1
hikers
01:06
4.12km
50m
Hiking
Embark on the Mills Reservation Loop, an easy hiking route spanning 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle 168 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain. You can complete this loop in about 1 hour and 6 minutes, making it a perfect quick escape into nature. As you hike, you will…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.98 km
134 m
Surfaces
3.78 km
202 m
113 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Tuesday 12 May
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6°C
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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is typically available at the Mills Reservation itself. Look for designated parking areas near the main trailheads to access the loop.
Yes, the Mills Reservation Loop is a dog-friendly trail. Many visitors enjoy hiking here with their dogs. Please remember to keep your dog leashed and clean up after them.
The trail is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring is particularly special due to the annual hawk watch. The dense tree canopy provides ample shade, making it a pleasant hike even on warmer days.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Mills Reservation or hike its trails, including the Mills Reservation Loop.
The main Mills Loop Trail is approximately 1.4 to 1.5 miles long and can generally be completed in under an hour, depending on your pace.
Yes, the Mills Reservation Loop is largely graded as 'easy' and is very suitable for beginners and families. The trails are not overly steep, making it an enjoyable experience for most activity levels.
The terrain offers a mix of surfaces. While the main loop can sometimes resemble a gravel road, other sections feature rocky paths, including 'trap rock' formations. You should be prepared for uneven ground, though elevation changes are generally not steep.
A significant highlight is Quarry Point, a 500-foot basalt ledge. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views stretching from Montclair to Newark, the Hudson River, and even the iconic Manhattan skyline.
Yes, the Mills Reservation Loop is a segment of the much larger, 34-mile Lenape Trail. Within the reservation, you'll also find other blazed trails such as the Eastview Trail (blue blazes), Woodland Trail (purple blazes), and Reservoir Trail (red blazes), offering multiple options for exploration.
The reservation is home to diverse plant and animal species within its natural forest setting. It's particularly renowned for its annual hawk watch, as many raptors migrate directly over the area in spring. The geological formations at Quarry Point, a result of ancient volcanic activity, also offer scientific interest.
Yes, the Mills Reservation Loop can be hiked in winter. The trails are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions, especially on rocky sections.