Home ⎟ Hikes & Wanderings ⎟ New York ⎟ Hudson Valley ⎟ Bear Mountain

Distance: 6.5 mile loop

Time: 3.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Bear Mountain’s well-maintained and beautiful trail circuit is quite awe-inspiring and satisfying.  It does get VERY busy on weekends, so go during the week to avoid the crowds. For the best views, drive up Perkins Memorial Drive and through the summit parking lot.  Start to descend the mountain on the other side of the parking area, and after about 100 feet veer LEFT following a sign marked “Scenic Drive.” After less than five minutes of descending, you’ll reach two beautiful overlooks, the first looking south and the second looking northeast toward the Bear Mountain Bridge.