Get out into the forests of South Mountain Reservation and take an easy, rewarding hike to Hemlock Falls. 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.

In the South Mountain Reserve, you’ll find 2,110 acres to explore.
Mitch Cohen / Google Maps
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.
C2 Mira / Google Maps
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.
Anthony Nunez / Google Maps
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.

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The hike is popular due to its paved pathways and easy trail.
H S / Google Maps
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.
Wellington Wortee / Google Maps
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.
Eric Stone / Google Maps
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 this summer.
Gerry P / Google Maps
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!

Have you ever hiked Hemlock Falls Trail? What did you think? Would you recommend it? Let us know in the comments below!

Want to explore more waterfalls in New Jersey? Check out The 2-Hour Road Trip Around New Jersey’s ‘Waterfall Loop’ Is A Glorious Summer Adventure!

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Hemlock Falls, Route, 510 Rte 510, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA