WEST MILFORD — Celebrate National Trails Day with New Jersey Conservation Foundation on Saturday, June 7, during a guided hike at the Apshawa Preserve in West Milford.
The moderately strenuous hike in the heart of the New Jersey Highlands begins at 9:30 a.m. at the preserve’s parking lot at 4 Northwood Road, one block from the intersection of Macopin Road.
The hike will be held rain or shine and will be led by Ingrid Vandegaer, New Jersey Conservation’s Highlands regional manager. Hikers will traverse rugged terrain on the way to the picturesque Butler Reservoir. Highlights include an overlook with dazzling views of the water, and a visit to a rocky peninsula jutting out into the reservoir.
The hike will take about two hours from start to finish. Hikers should wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes, and bring water and a snack. For online directions and trail maps, go to www.njconservation.org/html/preserves/apshawa.htm.
The cost is $5 per person, and advance registration is required. To register online, go to https://donate.njconservation.org/national-trails-day-hike-2014. For more information, contact Bill Lynch at blynch@njconservation.org or 908-997-0725.
Owned by Passaic County and New Jersey Conservation Foundation, the 576-acre Apshawa Preserve offers a diversity of habitats in the heart of the Highlands. The Butler Reservoir is a scenic attraction for hikers and birdwatchers, and the Apshawa Brook flows through the preserve to the Pequannock River. Nearly seven miles of blazed trails traverse the preserve and are open to the public for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, nature study and fishing.
The National Trails Day Hike at Apshawa is part of New Jersey Conservation’s “Step Into Nature” series of outdoor events.
For more information about the Foundation’s programs and preserves, go to www.njconservation.org or call 1-888-LAND-SAVE (1-888-526-3728).