mini Golf course and ultimately the Turtle Back Zoo.

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    Trailside Nature and Science Center - Giant xylophone on the Sensory Trail

    Trailside Nature and Science Center

    4.8(29 reviews)
    6.9 mi

    TNSC is a wonderful little museum and environmental education center located in the Watchung…read moreReservation, with many nature and outdoor programs and workshops for children & families as well as adults. It's a great place to take kids, and admission is free! The museum has exhibits, hands-on interactive displays, a cool night theater show, and a children's discovery/play room. You could also observe many beautiful and exotic bird species fly to and fro around the bird feeders out back through a large window. Upstairs are classrooms and a small library area. There are many hiking trails, including the Sensory Trail, a child-friendly 0.3 mile loop with special sensory exploratory features such as talking kiosks, musical play, and garden structures. There is also a playground and picnic areas in the vicinity. In addition, if you care to explore other parts of this 2,000+ acre reservation, drive or hike to nearby Watchung Stable to see the horses and riders; and for sure visit the Deserted Village of Feltville, a can't-miss area of Watchung with historic buildings dating back to the 18th century, and is a cool stroll.

    Free place to visit alert. I came here with cousins and when you don't want to pay $$ for…read moreadmission for a lot of people, this place is amazing, will probably take you a half day. They have a park nearby too which is walking distance. The center itself is cool, has a kids toy play area, a reading section and another section to learn of different animals - fake and real. Lots of parking in the area and when you're done, there is food nearby, about 15 minutes away. Definitely recommend if you are on a budget because family trips get expensive.

    Photos
    Trailside Nature and Science Center - A space on the first floor

    A space on the first floor

    Trailside Nature and Science Center - Peeking at turtles

    Peeking at turtles

    Trailside Nature and Science Center - Admiring an artwork: "A Tree in the Forest" by Dario Scholis

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    Admiring an artwork: "A Tree in the Forest" by Dario Scholis

    Lake Hopatcong Adventure - "The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever."

    Lake Hopatcong Adventure

    4.5(6 reviews)
    23.3 mi

    Did you know that Lake Hopatcong is NJ's largest freshwater lake?…read more And did you also know that there's a great little place on the lake that lets you rent all sorts of strange inventions like a 'pedalboard' and a 'hydrobike' (along with the classics like kayaks and paddleboards) - so you can cruise along the lake, get a bit of exercise, fill those lungs with fresh air and more importantly... work up an appetite (so you can hit The Windlass right after)? I tell you it's true. All true. There were six of us (celebrating a birthday) - 5 on hydrobikes, 1 on a pedalboard. The lake is drop dead gorgeous and we went when it was still early and a bit overcast so it wasn't too crowded with boats and jet-skis and the like. (Waves/wakes from other boats can really dampen your own fun... so that stuff matters a bit.) But I gotta be honest: it was a lot of work. Unlike a kayak where you might get a nice 'bite' with your oar and can coast a bit... the bike is akin to being pneumatic (you stop pedaling and you almost immediately come to a halt as well). And those seats? They are not comfortable at all. Sore dupas all around (the following day as well, actually). But we all had a great time. The crew (Patty and Joe, I believe) were really cool, total professionals, and we always felt like we were safe as well having a great time exploring some of the lake and adjoining islands and whatnot. (We would definitely return in the future but would lean towards a kayak and not do the bikes again.) Wear sunblock, bring water, not sure if it was just me but my right foot was pretty soaked by the end whereas my left was dry (so you'd be better off wearing an old ratty pair of sneakers, regardless). Post-pedal was The Windlass (excellent) as well as some mini-golf (also excellent). Lots to do in this lovely part of Jersey. (But it'll cost ya!)

    A cousin of mine tried the hydrobikes and lived it, so I thought I would give it a try. I asked a…read morefriend to come with me and he said it looked like a pain in the ass. I made a reservation online. Patty was so friendly and made it a great time! She let me use some sun block and fill up my reusable cup at their water fountain. She told me that I would probably like the standup paddle board better because it had better maneuverability. I took her advice. It was a lot of excise and fun as we rode around and she told me about the history and pointed out different areas around the lake. We even picked up some trash from inside the lake and it made me happy to know that there are good people out there who are also passionate about the environment. It was hot and I "accidentally" fell in and got to enjoy the water a little bit. Patty also gave me restaurant and hiking recommendations around the area and even took a picture of me. You may be able to call and make a same day appointment, but online will only allow the following day. I don't think it's with bringing or risking losing your camera or phone out on the lake, there isn't anything really photo worthy.

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    Lake Hopatcong Adventure
    Lake Hopatcong Adventure
    Lake Hopatcong Adventure

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    South Mountain Reservation - hiking - Updated May 2026

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