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Watchung Reservation
4.7 ★★★★★ 3,679 Google reviews · Running trail in Mountainside, New Jersey · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 6 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Watchung Reservation'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.
Vast park offering cross-country skiing, fishing, outdoor ice skating, hiking, camping & more.
What runners say about Watchung Reservation
“Plenty of parking and clean bathrooms when you arrive.”
“Beautiful place, but fyi to urban explorers, the houses are not accessible, so if thats why you want to go, dont bother.”
“There are plenty of loop paths, all really well marked and easy to follow.”
“Between the abandoned houses, the old copper mine site, and the quiet views of Lake Surprise”
The trail was good for someone who likes to be surrounded by greenery and water. It wasn’t too packed and the trail was easy to walk- not much uphill or downhill except for a few areas. The route isn’t too lengthy. The lake is not spur clear, but overall nice.
"This place is such a beautiful reservation park — perfect for an evening walk or trying out some trails. There are plenty of loop paths, all really well marked and easy to follow. Whether you're just out for a chill stroll or want to get a good workout in, it’s a great spot to enjoy nature and unwind."
I hiked the Sierra Trail. It was a Nicely maintained trail. It was very well marked. A couple of the intersections aren't marked too well so pay attention. Sturdy shoes recommend because it is very rocky. There are a few benches a long the trail. Some nice photo spots a long the lake.
This was a last minute decision as we went to Washington Rock not knowing there is no hiking there it is just a cool look out. I googled parks I. The area and this came up. Great surprise was an awesome hike! Trails arent marked well, at least where we parked, but we found our way and had a great morning.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful place, but fyi to urban explorers, the houses are not accessible, so if thats why you want to go, dont bother.”
“Between the abandoned houses, the old copper mine site, and the quiet views of Lake Surprise”
“There are plenty of loop paths, all really well marked and easy to follow.”
“Sturdy shoes recommend because it is very rocky.”
“If you're doing the full loop, I recommend going counterclockwise from the nature center”
“Plenty of parking and clean bathrooms when you arrive.”
“Beautiful place, but fyi to urban explorers, the houses are not accessible, so if thats why you want to go, dont bother.”
“Plenty of parking and clean bathrooms when you arrive.”
Plan your run at Watchung Reservation
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance6 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteucnj.org
- Phone(908) 789-3670
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–8:30 PM |
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