Welcome to Hawk Rise Sanctuary, a 95-acre ecological preserve and wetland complex, which was carved out of a former landfill in Linden, New Jersey.
This park is open from dawn to dusk and includes a “double-legged" lollipop trail of about 1.5 miles that alternates between boardwalk and gravel paths. In addition to panoramic views of the Rahway River, trails are equipped with interpretive signage to provide visitors with habitat descriptions and information regarding over 120 species of birds and other wildlife that have been seen in the area.
A Sense of Place
The Rahway River meanders for 24 miles through Essex, Middlesex and Union Counties and eventually drains into the Arthur Kill. The upper portion of river corridor consists of freshwater wetlands, woodlands and floodplains while the lower Rahway River is tidal. Effects of these twice-daily water movements can be seen all the way up to the City of Rahway. In total the Rahway River and its tributaries drain over 40 square miles of land.
Reading the Map and Making Connections
Underlying rocks and geologic formations determine a river’s course since water follows the path of least resistance. In this case the Watchung Mountains to the northwest help determine where the river flows.
Think of the river system like a tree. The Rahway River is the trunk and all its tributaries are the branches. The East Branch and the West Branch begin in Essex County. These meet at Hobart Gap near Interstate 78 and form the main trunk of the Rahway River. North of Hawk Rise Sanctuary, Robinson’s and South Branches join the main stem of the river.
Green Spaces Ease Flooding
The Rahway River and its tributaries flow through some of the oldest urbanized areas of the State of New Jersey. Over years humans have altered its course, by channeling water through cement conduits. Roads, parking lots, houses and buildings increase the amount of storm water runoff. Creating parks and green areas along river edges helps slow runoff and ease flooding.
Keeping the River Clean
Even if you don’t live right on the water, the decisions you make every day affect the amount and quality of water in the river. The benefits of a clean river include: healthier populations of animals and plants; more recreational opportunities for boating and fishing; and increased aesthetics.