December 21
Time:12:03 am
GENERAL INFORMATION on Watchung Reservation
Watchung Reservation is a unique spot in Union County that spans a few towns, boasts a lake and deserted village, and is even the home of fossils. Put on your hiking boots and get outside to explore this outdoor spot.
The Lake Surprise Loop is one of the most well-traveled hikes in Watchung Reservation. It loops around the lake, with a few off-shoots of trails if you want to make your hike a little longer. Be careful of mud in the spring and fall, though.
On the north side of the park you can access the parking lot that leads you to the deserted village. Back in 1736, a family settled in the area now known as Watchung Reservation and opened a sawmill. After failing, another man, David Felt, bought the land in 1844 and built a mill. After 15 years of operating (and again failing to bring business to the area), it was again deserted. In 1882, the land was bought again and transformed the area into a “summer resort.” It failed for a final time in the early 1900’s and has since been said to be “haunted.” Read more on WeirdNJ.
