Trailside Nature & Science Center

Trailside Nature & Science Center At A Glance...

• Features a 'Night Theater' exhibit that immerses you in a nocturnal forest scene.
• Home to the first 'Sensory Friendly Trail' in Union County, designed for all abilities.
• The Visitor Center is built around a massive 34-foot American Beech tree model.
• Todays Sunrise: 7:16 am,   Sunset: 4:59 pm  
• New Jersey Gateway Region Union County
• Trailside Nature & Science Center is part of  Watchung Reservation

• Activities:

  • Star Gazing / Astronomy
  • Walking

  Amenities:

  • Restrooms/Bathrooms
  • Parking Lot(s)
  • Nature / Environmental Center
  • Picnic / Sitting Area
  • Benches
  • Picnic tables
  • Planetarium

  Attractions:

  • Museum / Gallery

  Rules/Regulations:

  • Alcohol Not Permitted

Contact / Location

A Brief History

Trailside began humbly in 1941 when a small nature display was set up on a table in a plant nursery garage. It proved so popular that it quickly expanded, adopting the National Park Service's "trailside museum" model. A dedicated planetarium was added in 1969, and the modern visitor center we see today was designed by renowned architect Michael Graves in 1975 (expanded in 2006). It stands as a testament to Union County's long-term commitment to environmental education.

Programs / Education

The center offers a robust lineup of educational programs for all ages.

• Toddler Time: Weekly nature-themed classes for children ages 3 and under with a caregiver.
• Summer Camps: Half-day and full-day camps for grades Pre-K through 9.
• Senior Nature Walks: Guided hikes specifically for residents aged 55+.
• Scout Programs: Workshops designed to help scouts fulfill badge requirements.

Trail & Path Info

Trailside is the primary trailhead for the 2,000+ acre Watchung Reservation.

• Sensory Friendly Trail: A 0.3-mile ADA-accessible loop featuring talking kiosks, braille signage, and a central gazebo with musical instruments and sensory gardens. It is the most extensive trail of its kind in the nation.

• Watchung Reservation History Trail: A 6-mile marked trail that visits historic sites within the preserve, including the Deserted Village of Feltville.

• General Network: Connects to over 13 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to moderate hikes along the basalt ridges.

Things to See & Do

• Discovery Room: A kid-friendly space on the lower level with hands-on activities and close-up views of small live animals.
• The Atrium: Marvel at the 34-foot model tree that spans the building's levels, hiding taxidermy wildlife in its branches.
• Lenape Exhibit: A life-sized wigwam and artifacts showcasing the history of the Native Americans who originally inhabited the Watchungs.
• Bird Watching: The "Backyard Habitat" exhibit features a viewing area for bird feeders and a stream that attracts local wildlife.

Special / Seasonal Events

• Wild Earth Fest: An annual Earth Day-style celebration with games, crafts, and live animal demonstrations.
• Astronomy Day: A spring event often featuring solar viewing and special planetarium shows.
• Rock & Mineral Show: A popular annual event for geology buffs held in November.

Picnics / Lunches / Eating

• Picnic Area: There are picnic tables located just outside the center and near the loop playground.
• Food Rules: Food is generally not allowed inside the exhibit areas, so plan to eat outdoors or at the designated picnic groves.

Parking

On-Site Lot: Ample free parking is available in the large lot directly adjacent to the center (often referred to as the Loop area).