Reviews of Lake Orange reservoir

Constructed in 1888 to serve as a reservoir for the citify of Orange, today it’s the center of a public park. The 1.7 mile trail around the reservoir is a great walk to observe the diverse wildlife that calls the reservoir home. Ducks, geese, herons, cormorants, fish, turtles, frogs, a diversity of insects, and so much more can be found here.

Great place to walk day or night. 1.7 mile loop, well-paved, well-lit and public restrooms. Has a nice kids playground and rental pedal boats. Sometimes cool wildlife - geese, ducks, herons, turtles and an occasional bald eagle - enjoy!

Note: A lap around the reservoir is not 2 miles. The 2 mile zoo loop starts by the marker on Northfield Ave in front of the treetop course (across the street from Primrose School. One lap is closer to 1.5 miles. A lovely paved walk around the reservoir- you always see ducks, geese, turtles and a variety of birds (sometimes cranes and eagles!). Easy access to several parking lots and the zoo loop connects to other trails in the South Mountain Reservation system if you’re looking for a longer walk or hiking. During the Spring & Fall, there are many walks/runs held at this location, so if visiting during a weekend in these seasons check the event calendar on the Essex County Parks website. A gem to have in West Orange, the whole complex offers a variety of activities for the whole family: zoo, treetop adventure course, playground, fishing, paddle boats, mini golf, and a restaurant with outdoor seating (and a nice view!).

Beautiful 2 mile loop, great for dog walking! Easy plentiful parking at the mcloone boathouse!

Since the walk way around the Reservoir openned this is my favorite place to go for my excercise walk. I never get tired of walking this path. It varies by season on your encounters both with nature and humans. It is a very popular place for people to go which can make for some large crowds but once on the trail it is no problem. Often, you are treated with sightings of different birds. The path is paved, so it is wheelchair and baby carriage friendly. It really is a family spot as well. They have paddle boat rentals, in season, and a great playgrounds for kids. Then there is the traditional picknick area, as well. Parking on a beautiful day in summers, especially on weekends can get a little tight. If you do not like the crowds, then during the late spring through mid fall, stay away on weekends.