Bear Mountain has been a hiking destination since before there was an Appalachian Trail—in fact, the first section of the AT ever built runs across its slopes. Just one hour north of New York City, this 1,284-foot peak offers genuine mountain hiking, Hudson River panoramas, and an escape from urban life that's remarkably accessible.
The mountain sits in Bear Mountain State Park, with trails ranging from easy paved paths to challenging rocky climbs. The Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit provides 360-degree views that stretch from the NYC skyline to the Catskills on clear days.
Trail Options
Major Welch Trail Loop
- Distance: 4.0 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The most challenging and rewarding route, this loop includes exposed rock scrambles and outstanding views. The ascent via Major Welch is steep with significant rock climbing (hands required in places); the descent via Appalachian Trail is more moderate.
Appalachian Trail
- Distance: 4.8 miles round trip (to summit)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
The AT route to Bear Mountain's summit is longer but less technical than Major Welch. It passes through forest with occasional viewpoints before emerging at the tower.
Via Perkins Memorial Drive
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty: Easy
A paved road reaches the summit, allowing shorter hikes from various points. This makes the summit accessible to those who can't manage the full climb.
The Summit
Bear Mountain's summit features Perkins Memorial Tower, a stone observation tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The views include:
- South: The Hudson River winding toward New York City
- West: Harriman State Park's rolling hills
- North: The Hudson Highlands and distant Catskills
- East: More Hudson Valley vistas
The summit area also includes picnic facilities and restrooms. It can be crowded on nice weekends, but the views justify the company.
Appalachian Trail History
Bear Mountain holds special significance in hiking history:
- 1923: The first section of the Appalachian Trail was completed here
- Current AT: The trail still crosses the mountain
- Trailside Museums: At the base, the Bear Mountain Trailside Museum has been educating visitors since 1927
Walking the AT section across Bear Mountain connects you to generations of hikers who've passed this way.
Planning Your Visit
When to Hike
- Year-round: Accessible in all seasons
- Fall: Spectacular foliage
- Winter: Possible with traction; tower may be closed
- Summer: Hot; start early
Crowds
Bear Mountain is extremely popular—it sees over 500,000 visitors annually. For relative solitude:
- Visit weekday mornings
- Choose Major Welch (more challenging = fewer people)
- Avoid holiday weekends
Practical Information
Getting There
Bear Mountain State Park is located off Route 9W, about 50 miles north of NYC. Accessible by:
- Car: Palisades Interstate Parkway or Route 9W
- Train: Metro-North to Peekskill + taxi/bus
- Bus: Coach USA from Port Authority
Fees
$10 vehicle entrance fee on weekends/holidays (free on weekdays in winter).
Facilities
The park offers:
- Restrooms at summit and base
- Trailside Museum and Zoo
- Picnic areas
- Swimming pool (seasonal)
- Inn with restaurant
Quick Reference
| Trail | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Welch Loop | 4.0 mi | 1,100 ft | Strenuous |
| Via AT | 4.8 mi | 1,000 ft | Moderate |
Bear Mountain offers something rare: genuine mountain hiking within an hour of America's largest city. The Hudson River views, Appalachian Trail heritage, and accessible challenge make it a perfect introduction to hiking for city dwellers—or a satisfying quick escape for anyone seeking mountain air without a major expedition.
