Union County Olmsted Parks Greenway Walk

Start: Cranford Train Station South Ave parking lot (we will wait for the 8:55 train) If you are driving to meet us please arrive earlier to check in.

Distance: 12.5 miles

Finish: Union Train Station or walk back to Cranford Station.

Walk Leader: Cory Storch

New Policy: Please leave your dog home! We love them but not on walks.

Transit: Arrive at Cranford Train Station (Raritan Valley Line) or drive to Cranford Station South Ave side (inbound). Free parking on weekends. At the finish, take the Raritan Valley train two stops west (outbound) back to Cranford.

Bathroom Stops: There are a few along the way.

Difficulty: Moderately easy depending on how far you choose to go. Some small hills, but mostly flat. Pace of about 3 mph. Group can spread out. Pack your water and snacks/lunch. No stopping except for short periods of time.

Optional: If you decide to shorten the route you are on your own to get back. Since this is a suburban walk, there is always the option of an Uber, bus of call a buddy.

We start on the East Coast Greenway and walk along the Cranford River. Because of its river, Cranford was once referred to as the Venice of New Jersey.

The first Olmsted park - Nomahegan - is an example of a park with active and passive use features with its typical Olmsted ponds, fountains, blacktop walking paths, sporting fields, open fields and woodlands. Bathroom here.

The second park, Lenape Park, has passive features (i.e. enjoy the scenery) and runs along the Rahway River .

Next is beautiful Echo Lake Park. with its iconic gazebo and 9/11 memorial. Bathroom here as well. Then back downstream on the Rahway River through Lenape Park a to wooded path that feels like one of the most remote sections of the NJ East Coast Greenway .

The fourth park path, in Black Brook Park, runs between a pond and fields. After crossing an abandoned rail line, walk alongside Galloping Hills Golf Course.

The remainder of the walk still follows the East Coast Greenway - through suburban streets until Morris Ave. The last short stretch brings you to Kean University and the Union Train Station. Take the train back to the start or walk in reverse on the Greenway to add an additional 7 - 12 more miles.

Please register here and if your plans change you can always let us know.

Cold weather will not cancel the walk, only dangerous weather. If so, you will be notifed the night before by email here.

Donations always appreciated as well. .