Union County Olmsted Parks Greenway Walk.

Start: Cranford Train Station South Ave parking lot (we will wait for the 7:55 train) If you are driving to meet us please arrive earlier.

Distance: 12.5 miles

Finish: Union Train Station

Walk Leader: Cory Storch

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.

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.

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. Then back downstream on the Rahway River through Lenape Park a to wooded path that is the crown jewel of the NJ East Coast Greenway . Bathroom here as well.

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 double your mileage by walking on the Greenway in reverse.

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

Donations always appreciated as well. .

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