Hemlock Falls Trail Head - Short Hills, NJ
If you’re searching for a picturesque dog park in Short Hills, New Jersey, Hemlock Falls Trail Head is a local gem that offers scenic, pet-friendly hiking trails for both two- and four-legged adventurers. This area is ideal for those looking to explore dog-friendly trails surrounded by natural beauty, including the striking Hemlock Falls itself. Visitors praise the peaceful environment, vibrant fall foliage, and the variety of trails available for all difficulty levels. Bring your leashed pup for a day of adventure, and make sure to take in the view at the top of the waterfall for a truly memorable outing!
The park is also family-friendly, making it a great destination for kids and nature lovers alike. While dogs must remain on leash, the varied trails and longer paths ensure plenty of exercise and excitement for energetic pups. Reviewers love using trail apps like AllTrails to navigate the many paths, and recommend coming early to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Hemlock Falls Trail Head? Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails as long as they are kept on a leash.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple trails of varying lengths and difficulties throughout Hemlock Falls Trail Head.
- Is the park good for kids and families? Yes, the park is suitable for families and is often visited by groups with children.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can get crowded on weekends, so it’s recommended to come early for the best experience.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trails are mostly tree-lined, providing natural shade along the routes.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some areas, especially near the falls and on rocky paths, may be muddy after rainfall.
Reviews
I used the All trails app to navigate the trail. We went a day after some rainfall so the waterfalls were nice. Many different trails to follow. Definitely recommend!
There were some rocky paths, but it was a long and interesting trail that the dogs enjoyed as much as we did. There was a steep incline to the waterfall; and a much easier, windy one for people like me and the dogs. We then opted for a longer, broader path back to our starting point.
There were women with groups of children, and single men walking. Might be safer to walk in groups, especially if you have an accident and need immediate help. A lovely place for a nature walk. Might be a great place for nature trips for schools.
Great time to visit now for the fall foliage.
The route can be challenging with the rocky roads, but it’s worth the hike.
Stumbled upon an entryway one day, went through the hassle of getting an app the next day to find some trails. Walked a few miles to get to the waterfall to then discover it was a 3 minute walk away from where I parked the previous day. Lol what fun. Such a peaceful place, the effort seemed negligible. Trust google and the colored markings on the trees for the respective trails. Now my go to thinking place. 🥰
There are various trails, so leads to the same areas, while other leads to another destination. Make sure you plan ahead which trail you want to take. Hobble Falls and Maple Falls Cascades had no water, but the Hemlock Falls was beautiful. Get there early as it is crowded. I do recommend climbing up the stairs to the top of the waterfall!