The G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve (also known as the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve) is a 120-acre park centered on the 75-acre Upper Lake, formerly the Haledon Reservoir. Despite being located in the heart of Franklin Lakes and bordering major roads, the trail system here is surprisingly good. The paths offer frequent views of the lake and the neighboring High Mountain.

Basic Information

Pros and Cons

Points of Interest

• Upper Lake
  • The centerpiece of the preserve, and the former Haledon Reservoir.

Trails

The preserve features two marked trails: the White Shoreline Loop and the Blue Island Bridges Trail. The trails on the eastern side of the preserve (the Island Bridges Trail and the eastern half of the Shoreline Loop) are surprisingly enjoyable, featuring minimal road noise and pleasant views of neighboring residential areas.

The other half of the Shoreline Loop runs adjacent to Ewing Avenue and High Mountain Road, making it much less enjoyable due to traffic.

If you are looking for a quick hike, stick to the Island Bridges Trail and the eastern portion of the Shoreline Loop.

Boating

Visitors are welcome to bring their non-motorized car-top boats onto the Upper Lake. There is no drop-off point, and the launch is a very short walk uphill from the parking area. Boaters are limited to the main lake area and cannot enter the “lagoon” as the bridges from the Island Bridges Trail make passage impossible. The lake is only 75 acres (including the lagoon, so even smaller in reality), so it is best for a quick paddle.

Rentals are available for those who do not have their own equipment.

Parking

There is only one parking area for the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve: a moderately sized lot with about 40 parking spaces at Nature Preserve Driveway, North Haledon, NJ 07508. If this lot is full, there are a couple of signed overflow spots along the entrance road. The lot is perpetually busy, though you can typically find parking.

Crowds

The G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve nearly always has a crowd, though never unmanageable. As mentioned above, you can typically find parking.

Maintenance

Maintenance is very good, with all trails clearly marked. Despite its popularity, the park is clean and clearly cared for.

Who is this park for?

The G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve is best for those looking for a quick and easy walk (or paddle). While it’s generally used by locals, the preserve is worth a short drive thanks to the scenic trails along its eastern side. I would not drive more than 20 minutes, but for those within this radius looking for a unique place to walk, this is a great option.

Final Thoughts

The G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve is surprisingly nice. The fact that many trails run along a major road initially turned me off, but they are surprisingly scenic and enjoyable. For those who have been eyeing the preserve but have been nervous about the road noise, give it a chance.

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