Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
400.00 ft (121.92 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.10 mi (4.99 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Black River has been described as the jewel of New Jersey. This hike takes you along a scenic stretch of the river, linking together a few historic points of interest. The hike is an out-and-back, starting at Cooper Gristmill in Chester and ending at the ruins of Kay’s Cottage before returning.

The trail begins at the restored Cooper Gristmill. The site was first established by Isaiah Younglove around 1760 as a location for a sawmill and gristmill. The mills changed ownership several times until being purchased by Nathan Cooper in 1825. He replaced both mills with a larger gristmill having twice the capacity of the original. The mill remained in operation until 1914 before the building was purchased by the Morris County Park Commission in 1963, which restored the mill to operating condition and converted it into a museum.

The trail follows Patriot’s Path, which is marked with distinctive metal blazes. It meanders through wet, muddy areas and groves of tulip poplars before passing a lily pad covered pond. Continue on Patriot’s Path until meeting the green trail. Turn left onto the green trail to stay close to the river. Continue to follow the green trail until it meets the orange; turn right and follow the orange trail downhill and across the river. The trail turns left and heads uphill, still following the Black River downstream. After cresting the hill, there will be a set of stone stairs to your left that lead downward to Kay’s Cottage.

The ruins of Kay’s Cottage are all that remains of a summer house built by Elizabeth and Alfred Kay who donated a large portion of the surrounding land to the MCPC. The Kays selected this location to dam the river and create a swimming area. The house originally held changing rooms, showers, a fireplace, and a terrace. The only portions still standing are the dam and its waterfall, stone and concrete foundations, and a few walls. After you’ve finished your exploration of the cottage ruins, retrace your steps back to Cooper Gristmill.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic river views Historic ruins. Pond with waterfowl. Scenic ravine.

Cons

Muddy after rain or snow melt. Overgrown areas during spring and summer.

Trailhead Elevation

680.00 ft (207.26 m)

Highest point

730.00 ft (222.50 m)

Features

Family friendly
Near lake or river
Guided tours
Vault toilet
Historically significant
Old-growth forest
Waterfalls
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Fishing

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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