Are dogs allowed on Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail?

No, Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail?

Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail is rated moderate. It is 5.3 miles long with 942 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See New Jersey trail conditions

Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail

ModerateLoop

New Jersey

Hillspur Trail, Zoo Loop and Reservoir Trail

Maplewood, New Jersey

5.3 mi

Distance

942 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 59m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The five-miler makes a fun loop of most of the north eastern section of the South Mountain Reservation. Start at the parking lot by Cherry Lane, then take the Lenape trail for a short while until it joins the Hillspur trail. The Turtleback Interpretive trail leads to the Zoo trail at the 2.2 mile mark. You'll hit the Reservoir trail after 2.6 miles. You should follow this for a short time until you reach the Turtle Back trail. This will lead you back to the lot. You can take the Lenape all the way to South Orange Avenue and back to the lot.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:91 ft

Max:189 ft

287 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.