Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Bear Mountain Summit and Southern Approach

Bear Mountain State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Appalachian Trail: White blaze
1777 Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 1:45
Estimated Distance: 2.5 Miles

Pros: Great views, scenic area
Cons: None
Hike Type: 2 Car Point to Point
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:

Car 1:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8MwUByJk5JdS7PyQ6

Car 2:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3T2dd33VZx2aRJVk9

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

There are three approaches up Bear Mountain: The eastern approach on the Appalachian Trail, the northern approach on the Major Welch Trail, and the southern approach on the Appalachian Trail. The southern approach is the least popular but also the quietest on a summer weekend.

We parked at the top of the mountain on Perkins Drive at the tower, and climbed the tower for some views (although the windows are smudged.) We then came down the town and took the north on the handicap-friendly trail (now called the "all persons trail".) At the north-facing view of Bear Mountain, we looped around on the trail and continued on the Appalachian Trail to the south facing view over the large rock face. 

We then continued on the trail descending down to the old road path, and then crossing Perkins Drive, to the final view on the southern approach, and then took the 1777 Trail after crossing Seven Lakes Drive to our second car.

Map of the Route

View from the Bear Mountain Tower


Bear Mountain Tower

"All Persons Trail"

Summit Rock of Bear Mountain

Forest Fire Area Atop Bear Mountain



Northern-Facing View with the Hudson River & Ft. Montgomery





South Facing View of Bear Mountain











Lower View on the Southern Flank of Bear Mountain


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