Round Valley - Waterfront Trail
About This Trail
The waterfront trail holds true to its name! It curves along the shoreline of the Round Valley Reservoir. The trail is made of dirt and rock, approximately 4 ft wide, and relatively flat. However, it is not stroller friendly. The trail is marked with blue trail markers. It is an out and back trail with beautiful views of the peaceful reservoir. If you follow the trail to the end and back, you will hike about 3 miles. But you can shorten the hike by turning around earlier.
Make sure you stop along one of the numerous beach access points to throw some rocks, take some photos, or have a picnic. The beach is a mix of rock and sand. The views are gorgeous!
Trail Features
Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter |
---|---|
Surface type | Dirt |
Stroller friendly | No |
Stroller terrain | No Wheels |
ADA accessible | No |
Water fountains | No |
Bathrooms | Yes |
Cell reception | Spotty |
Pet friendly | Yes |
Nearby convenience store | Yes |
Camping Nearby | Yes |
Emergency support within 5 miles |
No |
Trail highlights
Camping is offered at Round Valley Reservoir, but the campground is only accessible by boat or by foot along the much more challenging Cushetunk trail (not child friendly).
Camping is available at nearby Spruce Run Reservoir, too.
Fishing is allowed along the Reservoir with valid NJ fishing license.
Fee & Parking Details
Fees are only applied between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The weekday fee is $5 for NJ car or $10 for out of state car. On weekends, the fee increases to $10/$20.
Parking for the trail head is in the SOUTH parking lot of the park. To access the lot, make the first right after passing the entry booth. The parking lot is quite spacious.
Trail Contributor

I have been a member of Hike It Baby since February 2017 and became an ambassador in September 2018. I have two kids (toddler and baby) and have enjoyed being outside with them so much in their young lives.