The other day, a friend invited me to join her on a walk in Cedar Grove Park, a beautiful expanse that I’d passed once while driving but hadn’t yet made time to visit. 

We pulled into the ample parking lot, made a quick stop in the immaculate restroom, wandered over to the pristine bocce ball courts and playground, and all I could think was: Why isn’t anyone here?

We were not completely alone. There were a few runners and a mom with her toddler on the swings. But if we’d been at Brookdale Park on this sunny morning, there would have been people everywhere. True, it was a weekday and the park is relatively new – only just completed in 2016 – but I started wondering how long it takes a public space like this one, slightly tucked away as it is, to become a regular destination. I lived across from Montclair’s Edgemont Park when its tired, old original playground was renovated into the kid magnet it has become. I remember it taking a little while for people to discover it and make it part of their lives.

How long? I don’t recall. But, like Edgemont, there are plenty of reasons to check Essex County's newest park out sooner, rather than later.

The park sits on either side of Fairview Avenue, which intersects Bloomfield Ave in Verona. On the east side: bocce ball courts, all-access playground, and club house – all brand new and all designed with plenty of shaded areas to sit. Beyond the parking lot (also on the east side) there’s a paved walking path that loops down and around a lovely landscaped hill. 

On the west side of Fairview Avenue is another walking path that meanders over foot bridges and past little “workout stations.” There’s even a place to enter the woods – we hiked for about 10 minutes on the wide dirt trail up to the top of the hill before turning back. We probably could have gone on for an hour, but we didn’t have the time. 

Although Cedar Grove Park is not a park that many can walk to, it's a wonderful environment to walk in. I also noticed a sign for a Farmer’s Market - Tuesdays from 10am - 3pm.! If you’re a runner, cyclist, or just like being outdoors, I encourage you to stop by. I predict that, like me, your first visit to Cedar Grove Park will certainly not be your last. 

 

Cedar Grove Park

199 Fairview Avenue

Cedar Grove, NJ