Many people worldwide enjoy exploring lakes, woods, streams, and fields in various areas and countries. New Jersey is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders, and Watchung Reservation is one of them. With more than 2000 acres of protected forestland, plenty of historical sites, lakes, and hiking trails, this Reservation is heaven on earth. Moreover, this spot, located in the heart of Union County, was designed by the Olmsted brothers. Watchung Reservation is the perfect spot to enjoy a fun family outdoor vacation with many unique activities available to undertake there.
It’s a spectacular natural resource that makes for a beautiful day trip all year round. During the summer, it’s the perfect destination to cool off from the heat, and in the fall, it offers the most mesmerizing views of yellow and orange foliage. However, the natural magical beauty of Watchung Reservation lies during the winter season.
Why Watchung Reservation Is Such A Magical Place To Visit During Winter
Watchung Reservation turns into the perfect place for exciting winter activities during the cold season. Snow will cover all the area’s surfaces, where people will enjoy a fantastic hike through the woods. They will feel in a winter wonderland. Moreover, they should find their way through the trails while wearing their snowshoes. Trailside Nature & Science Center offers several family winter-themed activities notably.
- Recommended: People enjoy attending the “Journey From Sap to Syrup” program at the Trailside Nature & Science Center, where they can learn how syrup is made, and they will see a collection of sap from a tree.
Another thing that people enjoy doing when visiting Watchung Reservation during the winter season is hiking its 11-mile loop, the Sierra Trail. Moreover, Trailside Nature & Science Center visitors at Watchung Reservation will be amused with nature discovery and several outdoor activities with unique topics, such as Cool Camouflage, Maple Sugaring, Early Spring Hike, and Winter Backyard Birds.
Other trails that can be hiked in Watchung Reservation include the Sensory Trail and History Trail. Moreover, all hiking trails are easy and suitable for all family members, including children.
- Recommended: People are advised to download a trail map that will help them find the most suitable hiking area for them. Moreover, they should bring their binoculars and cameras to observe the diverse wildlife in the Reservation.
Watchung Reservation Is A Marvelous Destination All Year Round, And Here Are The Best Things To Do
A visit to the Watchung Stable is a must when visiting the Reservation in New Jersey. This is where people can take budding courses and lessons for experienced equestrians. Visitors also have the chance to take a guided trail ride during weekends in the fall. What would be more unique than touring the incredible 26 miles of the Reservation on a horse? Moreover, people can benefit from boarding services and book barn tours and birthday parties.
The Trailside Nature & Science Center is beautiful to visit all year round and is home to a children’s discovery room, a 250-seat auditorium, a library, and interactive displays. Moreover, the local topography can explore hardened lava flow, basalt, and puddingstone boulder. People can also participate in seasonal festivals, storytime, and other special weekend events all year round.
While hiking is the most favorite activity in Watchung Reservation, people also enjoy biking on the hilly roads through the mountains. However, people must know that it is prohibited to practice biking on the trails.
Families with kids must head to the Loop Playground at Watchung Reservation. Here, everyone will feel entertained, including younger and older children. They will enjoy the various slides, tunnels, swings, climbing walls, and more.
- Recommended: People can enjoy a lunch al fresco at the various picnic tables at the Loop Playground in Watchung Reservation, where they can behold the beauty of the water fountain. Moreover, there are facilities available, such as public restrooms.
Watchung Reservation Is Home To This Iconic Village Which Is A Must See Attraction
In 1845, David Felt started Feltville to support his mill operation. This was a town of 175 people that was deserted in 1860. However, Feltville was reestablished in 1882 as Glenside Park, a summer resort. Moreover, in the 1920s, Feltville was considered a historical site and part of the Watchung Reservation. Today, it’s known as the Deserted Village, and people enjoy exploring it and touring two restored buildings in the town.
- Recommended: People are advised to see the cemetery, barn, church, cottages, and store in the Deserted Village at Watchung Reservation. Spooky Haunted Hayrides are held during Halloween at the Desserted Village.
Another activity worth taking part in when going on a day trip to Watchung Reservation is geocaching, where people search for hidden treasures with the help of a GPS. The activity is delightful and creates a fun family environment.