The best walks and hikes around Morris Plains
4.3
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317
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hikes
Hiking around Morris Plains, New Jersey, offers a diverse environment with rolling, wooded hills and extensive trail systems. The region features numerous routes alongside lakes, ponds, and brooks, providing varied scenic experiences. Many trails traverse forested parklands, contributing to a rich outdoor setting. The terrain includes a mix of easy to moderate challenges, catering to different ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Morris Plains
- The most popular hiking route is Lewis Morris County Park loop via Yellow Trail, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This route follows a path through the forested landscape of a large county park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Speedwell Lake via Patriots' Path, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.3 km) path. This hike is part of the extensive Patriots' Path network and features lakeside scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Kitchell Pond loop from Loantaka Brook Reservation, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through Loantaka Brook Reservation, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Morris Plains is defined by wooded parklands, lakeside paths, and extensive trail systems. The network of routes offers options suitable for different ability levels.
- The routes in Morris Plains are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.25 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Morris Plains's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
5
hikers
5.18km
01:24
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.82km
01:24
150m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
3.17km
00:58
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.12km
00:48
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
9.26km
02:20
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lots of pedestrians, often with dogs. A gentle bell ding will move them over.
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Parking lot overflow during nice weather. There are other parking areas along Patriots Path about a mile west.
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Mountain Way Park is a beautiful green nature preserve. There are several great trails that take you through the park.
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Despite the physical absence of the Rockaway Valley Railroad, its legacy lives on in the Washington Valley Trail and the memories it evokes. While the railroad ties and structures may have vanished, the spirit of the journey remains. The quiet beauty of the trail, reclaimed by nature, offers a unique opportunity for reflection and appreciation.
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The Patriots' Path is a 35-mile trail that runs through Morris County. It is a mix of pavement, gravel and crushed stone. This section is mostly paved and runs through beautiful forest.
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Speedwell Lake played a significant role in the American Revolution. Today, remnants of the ironworks of the 18th century can still be seen along the lake's shores, serving as a tangible reminder of the area's industrial past.
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Speedwell Lake played a significant role in the American Revolution. Today, remnants of the ironworks of the 18th century can still be seen along the lake's shores, serving as a tangible reminder of the area's industrial past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Morris Plains?
Yes, there are over 35 hiking routes to explore in the Morris Plains area. The trails range from short, easy walks in local parks to more extensive hikes within larger county reservations, offering plenty of variety for all skill levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Morris Plains are well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the region's well-maintained paths, beautiful forested scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere around the many lakes and ponds.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails near Morris Plains?
Many parks in Morris County are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Loantaka Brook Reservation is a popular choice for dog walkers, offering wide, paved paths. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.
Can I find any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The area has many easy trails perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Mountain Way Park loop via Beacon Hill Trail, which is a short, manageable walk through a lovely wooded park.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls in the region?
While direct trails in Morris Plains don't feature major waterfalls, a short drive will take you to some beautiful spots. Hemlock Falls in the nearby South Mountain Reservation is a highly-rated local favorite, accessible via a pleasant woodland hike.
What is the Patriots' Path and can I hike it near Morris Plains?
The Patriots' Path is an extensive network of trails spanning Morris County. You can access sections of it from various points near Morris Plains. For example, the trail to Speedwell Lake via Patriots' Path offers a scenic hike along a portion of this historic trail system.
Where can I find hikes with good views?
For panoramic views, including vistas of the New York City skyline on a clear day, head to Tourne County Park. The trails there lead to some of the highest points in the area. Another option is Pyramid Mountain, which offers rewarding overlooks after a moderate climb.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the best hikes in the area are loops, allowing you to enjoy a varied route without backtracking. The Lewis Morris County Park loop via Yellow Trail is a fantastic example, taking you through a beautiful forest on a well-marked circuit.
What are some popular places for hiking near Morris Plains?
Locals and visitors enjoy several key hiking destinations.
Loantaka Brook Reservation is a popular park with miles of trails. Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area is famous for its unique geological formations like Tripod Rock. Lewis Morris County Park is another favorite, offering extensive trails and amenities.
What is the terrain like on the hiking trails?
The terrain is generally characterized by rolling, wooded hills and gentle inclines. Most trails are well-maintained dirt or gravel paths. You'll find many routes that follow the shores of lakes, ponds, and brooks, offering mostly flat and scenic walking.
Are there any trails suitable for trail running?
Many of the trails in the area are great for running. Loantaka Brook Reservation features nearly 10 miles of wide, relatively flat paths ideal for a long run. For more of a challenge with hills, the trails in Lewis Morris County Park are an excellent choice.
Where can I find information on parking for the trails?
Most of the major parks and reservations, such as Lewis Morris County Park and Loantaka Brook Reservation, have designated parking areas near the trailheads. The Lewis Morris Park Trail Parking Lot is a well-known access point for both the park's trails and the Patriots' Path.
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