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: 2–3 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.

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

Required: Traction devices (microspikes/cleats) are mandatory for this hike.

Important: Please check the weather forecast closely the night before and again before heading out, and watch for any last-minute updates or changes to the hike.

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Disclaimer:

It is assumed that all who attend are prepared for the activity and are aware of the risks associated with the activity and will hold no one in the Meetup Group responsible for personal mishaps.