7/4/2023 0 Comments Bear mountain state park![]() As you make your way down the mountain, you’ll see the Perkins Memorial Tower, which sits at the summit of Bear Mountain. Bear with it (pun intended) because the views from the top are worth it. This section of the trail is steep-city, with crumbly, loose rocks. The real treat and crux of the hike is the 1.5-mile ascent up Bear Mountain. Make sure you snap a few photos of the wildflowers peeking from dense laurel, it’s gorgeous when they’re in bloom. The climb is gradual and mildly challenging. They look like something out of a fairytale but will get your lungs going. After you pass the scenic Hessian Lake, you’ll climb the first portion of stone steps. Your first feat will be following the well-marked Major Welch Trail, taking you on a decently paved path. The loop trail combines the Major Welch Trail and the legendary Appalachian Trail with other short, scenic hikes that crisscross the park. The trailhead and final destination of the hike is the Bear Mountain Inn. This 4.2 mile-long trail is one of the best in the region, possibly one of the best short hikes I’ve ever experienced. Don’t let its popularity deter you from venturing out. Spoiler alert, it lives up to the hype, and many fellow hikers can attest to that. The Bear Mountain Loop is easily the main attraction and the biggest draw to the place. While there is a shortcut to the top, you’ll be glad you walked this trail’s stone steps - all one thousand of them. The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is the classic choice, with some steep, rocky sections to get your heart rate up. Hiking options in Bear Mountain State Park range from challenging, steep climbs to peaceful walking paths. My favorite part of hiking Bear Mountain are the wide-sweeping views of the Hudson River Hiking in Bear Mountain State Park If you’re looking for a Bear Mountain hiking trail map, the state park website has you covered. If you’re not up for a summit day, take a stroll along the lower elevations or piece together a connected series of loops depending on how much time you have. ![]() Your hiking tours will usually take you through wooded terrain, complete with tough, but rewarding ascents, and stunning 360-degree views waiting for you at the top. I love how the wooded terrain is the perfect mix of challenging and relaxing How many trails does Bear Mountain have?īear Mountain boasts over 50 trails across 200 miles, spanning all corners of the park, spread out over 5,000 acres of land. It has grown and expanded in the 100+ years since its creation to become a hub of recreation and a getaway to the heart of nature within close range of New York City, which is why it made my list of one of the best hiking destinations in USA. Bear Mountain State Park was established in 1910, thanks to the combined efforts of wealthy local businessmen. As development increased throughout the Hudson Valley at the turn of the century, efforts were made to preserve the rugged natural beauty of the area. Nestled in the Hudson Valley on Palisades Parkway, Bear Mountain State Park sits on the west bank of the Hudson River and stretches into the surrounding mountains and hills. ![]() The parking lot at the top of Bear Mountain is a bit of a buzzkill for people who hiked up A bit of local history surrounding Bear Mountain Your gateway to adventure, the Bear Mountain Bridge across the Hudson River leads to the state park, where I hiked as part of my AT thru-hike Add a pool, a carousel, and even a zoo, and you’ve got the spot for a perfect weekend adventure. The 1,000 stone steps are admittedly exhausting to climb, but one of the most amazing examples of trail building I’ve seen in my time on the trails. There is a truly amazing section of trail heading up the mountain. The grade was challenging but not unreasonable, the tread smooth, and the trails around this area are incredibly well-maintained. I hiked through the area during my Appalachian Trail thru-hike and was highly impressed with the state of the trail and the park itself. Over 5000 acres of tree-covered hiking trails with hidden lookouts and surprising amenities along the way, breathtaking 360-degree views looking out over the Hudson Valley - I could go on and on about why Bear Mountain State Park is the best go-to choice for taking a break from the chaos of city life.
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