Beginner-Friendly Winter Hike: Hemlock Falls Adventure - Fun - Meet New People

Beginner-Friendly Winter Hike: Hemlock Falls Adventure

Join us for a scenic winter trek through the South Mountain Reservation! This is a great opportunity for beginners to experience a beautiful moderate trail featuring frozen sights and crisp mountain air. We will be following a loop that takes us to the stunning Hemlock Falls.
Event Details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
Meeting Time: 9:45 AM (Hike starts promptly at 10:00 AM)
Meeting Location: Locust Grove Parking Area (near the Millburn Library)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/J3gUszS4MRrXDUmFA
Distance: ~5.9 miles
Elevation Gain: ~761 feet
Estimated Time: 3–4 hours (including breaks and photos)
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly / Moderate

The Hike
We will follow a combined route via the Lenape, Rahway, and River Trails. This loop offers a mix of rocky inclines and beautiful ridgeline stretches. The highlight of the trip is reaching the waterfall, which is often a "site to behold" when frozen in January.

Winter Trail Note: The trails can be very icy this time of year. For your safety, micro-spikes or traction cleats are highly recommended to navigate slippery sections.

What to Bring (Checklist)
Traction: Micro-spikes or YakTrax (essential for ice).
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.
Clothing: Dress in layers (avoid cotton). Bring a warm down jacket and a windproof shell.
Hydration: At least 1.5–2 liters of water (an insulated bottle or thermos is great for winter).
Nutrition: Trail mix, nuts, or a light lunch to keep your energy up.
Safety: A fully charged phone with an offline map downloaded (service can be spotty).

If you have any questions please call Niraj, 201-464-6168