Bear Mountain State Park

Rising above the western bank of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain State Park has drawn visitors since 1913 with its rugged terrain, sweeping river views, and surprising accessibility — just 50 miles north of New York City. Spread across 5,277 acres in Palisades County, the park packs a remarkable amount of variety into a single destination.

The summit of Bear Mountain itself tops out at 1,283 feet, reachable via the Major Welch Trail or the renovated summit trail featuring stone staircases and observation platforms. From the top, the Hudson Valley unfolds in every direction — a view that’s particularly stunning during fall foliage season, typically peaking in mid-to-late October.

Beyond hiking, the park offers a swimming pool complex, paddleboating on Hessian Lake, picnic areas with Hudson River vistas, and a stretch of the Appalachian Trail that passes directly through the grounds. The Trailside Museums and Zoo, one of the oldest in the country, houses native wildlife along a walkable path — a solid option for families with younger kids.

Winter brings cross-country skiing and an outdoor ice skating rink, making this a genuine four-season park. The Bear Mountain Inn, a historic stone-and-timber lodge, provides dining and lodging right on-site.

The best visiting window runs from late September through November for foliage, or May through June for comfortable hiking temperatures before summer crowds arrive. Weekdays are noticeably quieter than weekends year-round, especially given the park’s proximity to the metro area.

Explore Nearby

• Bear Lake Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Utah
• Stony Point Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Tarrytown Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Ogden River Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Utah
• Cliff Ridge Hang Gliding Area — Public Land