The visitor center at Bear Mountain State Park is open from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year, but specific hours for the visitor center itself are not provided. However, the park is open from 8 a.m. to dusk year-round.
The entrance fee at Bear Mountain State Park is $10 per vehicle. You can also opt for an Empire Pass for $80, which offers unlimited day-use entry to most New York State Parks and facilities.
From NYC: Drive via Palisades Interstate Parkway (Exit 19) or Route 9W North. By bus: Short Line from Port Authority. By train: Metro-North to Peekskill, then taxi or rideshare (10 miles).
At Bear Mountain State Park, there are nearly 50 parking areas, including those for cars, but no specific accommodations for RVs or motorcycles. Parking costs $10 per vehicle year-round, with no overnight parking permitted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Located in New York’s Hudson Highlands, this 5,000-acre park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic vistas, Bear Mountain State Park offers unforgettable adventures. Hike to the summit for views of the Hudson River, explore lush forests, or relax lakeside. It’s ideal for hikers, wildlife watchers, and anyone seeking a natural escape.
- Area (mi²)
- 8.1
- Annual visitors
- 2 400 000
- Established year
- 1913
Top 3 Facts about Bear Mountain State Park
The Perkins Memorial Tower, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1932 and 1934, stands 12 meters tall and offers views of four states and the Manhattan skyline 64 kilometers to the south.
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, giving hikers access to breathtaking landscapes.
The Bear Mountain Bridge was the first vehicular bridge over the Hudson south of Albany, offering iconic river views.
Family programs
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check website for hours, fees, trail conditions, and events before visiting.
Pack Appropriately
Wear sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate layers.
Respect Wildlife
View wildlife from a safe distance, don’t feed animals, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Stay Informed
Check the park’s official site for current alerts, hours, and seasonal events.
Seasons
Mild (50–60°F), blooming wildflowers, active wildlife, and great hiking on the Appalachian Trail.
Warm (70s–80s°F), ideal for swimming, hiking, and fishing. Lush greenery and long daylight hours.
Cool and crisp (60s°F), vibrant fall foliage, scenic drives, photography, and festivals like Oktoberfest.
Snowy, peaceful, and quiet. Ideal for ice skating, snowshoeing, and winter hikes. Some facilities may have limited hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bear Mountain State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest major cities are Newark, New Jersey, and Jersey City, New Jersey, both approximately 39 miles away. New York City is also about 40 miles away.
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For kids, the best trail is the paved or gravel path around Hessian Lake, which is easy, level, and tick-free. You can also walk through the Trailside Zoo or drive to the top via Perkins Memorial Drive for a wheelchair-accessible nature trail and great views. These options are perfect for introducing little ones to hiking.
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Dogs are not allowed at all in this area. It is one of the sections of the Appalachian Trail where dogs are prohibited to protect the wildlife and preserve the natural environment. This rule applies year-round.
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Yes, there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. This fee applies year-round and is in addition to any other amenities such as the pool or zoo. There are no specific mentions of fees varying by the size or type of vehicle like campers, motorhomes, or trailers.
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Hike the Bear Mountain Loop, a 4.2-mile trail that combines the Major Welch Trail and the Appalachian Trail, offering steep climbs and stunning views from the top, including the Perkins Memorial Tower. Visit the Trailside Museums and Zoo, and explore the Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge on Iona Island. Enjoy the Bear Mountain Carousel or take in the scenic views of the Hudson River Valley during a leisurely walk or picnic.
