Discover the Natural Beauty of South Mountain Reservation
Explore South Mountain Reservation - a picturesque park in New Jersey offering scenic trails, picnic areas, and a perfect escape into nature.
South Mountain Reservation is a stunning park in West Orange, NJ, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of recreation and natural beauty. With scenic trails, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife, it offers visitors a peaceful escape just minutes from the city. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the park's rich history, making it a must-visit destination for tourists of all ages.
A brief summary to South Mountain Reservation
- Cherry Ln, West Orange, New Jersey, 07052, US
- +1973-268-3500
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to enjoy the wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic picnic spots throughout the park.
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive trail network.
- Check the weather before your visit to fully enjoy the outdoor activities.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
From Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, head southeast on Long Hill Road towards the intersection with Route 24. Turn right onto Route 24 and continue for about 2 miles. Merge onto I-287 N via the ramp to Morristown. Stay on I-287 N for approximately 6 miles. Take exit 35B for Route 10 E toward East Hanover. Continue on Route 10 E for about 5 miles. Use the right lane to merge onto I-280 E toward Newark. After about 7 miles, take exit 10B for Northfield Ave toward West Orange. Continue on Northfield Ave for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Cherry Ln. South Mountain Reservation will be on your right.
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Public Transportation
From Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the nearest train station, which is the Morris Plains Station. From there, take a NJ Transit train on the Morristown Line to Newark Penn Station. At Newark Penn Station, transfer to the NJ Transit train on the North Jersey Coast Line towards Bay Head and get off at the South Orange Station. From South Orange Station, you can catch a local bus or use a rideshare service to reach South Mountain Reservation located on Cherry Ln. The bus fare is approximately $1.50, and train tickets will vary in cost based on your starting point but typically range from $5 to $15.
Discover more about South Mountain Reservation
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Municipal Plaza
9.0 km
Explore Municipal Plaza in Bloomfield, NJ, where history meets community spirit in a beautifully designed civic hub.
Great Swamp
12.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Great Swamp, a stunning wetland in New Jersey, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness Area
14.6 km
Discover the diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
FlyNYON Helicopter Tours
15.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New York City with FlyNYON Helicopter Tours, offering unforgettable aerial experiences and stunning views.
Site of Historic Roosevelt Stadium - 1937-1985
16.5 km
Explore the historic Roosevelt Stadium in Jersey City, a vibrant landmark echoing the past of sports and entertainment in the heart of New Jersey.
The Blejer's lighthouse
16.9 km
Discover The Blejer's Lighthouse in Passaic, NJ: A historical landmark offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage.
Great Swamp Wildlife Observation Center
17.0 km
Explore the Great Swamp Wildlife Observation Center, a stunning refuge in New Jersey ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and connecting with nature.
Great Swamp Lookout (Harding Township)
17.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Great Swamp Lookout in Harding Township, a serene destination offering stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Witt Penn Bridge
17.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and architectural beauty at the Witt Penn Bridge in Jersey City, a perfect spot for memorable photos and leisurely strolls.
Jersey City Free Public Library: Earl A. Morgan Branch
17.6 km
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Lincoln Park
17.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Lincoln Park in Jersey City, a spacious urban oasis perfect for relaxation, recreation, and scenic views.
Everything Jersey City
17.8 km
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Blakeslee Monument
18.2 km
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Pedestrian Underground Walkway
18.2 km
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Blue Bird Parking Lot - Great Swamp
18.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hemlock Falls
0.3 km
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Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
1.7 km
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Kahkow USA
4.6 km
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Thomas Edison National Historical Park
5.8 km
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Reeves-Reed Arboretum
5.9 km
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Eagle Rock Reservation
7.9 km
Explore Eagle Rock Reservation, a stunning memorial park in West Orange, NJ, offering breathtaking views of NYC and serene outdoor experiences.
Imagine That!!!
8.3 km
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Branch Brook Park
9.2 km
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Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
9.4 km
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Weequahic Park
9.5 km
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Liberty Hall Museum
9.8 km
Explore Liberty Hall Museum in New Jersey, a heritage museum that showcases American history through fascinating artifacts and beautiful gardens.
Newark Symphony Hall
10.0 km
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The Newark Museum of Art
10.0 km
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Newark Public Library
10.1 km
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The Jewish Museum of New Jersey
10.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Cuban Pete's
9.0 km
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Garlic Rose Bistro
10.9 km
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Laico's
17.3 km
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Lorenzo’s Restaurant, Bar & Cabaret
18.1 km
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15 Fox Place
18.4 km
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Krewe of McGinley Square
18.7 km
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Al-Basha Quick Serve
19.0 km
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Toros
19.0 km
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NJ Restaurant
19.1 km
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Nouri’s Restaurant
19.1 km
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Istanbul Grill House Turkish Restaurant
19.1 km
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Tadim Restaurant
19.2 km
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Lezzet Restaurant
19.2 km
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DULCE PATRIA
19.2 km
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La Carbonera
19.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
No. 165
2.7 km
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MEUS
2.7 km
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The Mall at Short Hills
6.4 km
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Inspirations Stores
6.5 km
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Sustainable Haus Mercantile
6.7 km
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The Collective
6.8 km
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MyUnique Thrift
6.9 km
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Sierra
9.9 km
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Nouvelle Boutique Upper Montclair NJ
12.0 km
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Pretty Handy Gift Shop and Makerspace
12.6 km
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Tech Toys
13.3 km
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INspirations
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The Promenade Shops At Clifton
14.8 km
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Willowbrook
15.3 km
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Just Jersey
16.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Prospect Tavern
10.5 km
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54 Main Bar & Grille
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Bottle Hill Tavern
10.6 km
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Encore Speakeasy & Wine Bar
10.7 km
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Recess
12.9 km
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Trap Rock Restaurant & Brewery
14.2 km
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Great Notch Inn
15.6 km
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Whiskey and virtue
15.6 km
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Miller's Ale House
15.8 km
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Vintage Tavern
16.1 km
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End of Elm
16.2 km
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Tavern off the Green
16.4 km
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Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen
16.4 km
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Grasshopper off the Green
16.6 km
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The Laundromat
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Laundromat, Morristown's unique bar with live music and eclectic decor, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
