Overlook Lodge and Stone Cottages at Bear Mountain

This is a direct, rugged, alternate route up Bear Mountain which is the north side of the extended loop trail. It is an in-out challenging scramble. Crampons are essential after snowfall. Fantastic views of the Hudson River Valley, with the great enclosed Perkins lookout tower on top. Trailhead on west side of Hessian Lake, parking at mountain lodges lot.

This trail unites with the well known Bear Mountain Loop via a lesser known route at the base of the Hudson River. This section of the Twin Forts trail begins at the Fort Montgomery parking lot (free) and crosses over the new, beautiful Popolopen foot bridge (blue marker). The trail proceeds under the Bear Mountain bridge, through the grounds of the nature center, to the main visitors center, and then to the massive Appalachian Trail staircase (white). This staircase ascends to the top of...

This is an absolutely beautiful trail in any season, but especially popular and stunning during the fall season. The leaves, the pathways, the bridge and stream are all so lovely and the view at the top is incredible magic in October! The trail begins at the Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. There is hiker parking about 1/4 mile north of the Historic Site parking, and users are reminded to please use hiker parking on weekends when the trail gets very busy. From the parking lot and at the...

This is a lovely paved trail with views of the lake and some small inclines. Accessibility: This trail is likely accessible with assistance for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers or visitors may need to avoid the steeper sections for safety. Accessible Parking: Number of designated accessible spaces: 5 at the trailhead; Number of van-accessible spaces with access aisles: 5; Parking lot surface: paved. Trail Details: Trail surface: paved asphalt, smooth; Average...

Start near the Bear Mountain Inn and locate the Appalachian Trail from the corner of the field near the playground. The trail winds through the forest past rocky outcroppings ending at a lookout near the Perkins Memorial Tower. The tower was built in 1934 and on a clear day New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania are all visible.