The Hills, NJ
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Healthcare Institutions
The Hills is a modern planned community in Somerset County, NJ, offering scenic views of the Second Watchung Mountain. This family-friendly area features parks, golf, and community events.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The Hills is a census-designated place (CDP) and a planned community located within Bedminster and Bernards townships in Somerset County, New Jersey, United States . It does not have its own municipal government. The area falls under the jurisdiction of its two parent townships, with Bernards Township known for its excellent public schools and low crime rate, making it a desirable place for families .
Date of Foundation and Age
As a newly defined community, The Hills was first listed as a CDP in the 2020 United States Census, reflecting its recent development and recognition as a distinct populated place . The residential communities that make up The Hills were primarily developed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
The Hills is situated in northern Somerset County at coordinates 40°39′17″N 74°37′15″W . The community has a unique topography, with one section of development atop the western end of Second Watchung Mountain and another at its western base . The elevation of the CDP is approximately 160 meters (540 feet) above sea level . It is bordered by the borough of Far Hills to the north, Liberty Corner to the east, and Pluckemin to the south .
City Type and Economic Specialization
The Hills is primarily a residential and planned community, functioning as a suburban hub for professionals and families. Its economy and character are tied to its role as a bedroom community, offering a high quality of life with access to local amenities like the The Hills Country Club and The Hills Village Center .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 Census, the population of The Hills is 11,410 residents . With a total area of 2.84 square miles, the population density is approximately 4,024.7 people per square mile, classifying it as a moderately sized, planned suburban community .
City's "Calling Card" (Brief)
The Hills offers a picturesque blend of suburban comfort and natural beauty, nestled against the slopes of Second Watchung Mountain. Residents and visitors enjoy its village center, prestigious country club, and access to tranquil hiking trails and wildlife sanctuaries, all within a well-regarded New Jersey township .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
The Hills is uniquely situated on and around the western end of the Second Watchung Mountain . The Watchungs are a trio of long, low basaltic mountain ridges that offer scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities in central New Jersey. The Highlands and Wooded Valley trails in The Hills provide access to the mountain's lush forests and rolling hills .
National and Nature Parks
Nearby, the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary offers a chance to explore diverse natural habitats . Operated by the New Jersey Audubon Society, this sanctuary features guided nature walks, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs focused on conservation, providing a serene escape into nature just minutes from the community .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
The Hills experiences a humid continental climate, characteristic of northern New Jersey. This climate is marked by warm to hot, humid summers and cold winters with significant seasonal temperature variations .
Average Temperatures by Season
Summers in The Hills are warm, with average temperatures reaching around 29°C (85°F). Winters are cold, with average temperatures dropping to about -6°C (20°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
The area receives an average of 45 inches of rainfall annually. Winter months bring measurable snowfall, contributing to the region's distinct four-season experience. Humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, typically rising during the summer months .
Best Time to Visit
The most pleasant time to visit The Hills for outdoor activities, such as hiking the trails or exploring the village center, is during the late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these months, temperatures are moderate, and the landscape is particularly vibrant. Summer is ideal for enjoying the country club and community events, while winter offers a quiet, scenic beauty.
Landmarks
The Hills Village Center
The heart of the community is The Hills Village Center, a charming gathering place with quaint shops, lovely cafes, and historic buildings . It offers a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll, experiencing the small-town atmosphere, and interacting with locals to get a taste of the community spirit .
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary
A key natural landmark is the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, which serves as a haven for local wildlife and a place for environmental education . Visitors can discover diverse wildlife and beautiful natural habitats through guided nature walks, birdwatching, and learning about regional conservation efforts .
Second Watchung Mountain Trails
The natural landscape of the Second Watchung Mountain itself is a primary landmark. The Hills Highlands and Hills Wooded Valley trails offer scenic hikes through lush forests, across rolling hills, and amidst picturesque landscapes, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and observe local wildlife .
