In September 2011, Essex County unveiled a $3.2 million aerial obstacle attraction at the South Mountain Reservation known as the Treetop Adventure Course. In September 2012, Mother Nature had other plans for the project: Hurricane Sandy swept through the course and knocked down many of the large trees that had been supporting the course elements. Two weeks ago, the County presented a rebuilt course that includes more climbing obstacles and a zip line for adults, and a junior course for children.
The new course, which is close to the parking garage by Codey Arena, is built around telephone poles and cost the county $1,719,131. The adult section of the course has 30 obstacles. Adults must be at least 54 inches tall and weigh no more than 250 pounds. The junior section of the course has 15 obstacles. It is open to children who are at least 6 years old and weigh no more than 250 pounds. Adventurers who just want to ride the zip line must weigh at least 60 pounds, be at least 6 years old and weigh no more than 250 pounds. Admission for the course is as follows: $15 for juniors, $25 for the adult course, $10 for adults who just want to ride the zip line and $30 for adults who want to do the course and the zip line.
In the fall, the course is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For information and to make a reservation, please call 973-731-5800, Ext. 221.
