Lakes, rivers, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. This 5000 acre parkland offers stunning sights including Perkins Point, views from the pedestrian walkway of the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the Appalachian Trail.

Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower
Hike, bike, or drive up Perkins Drive to Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit of Bear Mountain State Park. Experience breathtaking views as you make your way to the top to Perkins Point. Upon reaching Perkins Point you will be rewarded by one of the most beautiful views imaginable. The steep drive leading to Perkins Memorial Tower is 1,305 feet above the Hudson River. With its 360-degree view you can see the Hudson River, the Bear Mountain Bridge, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Storm King, and Fort Montgomery. The observation floor of the tower offers displays describing the distant views, including the mountain ranges of the: Taconics, Ramapo, Shawangunk, and Catskill Mountains.

The Appalachian Trail
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge.

The Historic Appalachian Trail
In 1921, the idea for the Appalachian Trail originated with a volunteer forester Benton MacKaye. Benton conceived the Trail as a refuge from modern stresses, stretching along the spine of the Appalachian mountains, where hikers could re-connect with the natural world.

On October 7, 1923 the first section of the Appalachian Trail was finished at Bear Mountain. This part of the trail took hikers south to the Delaware Water Gap and served as a model for the many trails that followed. Trails were later joined to comprise the now famous Appalachian Trail. Today, the Appalachian trail spans 2,167 miles, and is the first National Scenic trail in the United States.

Bring the children and let them experience the wonders of nature and the adventure of Bear Mountain Park. The kids will love the many activities at Bear Mountain Park; including the beach, biking, fishing, nature trails, recreation programs, zoo, and Merry-Go-Round Pavilion. Winter activities include: snowmobiling, snowshoeing, an outdoor rink (from late October through mid-March), and more.

The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings.

Bear Mountain is most easily accessed by car. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers.