G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve (formerly known as Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve) - Franklin Lakes, NJ
G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve Dog-Friendly Trails in Franklin Lakes, NJ
Nestled in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve (formerly Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve) is a pet-friendly retreat offering scenic lake views, beginner-friendly trails, and abundant natural beauty. Visitors and their leashed dogs can enjoy peaceful walks around the easy, mostly flat loop trail that winds by the water and through serene wooded areas. The trails make this spot perfect for those seeking dog-friendly hiking or simply unwinding with their canine companion in a tranquil environment close to nature.
This preserve is known for its striking sunsets over the water, permanent resident swans, and clean surroundings that are maintained with community pride. There is plenty of parking, and access points from local roads make it convenient for visitors. While there are no dedicated off-leash or fenced dog areas, leashed pets are welcome throughout the trails. If you are looking for a dog park alternative in Franklin Lakes, NJ with pet-friendly trails and relaxing lake vistas, this is a great local option.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must remain on leash while enjoying the trails.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is usually readily available. Visitors often use the back of the Church parking lot on Ewing Ave or a side street before the (blocked) entrance on High Mountain Road.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features several hiking trails, including an easy loop around the lake with floating docks and bridges.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews consistently note that the park and its trails are very clean and well-maintained.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some paths can get muddy after rain, especially deeper into the preserve, so it’s best to wear suitable footwear.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can become busier, especially on weekends and during good weather, though it’s generally peaceful in the early mornings.
Reviews
Peaceful lake views make this a really lovely spot for an easy walk, especially around sunset when the water reflects the sky. The loop is mostly flat and beginner-friendly, but a few sections of the trail could use more upkeep, some overgrown areas and uneven spots here and there.
Parking is usually easy to find, and the walk around the lake is just long enough to feel refreshing without being exhausting. It’s not a strenuous hike, more of a laid-back nature stroll, but still a nice way to get outside and unwind.
Super nice and clean we always go there and it’s always fun. Definitely recommended
A great local nature preserve with a beautiful lake view and permanent resident swans.
A few trails for great family hikes. But wear good shoes for the terrain is a bit rough at some spots.
It’s our family’s go-to place for a causal hike and grocery shopping at the Fresh Grocer(less than a mile away) on the way home. 👍
WARNING: The main entrance has been closed since Covid due to over crowding (not that the town would admit this… but I pass through once a week and have seen this place evolve). For people looking to get out on the water with a kayak or whatever? Good luck. Hikers and Bikers? Much easier route. You can park in the back of the Church parking lot on Ewing Ave or the side street before the (blocked) entrance on High Mountain Road (on your right just past the Temple). The place is always insanely clean and beautiful. The trail around the lake is easy level wise but there is a TON of roots so watch your step in many areas. The highlight of the trail is where there are floating docks to cross the lake on the Ewing Ave side (the trails on that side are also easier – sometimes muddy though and there is a nice bridge with a stream also). There are local swans and ducks to check out… the occasional cormorant… sometimes you catch a turtle sunning on the banks of the trail. This is not always the most quiet/intimate of spots as there is a pretty steady stream of traffic on Ewing and High Mountain Road…
Be a good steward, keep the place clean… plus if you are hungry the two supermarkets within 5 minutes are both outstanding (The Fresh Grocer, North Haledon and The Market Basket in Franklin Lakes)… Market Basket is more high end but it is worth every penny.
Perfect place for a relaxing morning walk. The trails are very clean and terrain is flat, making it an easy walk for most people. Some of the paths deeper into the preserve can get muddy after rain, so you should wear gear you do not mind getting dirty. Plenty of parking available as well.
I went around 7 am on a Sunday and it was very quite. It takes ~10 minutes to get to the end of the Island bridges trail.