Dog walking in West Orange

Eagle Rock Reservation

At just over 400 acres, Eagle Rock Reservation isn’t the biggest nature reserve in the area, but it’d still be a huge faux paw not to check it out! Eagle Rock is a nice hike at any time of year, but it’s extra special in fall, when the trees burst into a riot of color. Most of the wooded trails don’t have much of an incline, but rise to the challenge on the steeper path and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the New York skyline. Be warned, though -- bug spray is a must in summer, or you and your buddy will be scratching all the way home!

South Mountain Reservation

If Eagle Rock is worth a look, South Mountain Reservation is a mutts-visit! Right on the border of West Orange and Maplewood, the trails here are much more extensive and feature beautiful waterfalls and a serene lake. More importantly, though, South Mountain Reservation has its own dog park! There’s plenty of room in both the large and small dog areas for your pooch to run around and burn off some energy, and fitter furry friends are sure to appreciate the doggy agility course. Bags and water are provided, so just bring your pup and prepare to play!

Downtown Caldwell

Caldwell is just a fifteen-minute drive from West Orange, and it’s well worth the gas money to stop in at the puntastically named Pupcake Bakery! You’re sure to find a treat here to make even the pickiest pooch sit up and beg -- they stock everything from healthy everyday rewards to more occasional indulgences, like peanut butter bones and doggy brownies. Afterward, you two can burn it all off in Grover Cleveland Park. A lovely little spot for a leashed walk, this pawesome creekside park features a couple of paved walking paths and some quaint, old-timey footbridges. Don't forget to bring those waste bags!

Montclair

Of course, owners need to eat too, and you’ll be spoiled for choice of dog-friendly eateries in nearby Montclair! Just Jakes is an excellent place for you and your buddy to chow down -- the quesadillas are delicious, their outdoor patio is large and well-shaded, and they’ll even put out bowls of water on a hot day. If you two fancy something a little different, consider stopping by Pure Pita. This local gem has a pretty extensive Greek menu and caters to canines outside. Or, for a slightly more upscale experience, check out La Petite Parisien, and make sure to sample the macarons!

Watsessing Park

If you two are looking for a little variety in your off-leash adventures, you’d be barking mad not to check out the Watessing Dog Park in Bloomfield! The off-leash area is huge -- there’s enough space here for even the most energetic fur-ball to leap about to their heart’s content. There’s a separate small dog area, so your pooch can socialize no matter their size, and tired owners are sure to appreciate the ample seating. Bags and water are provided, and as an added bonus, the park has recently been revamped, and there are now doggy obstacle courses in both areas!