🏞️ Where to Hike: Bear Mountain Loop Trail
Want a hike that packs big views, steep climbs, and a little bit of grit into under 4 miles? The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is one of the Hudson Valley’s most iconic adventures — tough enough to test you, but rewarding with some of the best views around.
Trail Snapshot:
- 📍 Location: Bear Mountain State Park, Tomkins Cove, NY
- 🥾 Length: 3.7 miles (loop)
- ⛰ Elevation Gain: 1,145 ft
- ⏱ Estimated Time: ~2–3 hrs
- ⚡ Difficulty: Hard
- ⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 (11k+ reviews)
Parking & Trailhead:
- 🗺 Address: Bear Mountain State Park, 3000 Seven Lakes Dr, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
- 📍 Coordinates: 41.31101° N, 73.99094° W
- 💵 Entrance Fee: A park fee is required. Info: parks.ny.gov/parks/bearmountain
Why go:
This loop takes you around Hessian Lake and up the Major Welch Trail, a rocky scramble that climbs to Perkins Memorial Tower for sweeping Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge views. On the descent, follow the Appalachian Trail, where hundreds of stone steps lead you back down through forest and overlooks.
Good to know:
- 🥾 Steep climbs, scrambles, and stairs — wear good shoes.
- 🕐 Go early; it gets crowded on weekends.
- 💧 Bring plenty of water.
- 📶 Download the map — trails intersect often.
Bottom line: If you only do one Hudson Valley hike, make it this one.
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🏞️ Where to Hike: Bear Mountain Loop Trail
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