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

🥾 Hike with Dr. Kirk!
Friday, May 2, 5:30 pm
Join Dr. Kirk Barrett, expert on local water issues, and President of the Rahway River Watershed Association, for a hike in South Mountain Reservation. Hike about 4 miles in the evening, returning before the sun sets at 8p. Modest pace over rough, rocky (and possibly muddy ) trails with a moderately challenging climb from the Rahway River/Orange Reservoir up the west side of the First Watchung Mountain. Focus on the River's ecology and role in drinking water supply and proposals for modification of the reservoir for flood damage reduction. Children are welcome, at your discretion. No dogs please. Steady rain cancels.

🥾 Hello May Hike for the 50+ community
Saturday, May 10, 10:00 am
This hike is crafted to 50+ community and not suitable for beginners. 6 miles. Bring a talking point!
Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member

 🌲 Forest Bathing Hike w/ Jojo Abenaavi Wright
Sunday, May 11, 9.09 am to 10.39 am
Relational Forest Therapy™ is a guided practice inspired by Japanese Shinrin-yoku or "Forest Bathing," aimed at enhancing well-being through immersive experiences in natural environments. Participants engage in slow walks and stillness where they are invited to open their senses and experience nature freely, fostering reciprocal connections with the environment.

Mayapple Trail Runs!!!
Saturday, May 17, 8:30 am

Runners are invited to register for the 16th annual Mayapple Trail Runs to be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 in beautiful South Mountain Reservation in Essex County, N.J. The races are organized by the volunteers of the South Mountain Conservancy (SMC) with the support of the Essex County Parks Department. We also receive invaluable support from Sassquad Trail Running, which generously provides volunteer support for race timing and general event assistance.

🥾 A Mayapple Hike!
Saturday, May 24, 10:00 am
This hike is intentionally designed for keeping a more relaxed but a steady tempo and a very nice hike suitable for experienced and beginner levels.
Leader: Ivette Canjura, SMC Board Member