Morris Canal Park - Ledgewood, NJ
Morris Canal Park: Dog-Friendly Trails & Natural Beauty in Ledgewood, NJ
If you’re searching for a scenic and pet-friendly destination, Morris Canal Park in Ledgewood, New Jersey, offers picturesque hiking loops, historic charm, and dog-friendly trails. Set along the remnants of the historic Morris Canal, this park features marked hiking trails with beautiful views of a serene lake and brook. Nature lovers and their dogs will appreciate the natural surroundings, the sounds of wildlife, and the peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing walk or mini hike.
The park boasts two well-marked trails (identified with blue, yellow, and white blazes) and a loop around the lake, making it a favorite spot for those looking for dog-friendly hiking in Ledgewood. While there’s no fenced dog area or off-leash section, the spacious grounds, scenic pond, and picnic tables offer a wonderful setting for outdoor adventures with your pup. Parking is available, though not paved, and the area is generally clean and well-maintained. Be advised to bring bug spray, check for ticks, and wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain.
Frequently Asked Questions about Morris Canal Park
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Morris Canal Park features marked hiking trails and a scenic loop around the lake, perfect for dog walkers and nature lovers.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? The park features a pond, but there is no information confirming a specific swimming area for dogs.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are a few picnic tables where owners can sit and relax.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, visitors comment that the park is generally clean and well-kept.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is decent parking at the park, though it is not paved and includes some handicapped accessible spots.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, visitors have reported encountering ticks, so it’s recommended to check yourself and your dog after your visit.
Reviews
The park was very pleasant. It was clean & had decent parking. There were a few picnic tables with handicapped parking nearby. It is not a paved lot nor were there any paved paths. There is a pond stocked with fish. The gentlemen who were fishing were satisfied. There were two marked trails. The only reason I didn’t give I five stars is because the parks descriptive sign that provides history & basic information was very worn making it difficult to read. The photos are of tadpoles in the pond & an interesting trunk we pased.
Great mini-hike 421 ft. Elevation gain, 2 miles, pond, brook, plus walked Main St. To see historic homes.
I found this place by chance and despite the cold and rain, I had to explore it. There is one looped trail around the lake area and on the other end markings of blue, yellow and white for trail identity. I can’t wait to check it out on a sunny spring day.
BEWARE OF TICKS!!! Please check yourself and your dogs for ticks when visiting. I removed 3 from my dog.
Great place to sit and listen to the sounds of nature with a beautiful lake. Hiking trails throughout the park. Recommend good shoes and bug spray.
In 1982, I photographed the turbine room at Morris Canal Inclined Plane 2 East in Ledgewood, NJ, a striking remnant of 19th-century ingenuity. The sturdy stone and timber chamber housed the powerful turbine that drove the cable system, effortlessly pulling canal boats up the steep incline to navigate the Morris Canal’s elevation changes (1829–1924). Standing there, I could almost hear the hum of the turbine and the creak of boats, a vivid glimpse into the canal’s vibrant industrial era, now preserved in the quiet of Canal Park.