Summerhill Park

For New Jersey residents seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, right within their own community, Summerhill Park in Madison offers an unparalleled experience. This expansive 26-acre passive park is a cherished woodland oasis, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls, invigorating jogs, and tranquil moments amidst the trees. Far from a bustling recreational hub, Summerhill Park invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world.

What makes Summerhill Park particularly unique for Madison locals is its blend of natural beauty with intriguing historical remnants. It’s a place where you can enjoy the simplicity of a woodland hike while also glimpsing echoes of Madison's rich past as "The Rose City." If you're a New Jerseyan looking for a quiet escape to walk your dog, enjoy a small hike, or simply find solace in a green space, Summerhill Park is a true local treasure. This article will guide you through its features, accessibility, and why it's such a suitable destination for residents in the New Jersey region.

Summerhill Park is conveniently located at 185 Ridgedale Ave, Madison, NJ 07940, USA. This address serves as a primary access point, though the park actually spans between Ridgedale and Central Avenues, with multiple access points from Dehart Place, Central Avenue, and Ridgedale Avenue. Its strategic placement within Madison makes it highly accessible for residents of the borough and surrounding areas in Morris County, New Jersey.

For visitors arriving by car, convenient parking is available at the Summerhill Park parking lot off Ridgedale Avenue (adjacent to Burnet Rd). This dedicated parking ensures easy entry into the park, allowing visitors to quickly transition from their vehicle to the tranquil trails. While direct public transportation might require a short walk depending on the specific bus stop, the park's integration into Madison's layout means it's generally within easy reach for locals, whether on foot, by bike, or by car. The ability to access the park from multiple points also enhances its connectivity to downtown Madison, other borough parks, and local schools, highlighting its role as a vital green corridor within the community.

Summerhill Park, as a passive park, focuses on preserving its natural environment while offering amenities that facilitate quiet outdoor recreation and appreciation of nature:

• Woodland Trails: Approximately 1.5 miles of hiking trails wind through the park's hilly woodland terrain, providing routes for jogging, walking, and small hikes. Future plans include the creation of additional trail segments.
• Dog-Friendly Paths: The park is a popular spot for dog owners to walk their canine companions, allowing them to enjoy the natural setting together (dog policies, such as leash requirements, should be observed as per borough regulations).
• Picnic Areas: While not extensively detailed, the park is known to have picnic areas, offering spots for visitors to enjoy outdoor meals amidst the natural surroundings.
• Dedicated Parking: A convenient parking lot off Ridgedale Avenue is provided for park visitors.
• Historic Features: The park contains remnants of old greenhouse ruins, a nod to Madison's past as "The Rose City," and is home to the Luke Miller House, the oldest house in Madison (visible from the driveway).
• Open Space Preservation: The park itself serves as a key component of Madison's Open Space and Recreation Plan, providing crucial natural resources and a preserved ecosystem.

As a passive park, visitors should anticipate a focus on natural elements rather than extensive recreational facilities like playgrounds or sports fields. The emphasis is on experiencing the undisturbed beauty of the woodland.

Summerhill Park is cherished for its natural beauty and unique historical and recreational features that make it a standout destination for locals:

• Extensive Woodland Trails: The park boasts approximately 1.5 miles of scenic trails that wind through hilly, wooded terrain. These paths are perfect for jogging, walking, or enjoying a peaceful small hike, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
• Historical Greenhouse Ruins: A captivating feature of the park are the visible remnants of old greenhouses. These ruins are a direct link to Madison's historical prominence in the commercial rose industry, giving the park a unique historical dimension.
• Luke Miller House: The park is also home to the Luke Miller House, Madison's oldest house, dating back to the Revolutionary War. While the house itself might not be directly accessible, its presence adds significant historical context to the park's landscape.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs in Summerhill Park, highlighting its welcoming atmosphere for canine companions and their owners.
• Passive Recreation Focus: Designed as a passive park, Summerhill offers a quiet and tranquil environment, ideal for those seeking solitude, nature observation, or a peaceful escape from daily life.
• Connectivity to Downtown Madison: The park’s multiple access points create vital walking connections to downtown Madison, allowing visitors to easily combine their park experience with a trip to local shops or restaurants.
• Biodiversity: As a preserved woodland and open space, the park supports a variety of flora and fauna, offering opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating local ecosystems.

These features combine to make Summerhill Park a unique and highly valued natural and historical asset for the Madison community.

As a public municipal park, Summerhill Park does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional retail sense. Its primary "offer" is free and open access to its beautiful natural environment and trails for all New Jersey residents. However, the Borough of Madison's Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and other local groups frequently utilize the park for community engagement and educational initiatives, which can be considered valuable "special offerings" to the public.

• National Trails Day® Celebrations: Summerhill Park is a prominent location for Madison's annual National Trails Day® event. For example, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, a special event titled “Summerhill Park and the Central Green – Imagine the Possibilities” is scheduled, featuring guided walks and highlighting the community's vision for enhanced park amenities and connectivity. This is a recurring opportunity for locals to explore the park with expert guidance.
• Community Walks and Hikes: Various local groups, such as scout packs, might organize family picnics or advancement ceremonies at the park, making it a regular gathering spot for community activities.
• Conservation and Educational Programs: Given its status as a preserved open space with historical elements, the park is a potential venue for environmental education programs or historical tours organized by the borough or local historical societies.

For the most current information on any events or programs taking place at Summerhill Park, New Jersey residents are highly encouraged to check the official Borough of Madison website (rosenet.org), particularly their "News Flash" or "Recreation" sections, and local community calendars.

For general inquiries about Summerhill Park, including its trails, rules, or any community events taking place within it, the best point of contact would be the Borough of Madison's municipal offices, particularly departments related to Parks & Open Space or Recreation.

Address: 185 Ridgedale Ave, Madison, NJ 07940, USA

General Borough of Madison Phone: (973) 593-3000

Madison Engineering Department (for Parks & Open Space inquiries): (973) 593-3060

For up-to-date information, it is always recommended to visit the official Borough of Madison website (rosenet.org) and navigate to their "Parks & Open Space" or "Recreation" sections, where specific details regarding park hours, rules, and upcoming events are typically posted.

For New Jersey locals, Summerhill Park in Madison is an ideal destination that perfectly balances natural beauty with historical intrigue and accessible recreation. Its 26 acres of serene woodland and well-maintained trails provide an immediate escape from the daily grind, offering ample opportunities for jogging, walking, or enjoying a peaceful hike right within the community. For dog owners, it's a popular and welcoming spot to exercise their pets amidst natural surroundings.

What truly sets Summerhill Park apart is its unique blend of environmental preservation and historical significance. The presence of ancient greenhouse ruins and the Luke Miller House offers a tangible connection to Madison's past, inviting visitors to reflect on the borough's rich heritage while enjoying its natural present. Multiple access points and convenient parking make it easy for residents to access, whether they're looking for a quick outing or a more extended exploration.

Moreover, the park serves as a hub for community events, such as National Trails Day celebrations, fostering a sense of local connection and shared appreciation for Madison's open spaces. Its commitment to passive recreation ensures a tranquil environment, making it suitable for those seeking solitude, nature photography, or simply a quiet moment in a beautiful setting. Summerhill Park is not just a park; it's a valuable local resource that enriches the quality of life for New Jersey residents in Madison, offering a perfect blend of exercise, history, and natural tranquility.

Summerhill Park

185 Ridgedale Ave, Madison, NJ 07940, USA