Essex County Park System is the oldest park system in the country, and its enormous South Mountain Reservation is home to just about everything you could hope to find in a park. If you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip destination, head to this complex of natural wonders, man-made entertainment, fairies, and wildlife!

New Jersey's South Mountain Reservation covers more than 2,000 acres in Essex County and offers just about everything you could hope for in a family-friendly park.
AllTrails / He Jia
There are miles and miles of hiking trails, including some that take you to towering, tumbling cascades.
AllTrails / Sudeshna Maiti
One of the hiking trails has a fairy house forest! These tiny homes were crafted with natural materials by the caretaker of the fairy trail. Be careful not to damage them!
Facebook / South Mountain Fairy Trail
There's a dog park in the preserve, too, so your best pal can play and make some friends while burning off their excess energy.
Essex County Parks

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Speaking of excess energy... if you come to South Mountain Reservation with kids, you'll want to explore the South Mountain Recreation Complex, too.
Wikimedia Commons / z22
Here, you'll find an outrageously cool mini golf course that's both fun and challenging.
Facebook / South Mountain Reservation Complex
No visit to South Mountain is complete without a stop at the Turtle Back Zoo, too.
Facebook / Turtle Back Zoo
This small, well-maintained zoo started off with just local wildlife, but has expanded to feature animals from all over the globe.
Google Local / Jason Huang

Read all about how There Are Magical Fairy Houses Hiding At South Mountain In New Jersey Just Like Something Out Of A Storybook more information on the New Jersey Fairy Trail, and for information about the Turtle Back Zoo, take a peek at their website.

If you’re looking for more information on the trails and other features of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, visit South Mountain Reservation online.

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South Mountain Reservation, Cherry Ln, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA