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Union County

Union

Attractions and Places To See around Union - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Union include a variety of natural landscapes and recreational areas. Located in New Jersey, the region offers diverse outdoor experiences, from waterfalls and lakes to expansive reservations. Visitors can explore a mix of natural monuments and developed parks suitable for various activities. The area provides opportunities for outdoor recreation within a suburban setting.

Best attractions and places to see around Union

  • The most popular attractions is Hemlock Falls, a waterfall that is…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Lower Echo Lake

Highlight • Lake

This is one of the two lakes that Echo Lake Park has to offer. You can observe people fishing, on pedal boats, or just enjoying the park. Lower Echo Lake features a nice waterfall that makes for a relaxing break.

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Hemlock Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Hemlock Falls is a small waterfall in the South Mountain Reservation in New Jersey. There are a few different trails that take you to the falls, but all end at …

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Watchung Reservation

Highlight • Forest

The Watchung Reservation is a vast parcel of protected land in Mountainside, New Jersey. There are hiking trails, parks/picnic areas, playgrounds, a Nature Center, an abandoned village, and a lake.

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Goethals Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

Bridge connecting Elizabeth, NJ and Staten Island, NYC with a dedicated pedestrian/bike path. Not a difficult climb, but wayfinding to and from the path isn't great. From Staten Island, Take Gulf Ave rather than Forest Ave for a safer approach.

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Warinanco Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Pleasant, green park with fields, trees and ponds. Smooth one-way road loops the park, approx 1.85 mi.

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Popular around Union

Hiking around Union

Running Trails around Union

Road Cycling Routes around Union

Cycling around Union

Tips from the Community

Me
July 12, 2025, Watchung Reservation

while a steep climb, great roads through nature with lots of nooks and cranies to explore.

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Me
July 12, 2025, Lower Echo Lake

generally lovely ride along some lakes, with access to bike friendly trails.

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Andrus
August 19, 2024, Lower Echo Lake

One of a pair of lakes in Echo Lake Park, Lower Echo Lake is a popular year-round destination. Pedal boating and fishing bring in visitors during the warmer months, while ice skating becomes available as the temperature drops.

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Matthew
December 15, 2023, Hemlock Falls

Hemlock Falls is a small waterfall in the South Mountain Reservation in New Jersey. There are a few different trails that take you to the falls, but all end at the bridge next to the falls. You can usually run to Hemlock Falls year round, but the waterfall is frozen solid in the winter months.

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Andrus
December 5, 2023, Lower Echo Lake

One of a pair of lakes in Echo Lake Park, Lower Echo Lake is a popular year-round destination. Pedal boating and fishing bring in visitors during the warmer months, while ice skating becomes available as the temperature drops.

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The Watchung Reservation is a vast parcel of protected land in Mountainside, New Jersey. There are hiking trails, parks/picnic areas, playgrounds, a Nature Center, an abandoned village, and a lake.

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Tyler Sanders
November 21, 2023, Lower Echo Lake

This is one of the two lakes that Echo Lake Park has to offer. You can observe people fishing, on pedal boats, or just enjoying the park. Lower Echo Lake features a nice waterfall that makes for a relaxing break.

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Jamie S.
November 20, 2023, Watchung Reservation

The Watchung Reservation is a vast parcel of protected land in Mountainside, New Jersey. There are hiking trails, parks/picnic areas, playgrounds, a Nature Center, an abandoned village, and a lake.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore around Union?

Union offers a variety of natural landscapes. You can visit Hemlock Falls, a beautiful waterfall within the South Mountain Reservation. Another popular spot is Lower Echo Lake, known for its serene waters and a small waterfall. For expansive natural areas, explore Watchung Reservation, which features forests, a lake, and numerous trails.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Union area?

Yes, several attractions are great for families. Lower Echo Lake in Echo Lake Park is family-friendly, offering pedal boating and fishing. Watchung Reservation also provides family-friendly amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and a Nature Center. Warinanco Park is another excellent choice with its green fields, trees, and ponds, perfect for a leisurely stroll or play.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Union's attractions?

The Union area is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on the trails around Hemlock Falls or within the vast Watchung Reservation. For cycling, the Goethals Bridge offers a dedicated pedestrian/bike path connecting to Staten Island, NYC. Parks like Warinanco Park and Echo Lake Park (home to Lower Echo Lake) are great for walking, jogging, and enjoying nature.

Are there hiking trails suitable for all skill levels around Union?

Yes, you'll find a range of hiking options. For easy walks, consider routes like the Nomahegan Park Loop or the Warinanco Park Loop. If you're looking for more moderate challenges, trails such as the Lenape and Rahway Trail Loop are available. You can find more details and routes in the easy hikes around Union guide and the hiking around Union guide.

Can I go cycling near the attractions in Union?

Absolutely. The Goethals Bridge features a dedicated path for cyclists, offering a unique ride. Additionally, parks like Warinanco Park have smooth loops suitable for cycling. For more cycling routes, explore the cycling around Union guide, which includes routes like the Diamond Mill Pond loop and the Nomahegan Park Wooden Bridge – Lower Echo Lake Waterfall loop.

What is there to do in Union during the winter months?

Even in winter, Union's attractions offer unique experiences. Hemlock Falls is particularly beautiful when it freezes solid, creating an impressive ice formation. Lower Echo Lake in Echo Lake Park becomes a popular spot for ice skating when temperatures drop sufficiently. Many trails in Watchung Reservation are also accessible for winter walks.

Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in Union?

Yes, several spots offer scenic views. Hemlock Falls itself is a picturesque natural monument. Lower Echo Lake provides tranquil lake views, often with a small waterfall adding to the scenery. The expansive Watchung Reservation also contains various viewpoints along its trails.

Where can I find a peaceful natural escape near Union?

For a peaceful escape, Watchung Reservation is an excellent choice. This vast protected land offers numerous hiking trails, a lake, and a Nature Center, providing a serene environment away from urban bustle. Lower Echo Lake also offers a relaxing setting for observing nature.

What are some unique man-made structures or landmarks to see?

The Goethals Bridge is a notable man-made landmark, connecting New Jersey with Staten Island, NYC, and featuring a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists. While primarily natural, Watchung Reservation also contains an abandoned village, adding a unique historical element to its natural landscape.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Union?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the tranquility of Hemlock Falls and the scenic trails within South Mountain Reservation. The family-friendly atmosphere and activities like pedal boating at Lower Echo Lake are also highly rated. The extensive hiking and natural environment of Watchung Reservation are also very popular among the komoot community.

Are there any parks with facilities for recreation in Union?

Yes, Warinanco Park is a well-equipped park featuring fields, trees, and ponds, with a smooth road loop for various activities. Watchung Reservation also offers facilities including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a Nature Center, making it a great spot for a full day out.

Most popular routes around Union

Easy hikes around Union

Most popular attractions around Union

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Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

ElizabethNew ProvidenceKenilworthMountainsideWestfieldVauxhallLindenConnecticut FarmsRoselle ParkSummitSpringfieldRoselleKean UniversityCranfordGarwoodRahwayPlainfieldFanwood

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