The Crag, South Mountain Reservation — Local services in West Orange

One of the lesser known sites to explore in South Mountain Reservation, this observation point known as The Crag offers views of the reservoir below. The site is a simple stone and timber structure with wooden benches under the roof and a stone bench outside of it. Unfortunately the trees on the hill have been left to grow well beyond their original state blocking the view in the summer months. The Lenape Trail here is also narrow and overgrown so it’s best to do the hike and take in the view in the winter before the leaves bud out. The trail actually rises slightly to the south and with a thinner canopy the views are actually better, but the site is still worth checking out if you want to explore all the reservation...

Our gang grew up in the WestMill! We called the Crag “THE WITCH HOUSE” initials were carved on its wood panels from the 40’s on. I attached mine in 1979. Then it was burned a decade later. The best stop to gather your thoughts! In the Fall, the views Are best! Over looking the reservation, the Ice rink and the Turtleback zoo hearing the train whistle from up there…...

In the late 50's and early 60's my father brought me to the Crag. In the 80's I found the Crag overgrown and the roof burned. A group of bicyclists and myself pulled many weeds and trees...The roof was replaced ,....In December of 2024 I returned to the Crag to find a traveler from China hiking the trail..............please enjoy this...