The best walks and hikes in Essex County

Yes, there are several options perfect for beginners or a gentle walk. The Kilburn Crags loop from Kilburn Crags is a short, accessible trail. Another great choice is the Prospect Mountain loop from Lancaster, which offers a pleasant walk with manageable elevation.

For those seeking a more strenuous workout, Essex County has a couple of difficult trails. The Le Pinacle – View of Lake Wallace loop from Baldwin Mills is a demanding route that rewards hikers with great views. Another tough option is the longer Le Pinacle – View of Lake Wallace loop from Barnston, which involves a significant climb.

Many parks in Essex County are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. South Mountain Reservation is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering extensive trails to explore with your pet. Eagle Rock Reservation is another great choice. Always keep your dog on a leash and check the specific park's regulations before you go.

Absolutely. For a flat and easy walk suitable for all ages, the West Essex Trail is an excellent choice as it follows a former railroad path. For more of a nature adventure, South Mountain Reservation offers a variety of trails and is home to the Turtle Back Zoo and other family attractions within its recreation complex.

The most well-known waterfall hike is in South Mountain Reservation. A popular trail leads to Hemlock Falls, a picturesque 25-foot waterfall that is especially impressive after recent rainfall. The trails around the falls offer a beautiful woodland experience.

For spectacular panoramic views, especially of the New York City skyline, Eagle Rock Reservation is unmatched. Its lookout points are a major draw. For a different kind of scenery, the View of Lake Willoughby loop from Westmore Town Forest provides beautiful vistas over the water and surrounding landscape.

There are over 15 designated hiking routes in Essex County on komoot, ranging from easy walks to difficult climbs. These trails explore the region's state parks, town forests, and scenic reservations, offering a wide variety of terrain and scenery.

The hiking routes in Essex County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained woodland trails, the beautiful mountain ascents, and the scenic paths around the area's large lakes.

Yes, many of the best hikes are loop trails, allowing you to enjoy a varied route without backtracking. The View from Haystack Mountain loop from Westmore is a popular circular route. For a more challenging loop, consider the Bluff Mountain (South Summit) loop from Island Pond Historic District.

Several parks and reservations are local favorites for hiking.

South Mountain Reservation is a vast, popular nature reserve with a large network of trails, including paths to Hemlock Falls.

Eagle Rock Reservation is famous for its hiking trails that lead to incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.

The West Essex Trail is a highly-regarded flat, linear path perfect for a relaxed walk or run through wooded areas.

Yes, Essex County is a great place for trail running. The varied terrain in South Mountain Reservation offers challenging runs with hills and rugged paths. For a flatter, faster run, the Weequahic Lake Trail features a 2.2-mile rubberized surface, and the West Essex Trail provides a pleasant, nearly 3-mile path.