Description
Hemlock Falls is a moderately large waterfall, almost directly next to (but on a different stream from) Hobble Falls. A quick, easy hike at South Mountain Reservation leads to this impressive waterfall.
Hemlock Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Watchung Mountains, standing 25.7 feet high. It is also the most dramatic, falling into a natural amphitheater surrounded by basalt cliffs. As with the other waterfalls in the Watchung Mountains, this waterfall is seasonal and features a small drainage area. The basalt bedrock quickly washes away precipitation, and its location atop a mountain allows little water storage. It is best to view Hemlock Falls after (or during) rain.
Parking
The main parking area is on South Orange Avenue. It can only be reached by driving eastbound (from the Livingston area). The parking area only holds about 10 cars and fills up quickly. Alternate parking can be found at Tulip Springs.
Directions
- Park at the Hemlock Falls parking area on South Orange Avenue and take the obvious trail.
- Almost immediately the Yellow Trail merges from the right. Continue straight, now on the Yellow Trail.
- At the obvious directory turn left.
- Continue straight until you reach Hobble Falls, then Hemlock Falls.
The directions are nearly the same if parking at the Tulip Springs lot. If you park there, take the Yellow Trail across the street from the parking area and follow it to the directory mentioned in Step 3 above.
Hemlock Falls Information
Click here for explanations on the information below
| Waterway | Hemlock Brook |
| Drainage Area (square miles) | 0.4 |
| Drainage Area Size | Small |
| Height (feet) | 25.7 |
| Latitude and Longitude | 40.750428 -74.288387 |
| Location | Maplewood, Essex County |
| Type | Cascade |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring |
| Property Type | County Park-South Mountain Reservation |
| Ease of Access | Easy |
Posts Featuring Hemlock Falls
The 10 Best Waterfalls in New Jersey
Did you know that New Jersey is home to over 80 incredible waterfalls? With that many waterfalls, it can be hard to determine which ones are the best and most worthwhile to visit. For that reason, we have compiled the 10 best waterfalls in New Jersey, ranging from easy-to-reach roadside waterfalls to others involving a…
Hemlock Falls and Hobble Falls Guide for South Mountain Reservation
South Mountain Reservation, is a large county park spanning multiple municipalities in Essex County. South Mountain Reservation is located on top of the First Watchung Mountain. It features many easy trails and a handful of waterfalls like Hobble Falls and Hemlock Falls. South Mountain Reservation is perfect for those living in Essex or Union County,…
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