3 Best Hiking Trails in Newark, NJ

“ 2026 Highlights: Weequahic Park is a historic 311-acre park in Newark, New Jersey, offering a variety of outdoor recreation and natural spaces for visitors to enjoy. The park surrounds a large lake and provides opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, and spending time outdoors. Visitors can explore scenic areas, enjoy the waterfront setting, and take advantage of recreational facilities throughout the park. The park is also an important community destination, offering residents and visitors a place to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities within an urban setting.”

“ South Mountain Reservation occupies approximately 2,110 acres and is part of the Essex County Park System Nature Reserve. This reserve is located 8.2 miles from Newark. The total length of the main trail is 3.8 miles, with an elevation gain of 291 feet. This is an out-and-back trail and typically takes 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete. The trail features 23 beautiful hiking routes, biking trails, and woodland paths. Visitors can enjoy the abundance of hardwood trees and the sight of tall hemlocks near lakes, creeks, and ponds. South Mountain Reservation's popular hikes also include the Fairy Trail and various waterfalls. The park offers various facilities, such as parking spots, allowing you to start your hike from multiple points. Visitors can also observe diverse wildlife throughout the park. Dogs are permitted in designated leash areas.”

“ Watchung Reservation offers various recreational opportunities like cross-country skiing, fishing, outdoor ice skating, hiking, and camping. The reservation includes a museum with three floors of exhibits. This trail is located 12 miles from Newark. There is a 6-mile trail that explores and recognizes historical sites within the 2,000-acre preserve in Union County's northernmost section. The trail also features nature, historical, and cultural exhibits. The nature center has miles of walking trails at one end of the Watchung Reservation. Visitors can bring their kids to enjoy hiking, a science center, fishing, and a playground. This is a perfect place to bring your family and enjoy a day in nature.”