Easy hikes and walks around Summit
4.9
(31)
676
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93
hikes
Hiking around Summit offers a network of trails primarily through local parklands and wooded areas. The terrain features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible outdoor activities. Many routes follow established paths, providing opportunities for easy walks. The landscape is characterized by natural green spaces and some trails run alongside waterways.
Best easy hiking trails around Summit
- The most popular easy hiking route is Watchung White, Purple and Yellow Trail Loop, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3
hikers
6.34km
01:43
80m
80m
Hike the easy 3.9-mile Watchung White, Purple and Yellow Trail Loop through diverse woodlands and past historical sites in Watchung Reservat
2
hikers
1.86km
00:31
30m
30m
This easy 1.2-mile hiking loop in Watchung Reservation features unique geological formations like a purple boulder and ancient lava flows.
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2.28km
00:35
10m
10m
This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) hiking loop in Watchung Reservation offers a quick outdoor escape with varied scenery and minimal elevation gain
2.65km
00:42
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.6-mile Passaic River Trail for scenic river views, diverse wildlife, and a glimpse into local history.
12
hikers
3.21km
00:51
30m
30m
Hike the easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) Purple Trail in Watchung Reservation, featuring peaceful views of Lake Surprise.
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Tips from the Community
while a steep climb, great roads through nature with lots of nooks and cranies to explore.
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Throughout its 250-year history, the Badgley House served various purposes, from a residence to a stable and garage. Around 1907, it was relocated and repurposed as a barn for a riding stable until the 1940s. Tragically, an arsonist's fire in 1984 destroyed the house. Today, only a depression in the nearby Scout Camping Area lawn marks its original location.
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The Watchung Reservation is a vast parcel of protected land in Mountainside, New Jersey. There are hiking trails, parks/picnic areas, playgrounds, a Nature Center, an abandoned village, and a lake.
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Discover the remnants of the Drake family homestead at Drake Farm House. Once the heart of their farming endeavors in the early 20th century, this site holds historical significance. Despite the area's integration into the county park, traces of their legacy endure amidst the natural surroundings.
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There are nice scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and Blue Brook to be had from here. There is also a nearby car park too, so you could start your ride from here. There are nearby trails to do and the hilltop paved loop on Watchung Reservation is also a very popular short ride.
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There are nice scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and Blue Brook to be had from here. There is also a nearby car park too, so you could start your ride from here. There are nearby trails to do and the hilltop paved loop on Watchung Reservation is also a very popular short ride.
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Lake Surprise in New Jersey is a picturesque reservoir enveloped by lush greenery. Offering a serene escape, it invites visitors to explore its shores, fish in its clear waters, and revel in the beauty of nature's tranquillity within the heart of the Garden State.
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Lake Surprise is a reservoir that was created by the building of Lake Surprise Dam along the Blue Brook in Watchung Reservation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Summit?
There are over 70 easy hiking trails around Summit, offering a wide variety of options for accessible outdoor activities through local parklands and wooded areas.
Are there any easy loop trails in Summit?
Yes, Summit features several easy loop trails. A popular option is the Watchung White, Purple and Yellow Trail Loop, which is 3.9 miles long and takes about 1 hour 42 minutes to complete. Another shorter loop is the Watchung White Trail Loop, a 1.4-mile path through wooded areas.
What natural features can I see on easy hikes near Summit?
Many easy trails in Summit pass through natural green spaces and wooded areas. You can explore the Watchung Reservation, which offers diverse flora and tranquil surroundings. Some trails also run alongside waterways, such as the Passaic River Trail.
Are there any waterfalls or lakes accessible on easy trails?
While not directly on an easy trail, the beautiful Hemlock Falls is a notable natural attraction nearby. For lakes, you can find Lower Echo Lake and Lake Surprise Bathhouse within the broader Watchung Reservation area, offering scenic spots to enjoy.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Summit?
The trails around Summit are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from around 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the accessibility of these routes for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are the easy trails in Summit suitable for families with children?
Yes, the easy trails in Summit are generally suitable for families. Routes like the White and Purple Trail Loop, at just 1.2 miles with minimal elevation gain, are ideal for shorter, relaxing walks with children.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Summit?
Many trails in the Summit area, particularly within local parklands, are dog-friendly. It's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any restrictions, but generally, leashed dogs are welcome on most easy hiking paths.
What is the typical terrain like on easy hikes around Summit?
The terrain on easy hikes around Summit primarily consists of established paths through wooded areas and local parklands. You can expect gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for casual walks rather than strenuous climbs.
Are there any longer easy routes for a more extended walk?
For a longer easy walk, consider the Watchung White, Purple and Yellow Trail Loop, which covers 3.9 miles and can take around 1 hour 42 minutes. This route offers varied scenery for a more extended, yet still easy, experience.
Where can I find more information about trails and open spaces in Summit?
For additional details on local trails and open spaces in Summit, you can visit the official Summit County website, which often provides information on local regulations and trail access.
What is the shortest easy trail available?
The White and Purple Trail Loop is one of the shortest easy paths, at 1.2 miles (1.9 km), making it perfect for a quick and relaxing stroll.
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