Watchung Reservation - Sensory Trail
About This Trail
This trail is an incredible opportunity for kids and toddlers to engage all 5 senses in nature. The trail is very short (only 0.3 miles total), but plan about 35 – 45 minutes to experience all the activities along the trail.
The trail is made of packed dirt with some boardwalk. It is wide, flat, and easy to walk. The trail is very stroller friendly. Along the trail, you will find some engaging activities for kids, such as listening boards, musical instruments, flower boxes, and climbing sections.
The trail is also specifically designed to be all-access and is wheelchair accessible (as long as there is no snow on the trail). The trail itself has accommodations for visually impaired hikers, such as a follow rope, Braille text, and sound read-aloud signs.
Right next to the trail head is the Trailside Nature Center. Be sure to check that out, too! The center is open 7 days a week from 12-5pm. There is also a playground within sight of the trailhead if you want to add that onto your adventure, too!
Trail Features
| Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter |
|---|---|
| Surface type | Dirt |
| Stroller friendly | Yes |
| Stroller terrain | Any Wheels |
| ADA accessible | Yes |
| Water fountains | Yes |
| Bathrooms | Yes |
| Cell reception | Excellent |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | Yes |
| Camping Nearby | No |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
Yes |
Trail highlights
Fee & Parking Details
The Trailside nature center has a very large parking lot available. The trail head for the sensory trail is around the side of the building.
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.
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Parking
Trail Head
Weather
Trail Map
Getting There
From Rt. 22 in Mountainside, turn onto Glenside Avenue. Follow Glenside Ave to the end and turn right onto Sky Top Drive. Follow Sky Top Drive until it takes a hard right turn. The entrance to the parking lot is located right at this bend in the road.
In GPS, use this address: 452 New Providence Rd, Mountainside, NJ 07092
About The Guide