Fall Hiking Near East Hanover: 3 Scenic Parks To Explore This Season

EAST HANOVER, NJ — Fall is an ideal time to get outdoors, and East Hanover residents looking for a scenic hike have several state parks worth exploring before winter arrives.

Whether you're hoping for a peaceful walk through the woods or a more challenging trail, these three destinations offer a change of scenery.

South Mountain Reservation, spanning portions of West Orange, Millburn and Maplewood, features 2,112 acres of woodlands, hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Visitors can explore a section of the Lenape Trail or discover Hemlock Falls, a 25-foot waterfall tucked into the forest.

Farther west, Hacklebarney State Park in Long Valley offers nine hiking trails totaling five miles. The trails wind through rugged terrain overlooking the Black River, where rocky ravines, hemlock trees and small waterfalls create a scenic setting for an autumn adventure.

Another option is Allamuchy Mountain State Park in Stanhope, which offers more than 14 miles of marked hiking trails within the Allamuchy Natural Area. The park also features more than 20 miles of unmarked trails. Hikers can explore hardwood forests, marshlands and routes near Deer Park Pond.

Before heading out, visitors should check official park websites for maps, restrictions and current park conditions.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.