Tips
November 23, 2023
Mountain biking
September 24, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hawkwatch Overlook
1
hikers
3.49km
01:04
130m
100m
Embark on the Splitrock Road to Hawk Watch via Four Birds Trail for a rewarding, albeit rugged, short hike through the Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area. You'll traverse a lively oak forest, catching views of Splitrock Reservoir and Misty Pond, before reaching the star attraction: the Hawkwatch Overlook. From this vantage point, you're treated to sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with the chance to see migrating raptors and even the Manhattan skyline on a clear day.
This easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hiking route involves 421 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes. Be aware that some sections, especially near Splitrock Reservoir, require a permit from the Newark Watershed Conservation and Development Corporation (NWCDC) in advance. Parking is available off Splitrock Road, but it's a popular spot, so an early start is recommended.
The Four Birds Trail is named for the four distinct bird species—wild turkeys, great blue herons, ospreys, and red-tailed hawks—observed along its length. Beyond the natural beauty, the area also holds historical intrigue with abandoned mine sites and old building foundations. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles around the reservoir, making it a prime location for nature enthusiasts.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
3.75km
01:05
140m
20m
The Hibernia Brook Trail winds through the Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area, offering a delightful mix of rooty singletrack and rocky sections alongside the crystal-clear Hibernia Brook. You'll encounter twisty paths and some steep pitches, giving this easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) hike a surprisingly engaging feel. The route, which takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete with 460 feet (140 metres) of elevation gain, immerses you in thick woods, occasionally revealing old mining berms and the potential for distant views from the Hawkwatch Overlook.
To plan your visit, head to the Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area. While specific parking details aren't always prominent, the area is generally accessible. The trail is a multi-use path, popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, so you might share the route. Consider visiting during seasons when foliage is less dense for better scenic views, and always bring water, especially on warmer days.
This trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, passing through an area once active with iron mines. It's part of a larger wildlife management area, preserving diverse plant life across bogs, rocky outcrops, and old fields. The Hibernia Brook Trail offers a dynamic outdoor space that provides a glimpse into both the natural and industrial past of the region.
6
hikers
10.3km
02:52
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 270 m
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Sunday 27 September
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