February Hikes with SMC

FEBRUARY 2025 HIKES

Thank you for being a member of the SMC Hiking Program! We're excited to have you with us.

We now use Meetup to schedule and register all hikes, with the exception of the February 22nd co-sponsored hike led by Dr. Kirk of RRWA, which accepts registrations through Eventbrite (link provided below).

This month, the South Mountain Conservancy will be offering hikes specifically geared towards the
50+ community. Check them out below and give yourself the gift of wellness while connecting with like-minded hikers!

Please note that by registering for a hike via Meetup, you are agreeing to the 2025 SMC Liability and Covid Waiver. We also ask that you provide an emergency contact name and number when prompted during registration.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at hikes@somocon.org .

SMC Hiking Guidelines

As a current SMC member, you can pre-register for any of these hikes.

Your financial support helps us maintain the 55+ miles of trails in the South Mountain Reservation!

Notes

Registration is required.
Read all Guidelines and Liability Waiver information before registering for a hike.
You may only register yourself. Liability waiver is part of registration process. Guests can access registration one week in advance through Meetup, Instagram or Facebook.
Should you need to cancel, do so online through Meetup. Contact hike leader with day of cancellations. Repeated no shows without prior cancellation will be removed from list.
Dogs are not permitted unless specified.
We ask hikers who are non-members to become paid members of the South Mountain Conservancy after three "free" hikes. Your membership dues help us maintain the trails of the South Mountain Reservation.

Prepare

Arrive to the starting point 10 minutes ahead of time so the hike can start promptly.
Bring water. Wear hiking boots, preferably waterproof, with good traction devices and poles (optional) to navigate possible slippery areas.
Times are our best estimates, but can vary depending on conditions, and the size or pace of a group.

FAQ

How do I cancel my RSVP in Meetup?
How do I know when a hike is cancelled? Steady rain cancels, but intermittent drizzle does not. You will not be notified. If you are unsure, contact hike leader (day of only).
How can I contact the hike leader? Hike leader contact info can be found in event listing.
What is the participant capacity? 25 hikers

Questions: hikes@somocon.org

Schedule February 2025

🥾 Elmdale & Beyond
Saturday, February 1, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
6.5 miles on multiple trails on the Elmdale side, returning to start on River trail. Moderate pace and difficulty.
Leader: Sharon Salmon, SMC Hike Leader

🥾 Live to the Beat Hike #1, 50+ only!
Sunday, February 2, 10:00 am
February is American Heart Month. Take small steps - join us for this 5-6 mile hike to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. We will hike 6 miles in the Turtle Back area. This is geared towards the 50+ community. Moderate pace and difficulty.
Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member

🥾 Turtle Back Ramble
Saturday, February 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
We will hike 6 miles in the Turtle Back area. Moderate pace and difficulty.
Leader: Sharon Salmon, SMC Hike Leader

🥾 Live to the Beat Hike #2 in reverse, 50+ only!
Sunday, February 2, 10:00 am
February is American Heart Month. Take small steps - join us for this 5-6 mile hike to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. We will hike the same 6 miles from Hike #1 in reverse in the Turtle Back area. This is geared towards the 50+ community. Moderate pace and difficulty.
Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member

🥾 Leave the SMR and explore Watchung Reservation w/ Dr. Kirk!
Saturday, February 22, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hike 3 to 4 miles in the Watchung Reservation at modest pace with a moderate hill. The trail is tricky with loose rocks. Be prepared for muddy and /or icy conditions. Participants must have good balance. Hiking poles and traction devices recommended. Features frozen waterfalls on the rock cliff and a bona fide geological wonder -- a hanging boulder! Limited to 25. Must register in Eventbrite- use link below.
Leader: Dr. Kirk Barrett, President of Rahway River Watershed Association