The Bear Mountain Inn and State Park

If you are in the vicinity of Bear Mountain, New York, you might want to take some time out for a visit. There are many things to do while you are there; beautiful natural sights to see and you can bring the whole family. You can plan a day trip, or if you have some time, spend a night or two.

I don't really remember my first visit to Bear Mountain. I was very little and my father took me there one fall for a hike. We hiked up the whole mountain. As a small child it seemed gargantuan. Today, I know it's only about an hour up the Appalachian Trail to the top.

In fact, my Dad and I used to make that trip every fall for much of my childhood. It was beautiful. We would pack a lunch and hike to the top. The views for the top are just gorgeous. You can see all the way to Manhattan on clear days, and have beautiful views of the Hudson River as well. When the leaves are turning, you can't beat it!

To this day, we return often to Bear Mountain and the Bear Mountain Inn for a night or two. It's a lovely tradition that has come to mean so much to both of us. Maybe you can start your own tradition at Bear Mountain!

Things to Do

There are so many things to do for your visit. If you are going for the day, you may want to pack a picnic lunch. You can get food at the Bear Mountain Inn if you prefer, but it's always nice to have a picnic.

The View from the Top

Going up to the top of the mountain is a great start. You can either hike it or drive it. If you drive up, there is ample parking at the top. You can have your picnic almost anywhere. Make sure you have some time to explore around a bit. You will find different views from different areas. They are quite lovely. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled, you may see some deer. If you have a pair of binoculars, bring them along.

You'll also want to take some time to climb to the top of the fire tower. It has more great views from the top. Along the climb up (it's only a few stories), you find much information about the building of the park and its history. There are some wonderful photos as well.

If you decide to hike up, it should take you about an hour on the Appalachian Trail. There are other trails as well, but they may be more difficult. You may see cadets from nearby West Point running up and down it for regular exercise.

Hessian Lake

There is a beautiful lake right next to the Bear Mountain Inn. There is a path that runs all the way around it and is a lovely walk. During the summertime, you may be able to rent boats and paddle around on the lake. There are picnic tables all around it, so this is another great place for lunch.

Other Activities

There's lots more to do while you are visiting Bear Mountain. You can walk through their zoo. They have a nice exhibit of animals which can not be returned to the wild. Along the walk, you will also learn about the local plants and trees. There are a few spots with fabulous views of the Hudson here too.

If you visit Bear Mountain during the summer time, there is a huge swimming pool. It's open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can call the park office for more information. (845) 786-2701.

If you visit Bear Mountain from November through March, be sure to bring your ice skates. There is an out door ice rink at the foot of the mountain. Again, call for more information. (845) 786-2701.

The Bear Mountain Inn

The Inn is a beautiful, rustic old building made from stone and wood. You can have a nice meal at the Cub Room or even Sunday brunch. There is an outdoor balcony with views of Hessian Lake. You can also have events catered here. A beautiful spot for a wedding!

The Rip Van Winkle Lounge

Just upstairs is a wonderful lounge for guests to relax in. It features one of the biggest fireplaces I've ever seen. The room has windows every where and lovely views. There is stone and wood architecture. It's very special.

Planning a Stay

If you decide you would like to stay over for a night or two, you have a few options. There are rooms upstairs in the main Inn. They are very convenient as you are right in the main Inn. You will want to know that the atmosphere is going to be rustic, nothing fancy here.

You can also stay in one of the Stone Lodges. Each lodge has about four guest rooms and a small lounge with a fireplace. If it is the right time of year, there will be wood waiting for you to build a roaring fire. These rooms are across the Lake, so you will have to return to the main Inn for Breakfast.

You also can stay in the Overlook Hotel at Bear Mountain. This building has more of a feel of a typical hotel, with several floors and guest rooms. It is located in the woods, near to the Stone Lodges.

The atmosphere is charming no matter where you decide to stay. Again, nothing fancy. Lovely stone buildings and a pretty woodsy setting. A nice spot for a quick get a way.

Build Our Own Tradition

I hope you enjoy your visit to Bear Mountain State Park and to the Bear Mountain Inn. Be sure to call for any information. You can get someone at the main Inn at (845) 786-2731, or visit the website at www.bearmountaininn.com. If you need Park information, please call (845) 786-2701, you can get some additional information at www.hudsonriver.com/bearmtn.htm. I hope you have as much fun at this special and beautiful place as I have.