Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve - Montclair, NJ
Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve – Dog-Friendly Nature Escape in Montclair, NJ
The Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve is a hidden gem nestled in Montclair, New Jersey, perfect for dog owners seeking a peaceful retreat with their furry friends. With easy, pet-friendly trails winding through serene woodlands, gentle streams, and vibrant greenery, this preserve offers an ideal spot for dog walking, nature photography, and escaping the bustle of everyday life. The preserve is especially popular among locals for its clean, safe, and well-maintained paths that are welcoming year-round.
Visitors enjoy short, shaded walks, an abundance of wildlife sightings, and a quiet environment suitable for all ages and abilities. Street parking is available nearby, and the park is open daily with free admission. While the area is not an off-leash dog park or fenced, it’s a favorite for dog-friendly hiking and walking in Montclair. Shade is plentiful along the wooded trails, making it comfortable for both people and pets even during warmer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve dog-friendly? Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails and are a common sight throughout the park.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, there is no designated off-leash area; dogs should remain leashed.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, the preserve does not have any fenced dog areas.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, most trails are shaded by trees, providing a cool environment for walking.
- Where can I park when visiting? Street parking is available near the entrance, though there is no official parking lot.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the preserve is open every day, all year long.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features easy, pet-friendly walking and hiking trails, popular with both dog owners and hikers.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Tick presence has been noted, so it’s recommended to check pets after your visit.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, visitors consistently note that the preserve is clean, safe, and well-cared for.
Reviews
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem.
Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic.
Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details.
Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street.
Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
Small open space with some walking trails.
Small open space with some walking trails.
Small open space with some walking trails.
Small open space with some walking trails.