Schiff Nature Preserve
Directions
By its own admission Schiff Nature Preserve is tricky to find. The closest major highway is I-287, Exit 30B (if travelling south). For specific directions to the Nature Center and main trailhead use the Contact Information field on this site which links to the Preserve’s web page. GPS Coordinates: 40.747738, -74.627694
Park Overview
The largest private nature preserve in Morris County.
Trail Overview
The Preserve maintains eight blazed trails ranging from 0.5 mile to 2.18 miles, totaling just under 10 miles. Many of the blazed trails follow woods roads others follow footpaths. Some woods roads are not marked trails and should be hiked more cautiously. A connector trail leads to the Patriot’s Path. Bikers and equestrians are permitted on designated trails.
Use the Web Map link on this site for a trail map. Loop hikes are possible.
Click for a detailed description of a hike in the Preserve.
Park Description
According to its web page, Schiff's mission is to acquire and preserve open space, serve as a model of environmental and educational stewardship, and improve the ecological value of natural areas using best management practices. To that end it maintains a nature center for environmental education and research, sponsors nature walks, and provides a network of trails open to the public.
McVickers Brook Preserve, jointly owned and managed by Mendham Borough and the Schiff Natural Lands Trust, is adjacent to the property.
The parkland is home to hundreds of plant and animal species, some common to the area while others are quite rare.