Bear Mountain State Park: A Hudson Highlands Escape

Bear Mountain State Park, a 5,000-acre haven in the Hudson Highlands, has been a cherished retreat since its opening in 1913. The park's creation stemmed from conservation efforts led by Mary Averell Harriman, who donated land and funds to prevent development and preserve the area's natural beauty. Today, Bear Mountain State Park offers a diverse range of activities. Visitors can explore over 50 trails spanning 200 miles, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. The park also features the Trailside Museums and Zoo, where guests can observe native animals and learn about the region's natural and cultural history. The Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain provides panoramic views stretching across four states and the Manhattan skyline. Other attractions include Hessian Lake, where visitors can rent paddle boats and rowboats, an outdoor ice-skating rink (seasonal), a merry-go-round, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. Bear Mountain's history is deeply intertwined with the region. During the Revolutionary War, colonial troops moved west of Bear Mountain during Anthony Wayne's attack on the British fort at Stony Point. The park also holds the distinction of being the location of the first section of the Appalachian Trail, which opened in 1923. The Bear Mountain Inn, a rustic-style historic building, offers overnight accommodations, dining, and meeting facilities.