Hemlock Falls Is A 6 Mile Hike In New Jersey That Leads You To A Pristine Waterfall

11/30/2021

In the South Mountain Reserve, you’ll find 2,110 acres to explore

This nature reserve is filled with beautiful scenery and waterfalls to boot. Enjoy your day under the cool, lush canopy of some of New Jersey’s prettiest countryside.
Within this nature reserve lies quite a few hiking trails. Among them is the Hemlock Falls Trail.

This trail is actually only 6 miles long, and is a loop around Hemlock Falls itself.

There are many different trail systems that will bring you to Hemlock Falls Trail, and the easiest is the Lenape Trail, more commonly referred to as the “Yellow” Trail, so named because the markers along the trail are yellow.

There are wonderful features on the trail, like stone bridges and staircases, and wide, meandering path.

Most of the trail is well marked and easy to follow. If you do find yourself turned around, keep an eye out for the yellow markers, or ask another hiker that you pass.

The hike is popular due to its paved pathways and easy trail.

There’s only 784 feet of elevation total, so it won’t be a hard climb to see the waterfall. The tree canopy also provides a refreshing escape to the summer heat.

The views are stunning all along the trail.

Because of its easy accessibility, the trail can be busy during the day. If you’d like to hike it during a quieter time head out in the morning or late afternoon. Or even hike it on a drizzly day; you may just be the only ones out there!

For the most impressive waterfall views make sure to head over after a good rainfall.

Otherwise, the falls can seem a little underwhelming. If you choose to hike down to the waterfall and explore, that adds a bit more distance on the entire trail, and it will be closer to a 7.5 mile hike.

This is one hike you don’t want to miss in the summer.
Grab your loved ones and spend a day exploring this beautiful spot in New Jersey. You will love every minute of these stunning waterfall views!

Address: Hemlock Falls, Route, 510 Rte 510, South Orange, NJ 07079, US

Article by Megan McDonald of "Only in your state"