Six Mile Run

Escape into nature and history at the Six Mile Run Reservoir Site, a sprawling 3,037-acre preserved land in the heart of central New Jersey, part of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. This unique landscape, once envisioned as a reservoir, now offers an essential outdoor experience with its diverse terrain of former farmlands, mature forests, and tranquil wetlands. Visitors can explore 13.5 miles of marked trails that provide a serene escape and a glimpse into the region's rich agricultural past.

The park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can spot red tail hawks, turkey vultures, great horned owls, and marsh hawks soaring above open fields, while water-loving species like ducks, great blue herons, and kingfishers frequent the Six Mile Run stream. Along the trails, observant visitors might also encounter woodchucks and red foxes. The vibrant flora includes Pin Oaks, Box Elders, Ash trees, and seasonal blooms like may apples, cut-leaved toothwort, and spring beauties in the hardwood forests.

Six Mile Run Reservoir Site is a journey through both natural beauty and living history. Beyond the captivating ecosystems, the trails weave past the architectural remains of 18th and 19th-century Dutch-framed barns, farmhouses, windmills, and silos, preserving the legacy of early colonial settlers. With its blend of recreational activities, abundant wildlife, and historical charm, Six Mile Run offers a memorable outdoor adventure for all who seek to connect with nature and the past. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.