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Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 259 Google reviews · Running trail in Princeton, New Jersey · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Nature preserve featuring several hiking trails in a picturesque setting with woodlands & a lake.
What runners say about Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
“A plus is there’s also a clean restroom next to the parking lot before you start your walk/run!”
“Today I explored a beautiful trail in this preserve and absolutely loved it.”
“My dog loves it, so you should, too.”
I beautiful nature reserve, very much recommend for small trails and hikes. There are also bike lanes if you want to ride into the trails. The water reserve has small turtles present, the families visit to show them to their kids, we saw many small children visiting the turtles.
Such a great hike. Recommend if you are a strong walker. Not for weak ankles. You definatley want to watch where and how you step become some of the placements of rocks will trip you up if your not paying attention. Amazing views and picture opportunities on this walk.
There are some places that you'll remember for many years. This ain't one of them. This is, however, an excellent place to clear your mind and enjoy a refined version of nature. It is a large, clean park with many pathways.
Nice hiking trail, though very muddy due to recent rainfall. Trail is marked , but prefer to have download an offline map or follow AllTrails if you are new to hiking.
Trail conditions & character
“The trails at Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes offer trails that match both difficult and relaxed levels while providing spectacular views of the lake.”
“Be careful in some parts where there are roots growing out that are covered with fallen leaves .”
“I have taken my dogs hiking on these trails the past couple years.”
“Google navigation will take you to a parking lot, and yes, you can bring your four-legged friend with you.”
“I'd recommend to stick to the main (paved) road for the first half mile or so on or after a rainy day.”
“A plus is there’s also a clean restroom next to the parking lot before you start your walk/run!”
Plan your run at Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteprincetonnj.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6:30 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6:30 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
| Saturday | 6:30 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8:30 pm |
Running trails near Princeton
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Community Park North
4.6 ★★★★★ 216 reviews
71-acre park with wooded walking trails, an amphitheater & a pond for fishing & skating.
Greenway Meadows Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 108 reviews
Park for soccer games, bird-watching and running, along with a playground and hills for sledding.
Woodfield Reservation
4.5 ★★★★★ 59 reviews
Nearly 100 acres of mature forest featuring trails & a variety of birds & other wildlife.
Turning Basin Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 268 reviews
Waterside park offering canoeing and kayaking trails, plus a picnic area and a dock.