Monday, September 22, 2025

Greenwood Gardens & South Mountain Fairy Trail

      Last Saturday, I went back up to North Jersey, where nature invites you to breathe in the fresh air, admire beautiful flowers, and... fairies???  My first stop was New Jersey's version of Longwood Gardens—smaller in size, but a true hidden gem. The location is called Greenwood Gardens, situated at 274 Old Short Hills Road in Short Hills, New Jersey, greenwoodgardens.org. Greenwood is a 28-acre non-profit public historical garden and former private estate, nestled within 2,110 acres of preserved parkland. It is an enchanting retreat featuring terraced gardens, woodland meadows, grottoes, fountains, artistic touches, and charming craft follies. Winding paths from the early 20th century add to the charm and magnificence of the gardens. Before visiting Greenwood Gardens, check out the etiquette rules online. To plan your visit, you can get time tickets online. Refreshments are available at the gift shop and visitor center. Wear comfortable shoes, and if you have any questions about the garden's history, park assistants will be available to help. The premises also feature farm animals, including wild turkeys, roosters, and geese that freely roam the gardens. Visitors are advised not to feed the animals.




















         From strolling through nature's beauty to stepping into a magical realm with fairies, my next adventure led me to a wooded path known as the South Mountain Fairy Trail, located at 197 Glen Ave. in Millburn, NJ, somocon.org. As you stroll along the roped path, you'll come across charming, handcrafted miniature fairy houses created by volunteer program coordinators. If you're interested in making one yourself, you can find details on getting your handcrafted fairy house approved by the coordinators via email on their website. Once approved, you can place it along an empty assigned spot on the trail, but please be cautious of poison ivy and nesting bees (especially if you're allergic).  Also, I recommend you 1. Leave no trace by avoiding adding homes, non-constructed lean-tos, or other structures to the trail. 2. Respect fragile creations by refraining from touching or removing any parts of the homes, allowing others to enjoy them. 3. Stay on the designated path to view the visible fairy homes.       


        












        Well, that's my excellent adventure for now. Where I go next, only time will tell. So, make sure to like, share, and spread the word to friends and family.  Happy travels and be safe. 


JerzyP 😁🚗🌸🌷


          

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