Watchung Reservation

Took a hike on a Saturday and it was pretty empty which is what I like! Brought along my 2 dogs and they loved it. We came across several other dogs so this is definitely a dog friendly place. Lots of trails, beautiful tall trees, some parts are very historic. We also kinda took a loop via driving to check out other parts (definitely plan on coming back) but it seemed pretty convenient as they had a field where people were just hanging around playing and a picnic area.

My family has been visiting Watchung Reservation for about fifteen years. There are many different areas to explore, from the abandoned village homes to the cemetery and hiking trails. We usually bring lunch and eat at one of the picnic tables near the parking lot. The hiking trails are quite challenging, with a log stretched across a stream at one point.

Great place for a hike. The lakeside/dam side trails are definitely more enjoyable though. The mountainside ones are full of rocks and mud. Nothing unpassable, but annoying in comparison. If you're doing the full loop, I recommend going counterclockwise from the nature center.