South Mountain Reservation, covering 2,110, 2,112, 2,000, 2,100, or 2,047 acres (8.539, 8.546, 8.094, 8.498, or 8.284 km2) depending on who you ask, is a nature reserve on the Rahway River that is part of the Essex County Park System in northeastern New Jersey. It is located in central Essex County, New Jersey within portions of Maplewood, Millburn, and West Orange. It borders South Orange between the first and second ridges of the Watchung Mountains.Make South Mountain Reservation part of your personalized West Orange itinerary using our West Orange road trip planner.
Carved from wilderness at the end of the 19th century, designed by Olmsted Brothers, and developed over a few decades, the reservation has changed only slightly through the years. Preserved primarily in its wild state, woodlands abound in a variety of hardwood trees, and tall hemlocks tower above streams, creeks and ponds, and waterfalls. Higher points, such as Crater View, offer vistas of the New York and Jersey City skylines, Elizabeth, Union Township, and Staten Island.
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South Mountain Reservation reviews
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I walked around the reservoir before and after the Groundhog's Day festivities at the Turtle Back Zoo and it is such a pleasure to walk around the park and enjoy the cool air. The views are beautiful.... more
I walked around the reservoir before and after the Groundhog's Day festivities at the Turtle Back Zoo and it is such a pleasure to walk around the park and enjoy the cool air. The views are beautiful.... more »
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The reservation is quite extensive. The reservoir park in the reservation is just relaxing and beautiful perfect for outdoor activities- walking jogging. There’s a seasonal boat pier and a nice...
The reservation is quite extensive. The reservoir park in the reservation is just relaxing and beautiful perfect for outdoor activities- walking jogging. There’s a seasonal boat pier and a nice... more »
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What great walking trails, we came to scout an area for our son's 3rd birthday party. We are doing a Safari themed picnic with a nature scavenger hunt for the kids. The permit process was a breeze. We love that they have benches and grills already there. And tons of room for guest to spread out in Covid-19 times. Can't wait to have the party
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Nice, quiet, clean park. Plenty parking across the street. Free!!!! Nice pavilion with ceiling fans to keep cool while you eat & drink. Wow!! Nice, clean bathrooms. Swan paddle boats, seat about 4. Walk the path check out the birds, turtles lots & some pretty good size fish. No!!! Fishing. Dogs allowed on leash. Even have baggie stations to clean up. Nice little restaurant u want to rest, eat, maybe a cold drink.
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