Pyramid Mountain Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

This run accesses Tripod Rock on Pyramid Mountain using a 3+ mile, forested, quietly beautiful loop with rocky footpaths, stream crossings, overlooks, and memorable glacial erratics, including Tripod Rock and Bear Rock.

This route is incredibly popular, so come early if you don't want to be dodging other visitors!

Take a weekday early morning to explore this local gem in Morris County, NJ. Watch the forests fill with light in the quietude of Northern New Jersey woods, starting with crossing Stony Brook over a wooden footbridge.

This run is for all people, with all levels of fitness. The route includes some moderate elevation gain with huge rock outcroppings, scenic viewpoints, all leading to a 150-ton glacial erratic balanced on three small stones. Thought by some to be a Native American calendar site, this natural symbol of our local cultural/natural heritage compelled people to preserve the mountain.

You'll need the trail map or Trail Run Project mobile app for this run, especially if it is your first time visiting the park. Start at the trail kiosk (where there are typically free trail maps) and follow the Mennen Trail (Blue) over the footbridge.

0.2 miles into the woods, the Yellow Trail veers off to the right. Take it until you see the Orange Trail, which continues to wind its way through the forest, past stone outcroppings, and ultimately leads to great views of the Taylortown Reservoir.

At the next trail junction turn left (heading southwest); this is the Kinnelon Butler Trail (White), which leads to Tripod Rock, just after passing Big Cat Swamp. This is a gorgeous spot to stop for lunch while taking in this unique glacial erratic.

When you're ready to roll on, continue past the rock on the Kinnelon Butler Trail (White) for a short stint, until meeting the Mennen Trail (Blue) once again, which will lead you right back to the lot. This is by far the most popular run that takes you past Tripod Rock, so plan this run for an early morning weekday if you prefer some real peace and quiet.