Transport
Major Highways
Interstate 287 forms the northern and western boundary of The Hills CDP, providing a major artery for regional travel . Direct access is available from Exit 22, which connects to U.S. Routes 202 and 206 . Routes 202/206 lead north into the center of Bedminster and south through Pluckemin to Somerville, the county seat .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
The Hills Burger
While The Hills is a small community, it is home to a celebrated gastropub, The Hills, located in nearby Millburn . The signature dish here is The Hills Burger. This is not a simple patty; it's a blend of brisket, short rib, and chuck, ground to create a uniquely juicy and rich burger. It's topped with crispy onions, bacon, and a "runny blend" of cheddar, American, and cream cheeses cooked down with beer, all served on a bun . This burger is a prime example of elevated American tavern food and a local favorite for those seeking a high-quality, memorable meal.
The Hill's Seasonal American Fare
Just a short drive away in Closter, another acclaimed restaurant, The Hill, offers a sophisticated take on modern American cuisine . The menu is chef-driven and changes frequently, but signature dishes often include expertly prepared seafood like Roast Duck Breast with a mandarin orange gastrique, Halibut with a cherry-tomato vinaigrette, and a rich Short Rib Mac N' Cheese . The restaurant is known for its composed, intentional dishes that use fresh, high-quality ingredients, reflecting the Michelin-starred background of its chef-owner, Ben Pollinger .
Unique Ingredient: House-Made Pasta and Bread
A hallmark of the culinary scene in the restaurants near The Hills is the emphasis on house-made components. At The Hill in Closter, the pasta, such as the homemade squid ink pasta served with a Fra Diavllo sauce, is made in-house . The restaurant also serves complimentary focaccia that is so popular, guests often ask for seconds . Similarly, at The Hills in Millburn, the chef bakes his own graham crackers from scratch for the s'mores dessert, scented with cinnamon and brown sugar, demonstrating a commitment to artisanal preparation .
The Tavern Burger
Another notable burger from The Hills in Millburn is simply called The Tavern Burger on some menus. Made from the same high-quality blend of chuck, short rib, and brisket, it stands as a testament to the skill of the kitchen. Reviewers have consistently praised it as a "great" burger, where the juicy richness of the meat is the star, complemented but not overwhelmed by its toppings .
Dessert: S'mores
A standout dessert at The Hills in Millburn is their take on the classic campfire treat, S'mores. What sets it apart is the attention to detail: instead of using store-bought ingredients, the pastry chef bakes the graham crackers in-house, scenting them with cinnamon and brown sugar. This simple act transforms a nostalgic treat into a refined and memorable dessert .
Notable Restaurants
The immediate area around The Hills is known for its high-quality, chef-driven restaurants that often attract patrons from New York City.
- The Hill (Closter): Located at 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ, this restaurant is helmed by Chef Ben Pollinger, a former Michelin-starred chef from Manhattan's Oceana . The restaurant is set in a beautiful, contemporary rustic farmhouse with a grand dining room, a stone fireplace, and an enclosed patio . The menu features inventive American dishes with a focus on seafood, steaks, and handmade pasta . It's known for its attentive service and has become a destination for special occasions .
- The Hills (Millburn): Located at 40 Main Street, Millburn, NJ, this gastropub from the Park Restaurant Group offers a more casual but equally sophisticated experience . With a warm interior of tufted leather banquettes and subway tiles, it's a popular spot for couples, groups, and families. Besides its famous burger, the menu includes a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, and main courses like pan-seared Scottish salmon, all executed with care and technique .
Healthcare Institutions
Local Healthcare Access
The Hills, NJ, being a small community, ensures its residents have access to quality healthcare services close to home. The area is served by several local hospitals and medical facilities . In addition to these, numerous private practices offer specialty services such as cardiology and neurology. The town is also well-equipped with several pharmacies, urgent care centers, and home health providers, offering comprehensive healthcare services to the community .