Hiking Hemlock Falls with a Toddler | South Orange NJ Family Adventure
Hiking Hemlock Falls with a toddler is not as daunting as it sounds. Hemlock Falls is a 25-foot waterfall tucked inside South Mountain Reservation in South Orange, NJ, and yes, it’s totally doable with little ones. This short, well-marked loop offers wide paths, easy terrain, and just enough adventure to keep toddlers exploring. Below, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit, including highlights from our own hike, plus tips from NJ Mom and local blogs to make your day smooth and scenic.
Why Hemlock Falls is Great for Families
- Short distance with big payoff: The hike to Hemlock Falls can be done as a 1.2‑mile out‑and‑back or a 1.6–1.8‑mile loop. The dirt path is wide with minor roots and rocks, and even the full loop’s “short uphill/downhill” is manageable for beginners.
- Easy access: A parking lot at Tulip Springs offers a trail kiosk with a large map. There is also an overflow lot off South Orange Avenue (Route 510) for a shorter walk to the falls.
- Clear markers: The hike follows the yellow‑blazed Lenape Trail to the falls, loops around on the red‑dot‑on‑white Hemlock Falls Loop, and returns on the yellow blazes.
- Part of a large nature preserve: South Mountain Reservation covers 2,112 acres and contains a segment of the 36‑mile Lenape Trail. Tall hemlocks shade streams and ponds, and the 25‑foot Hemlock Falls tumbles over boulders into a small pool.
Getting There
Step‑by‑Step Directions
- Start at Tulip Springs lot: Cross the paved road to the trailhead, which has a large park map and multiple blaze colors. Follow yellow blazes (Lenape Trail) on a wide dirt path.
- Pedestrian bridge: At 0.2 miles, turn right and cross a pedestrian bridge over South Orange Avenue. Keep following the yellow blazes.
- Map kiosk: At 0.4 miles you will see a large map kiosk, make a left turn; continue on the yellow trail.
- Hemlock Falls: At 0.6 miles, you will reach the base of Hemlock Falls. The waterfall drops 25 feet, the tallest in the park. A stone walkway and cute footbridge bring you right up close, with benches nearby for lunch/snacks.
Tip
Because the reservation’s network of trails is not perfectly marked, carrying a map and using GPS is strongly recommended. For a digital option, follow NJ Hiking’s interactive map on your phone
Tips for Hiking Hemlock Falls with a Toddler
- Bring water shoes & towels: Whether at Hobble Falls, the stone bridge, or the nature pools above Hemlock Falls, kids will get wet. Pack water shoes, a towel and a change of clothes.
- Snacks and water: There are benches near both waterfalls and along the ridge. Bring snacks, water and maybe a picnic lunch; the short hike leaves plenty of time to linger.
- Baby carriers and strollers: The trail is dirt with some roots and a short uphill/downhill, so leave the stroller at home and use a baby carrier for little ones or the tushbaby. Older toddlers can walk most of the way; allow 45–60 minutes plus playtime.
- Dog‑friendly: Dogs are allowed on leash
Final Thoughts
Hemlock Falls features waterfalls, stone bridges, staircases, and nature pools, all within a manageable distance for toddlers. Bring water shoes, snacks and an adventurous spirit, and you’ll have a toddler‑friendly hike your family will want to repeat. Hope you get to go on this adventure with your family!
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