🥾 March Hikes with SMC 🥾

MARCH 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 March 15th 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 more hikes specifically geared towards the 50+ community. Check it 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 March 2025

🥾 Tulip Springs Friday Fun
Friday, March 7, 10:00 am
A 4-5 mile moderate paced hike. Some elevation (400 ft give or take).
Leader: Donna Burkat, SMC Hike Leader

🌸 International Women's Day Hike at Mayapple, 50+ only
Saturday, March 8, 10:00 am
March is Women's History Month and 3/8 is International Women's Day. Take a break with a hike in the forest.
Open to all (men & women)!
Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member

🥾 Bramhall Ramble, Version 2
Sunday, March 9, 10:00 am
About 5 miles on a mix of woods roads and trails.
Leader: Lou Nocito, SMC Hike Leader

🥾 Join Dr. Kirk Barrett, expert on local water issues, and President of the Rahway River Watershed Association, for a winter hike in South Mountain Reservation.

Hike about 4-5 miles at a modest pace over rough, rocky (and possibly muddy or icy) trails with a moderate climb from the Rahway River/Orange Reservoir up the west side of the First Watchung Mountain. Focus on the River's role in drinking water supply and proposals for modification of the reservoir for flood damage reduction. Hiking poles recommended, along with traction devices if icy.

Children are welcome, at your discretion. No dogs please. Snowy roads cancel.

🥾 First of Spring Hike from Greenwood Gardens, 50+ only
Saturday, March 22, 10:00 am
Start and finish on the blue Elmdale trail, crossing over onto Rahway Trail/white over Rahway River, picking up the Lenape/yellow trail to Hemlock Falls and stopping for a brief break. We will head back on River Trail, over the green/white West Connector trail, Elmdale and West Ridge. • Must be able to walk 5+ miles.Leader: Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member

🥾 Oakdale from Mayapple Ramble
Sunday, March 23, 10:00 am
From Mayapple Hill for a 3.5-4-mile moderate paced hike
Leader: Lou Nocito, SMC Hike Leader