South Mountain Reservation
2,000-acre natural reserve with hiking trails for all levels, scenic overlooks, picnic areas, barbecue sites, and the Orange Reservoir with a 1.75-mile paved walking path and paddle boats. Gorgeous fall foliage, diverse wildlife, and the Regatta Children's Playground.
South Mountain Reservation Maplewood / West Orange Reviews
Parents love South Mountain Reservation, with a 4.7-star rating from 7,833 reviews on Google. Highly rated for quality, safety, and great experiences for kids.
What Parents Are Saying
This beautiful nature preserve offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The miles of scenic trails are well-marked and range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making it enjoyable for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. The peaceful waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning overlooks create a tranquil atmosphere that feels far away from the city. It’s the kind of place you can return to again and again, each time discovering new trails and experiences. Whether you’re out for exercise, photography, or just a peaceful day outdoors, South Mountain Reservation is an absolute must-visit.
Love the beautiful and peaceful sceneries. Perfect location for a one-day trip! Yellow trail has significant slopes and is very rocky, a bit more demanding to hike than expected; blue trail on the other hand is perfect for me! Will definitely come back for another visit in the future!
Really great spot. Alot of trails to follow, so much green that enchants to the beauty of this place. Heads up bugs will be a meanace and will continuously bothersome, wish the flow of water was much stronger the falls would have been amazing if it was.
Details
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
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Frequently Asked Questions About South Mountain Reservation
Is South Mountain Reservation good for kids?
Yes! South Mountain Reservation has easy hiking trails, Turtle Back Zoo, playgrounds, the Fairy Trail, picnic areas, and Hemlock Falls waterfall - all great for families with kids.
Can you swim at South Mountain Reservation?
No swimming is permitted in the reservation. The ponds and streams are for wildlife observation only.
Are bikes allowed on South Mountain trails?
Yes, many trails permit mountain bikes. The Lenape Trail and some service roads are bike-friendly. Check trail maps for bike-permitted routes.
Where is the Fairy Trail at South Mountain Reservation?
The Fairy Trail is near the Campbell's Pond area. Look for tiny fairy doors along the trail. It's a 0.5-mile easy loop perfect for young children.
Does South Mountain Reservation have bathrooms?
Yes, restrooms are available at Turtle Back Zoo, the Washington Rock picnic area, and near Locust Grove. Portable toilets are at some trailheads.
Is South Mountain Reservation stroller-friendly?
Some paved areas and wide trails near picnic areas work for strollers. Most hiking trails are uneven and not ideal for strollers. Bring a baby carrier for trails.
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Turtle Back Zoo
New Jersey's #1 ranked zoo with over 1,400 animals on 20 acres in South Mountain Reservation. Features train rides, carousel, prehistoric playground, pony rides, giraffe feeding, butterfly tent, and a touch tank with stingrays. Offers homeschool programs, early childhood classes, behind-the-scenes tours, Family Nature Club, and summer camps for all ages.
South Mountain Nature School
Forest school in South Mountain Reservation following the Cedarsong Way of nature immersion. Children learn through sustained time outdoors — exploring, hiking, and connecting with the natural world. Enrichment classes promote social, emotional development and foster independence. Summer camp ages 4–7.
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum
16-acre nature sanctuary with woodland trails, a three-story Tree House with bird's-eye forest views, butterfly garden, and sensory garden. After-school nature education classes, summer camps, and seasonal family events focused on environmental stewardship. Founded 1923.