watchung reservation

The Watchung Reservation encompasses an area that includes parts of many towns. Each area has different activities to enjoy. There is a deserted village, lakes to fish, a large children's playground, picnic areas (covered and uncovered), horseback riding, trails to hike, and even a museum with year round activities. The park can be entered from numerous locations and trails are well marked. This is a place for all ages to enjoy. To the east of the reservation is the built up urban areas and to the west of lies the farmlands, large estates and suburbia. This is the natural divide in between where one can get a few hours of peace and tranquility.

Some of the trails are a little steep so please be careful if you are carrying a heavy load or are a bit older. You will see the deer in your peripheral vision in either their grey or orange coats depending on the time of the year. Some trails have a lot of horse pies and the flies can be aggressive. I found my Garmin received poor signal at times especially in the valleys that lead to that swampy area. There is a great meandering brook that is a sanctuary for lying back and reading or taking photos. This Revolutionary War hideout also has some building ruins and a cemetery. Enjoy this respite from the stress of the city just five or ten minutes from Kenilworth!

Great place for a day hike. They have numerous trails and access points. The trails range in length from 1-11 miles. They also have a great range of nature features from water falls and streams to great panoramic views.

A great walk in the woods. A deserted village, lots of footpaths, a small lake. Open spaces, but watch out! It's not actually in the town of Watching! A peaceful afternoon walk. Loved it!

Watching reservation is a huge wildlife conservatory / park in central NJ.My family and I visited for the first time this recently ready to hike the Historic Trail which is a 6 mile loop (pink trail). Part of the trail circles lake surprise. You'll encounter joggers, people fishing, and other hikers. It was a relatively flat trail, or at least it seemed so. There were areas of mild incline, but nothing that required climbing or the aid of a pole.I'll definitely be returning with the kids and without. They had a great time exploring, shooting photographs of chipmunks, and insects, and interacting with the environment.Great stuff. I'd definitely recommend it for people who like the outdoors.