Black Brook

The Black Brook is a small stream that runs through the southern end of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. It flows into the Passaic River just a little bit upriver of the kayak launch site in Lord Stirling Park.

The Importance of Water Level

Much of the time, the Black Brook is not navigable. But when it rains hard for several days, one can paddle up to the bridge at White Bridge Road, then back down. If in doubt, check the nearby USGS stream gauge on the Passaic River that is at the top of the Millington Gorge (see: link). Ideally, the water level shown should more than six and a half feet. It is usually four and a half feet.

Lord Stirling Park to White Bridge Road and Return

The following images were taken on a trip when the Black Brook was in high flood and the water had spread into the nearby woods.