The best walks and hikes around Newark

Newark and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with nearly 100 distinct routes available. These range from easy strolls through urban parks to more moderate trails in expansive regional reservations.

Yes, Newark has plenty of easy trails. Over 60 of the routes are classified as easy, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. Examples include the Redd Park North Loop, which is an easy 3.4-mile path through parkland, and the Iron Hill Park Bootlegger Trail Loop, an easy 2.3-mile route winding through wooded areas.

Hiking around Newark offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find historic urban parks like Branch Brook Park with its famous cherry blossoms, riverfront paths along the Passaic River offering views of the Manhattan skyline, and expansive county reservations such as South Mountain Reservation with hardwood forests, hemlock groves, and waterfalls like Hemlock Falls. Trails also feature lakes, creeks, and ponds.

Yes, for those interested in waterfalls, the nearby South Mountain Reservation, located about 8.2 miles from Newark, features Hemlock Falls. This is a notable waterfall within the reservation and can be accessed via various hiking routes in the park.

Absolutely. Many trails around Newark are designed as loops, offering a complete experience without retracing your steps. A great example is the Lenape, Possum Hollow and Double Horseshoe Trail Loop, a 3.6-mile route through varied park landscapes.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several interesting landmarks. For instance, the Pomeroy and Newark Rail Trail passes near the historic Fox catcher Farm Covered Bridge. Other points of interest in the wider area include Pomeroy Trail, White Clay Creek, and the historic Iron Hill School No. 112C.

The hiking routes in Newark are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 25 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from peaceful wooded paths to scenic riverfront walks, and the accessibility of nature within an urban setting.

Yes, several parks are excellent for families. Branch Brook Park, with its wide paths and cherry blossoms, and Weequahic Park, featuring a large lake and a rubberized loop trail, are both great options. Newark Riverfront Park also offers designated paths, playgrounds, and views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a pleasant spot for all ages.

Newark's urban parks like Branch Brook Park, Weequahic Park, and Newark Riverfront Park are generally accessible via local public transport options within the city. For larger regional reservations like South Mountain Reservation, while some bus routes might get you close, direct access to trailheads often requires a short taxi ride or personal vehicle.

The best time to hike in Newark largely depends on your preference. Spring is particularly stunning, especially in Branch Brook Park during the cherry blossom festival. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage in the regional reservations. Summer is great for waterfront walks, and even winter can be enjoyable for crisp, quiet hikes, though some trails might be icy.

While many trails are popular, exploring the diverse plant and tree species in Irvington Park offers a quieter experience. For more serious hikers seeking a challenge, the Newark Watershed area, accessible by permit, provides trails on Bearfort Mountain and Buckabear Mountain, connecting to a grander interstate trail system and offering rugged terrain.

For additional information and resources directly from the city, you can visit the official Newark website's hiking section: newarknj.gov/246/Hiking.