Bear Mountain Loop Trail—Where the City Ends and the Mountains Begin

Distance: 4.2 miles (≈ 6.7 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Trailhead: Bear Mountain Inn / Hessian Lake
Highlights: Major Welch Trail ascent, Perkins Memorial Tower, Appalachian Trail descent, Hudson River views
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Parking: Bear Mountain State Park Main Lot ($10, card accepted)
Map: AllTrails – Bear Mountain Loop Trail

The First Step — Escaping the Noise

There’s a moment, just after you leave the parking lot and walk around Hessian Lake,
when you start hearing only your own footsteps and the wind moving through the trees.
The air feels sharper, cleaner. The smell of pine and earth replaces the exhaust fumes of Manhattan.
This is where New York disappears — and nature begins.

The Bear Mountain Loop Trail, combining the Major Welch Trail on the way up and the Appalachian Trail on the way down,
is one of the most famous and beloved hikes near New York City.
It’s challenging, yes, but also deeply rewarding — both for your body and your spirit.

Trail Overview

Walk counterclockwise around Hessian Lake from the Bear Mountain Inn.
Soon you’ll see the red circle blaze marking the start of the Major Welch Trail.
The path begins gently, but don’t be fooled — the challenge comes quickly.

After about 20–30 minutes, the trail turns into a rocky scramble —
huge boulders that require both hands and a good sense of balance.
You’ll climb higher, sometimes on open granite slabs where the sun hits your back and
the Hudson River starts to peek through the trees below.

🧡 Tip: Hiking shoes with good grip are essential. Bring water and snacks — there’s no refill point on the way up.

1. Start — Hessian Lake & Major Welch Trailhead

After about 1.5–2 hours, you’ll reach the Bear Mountain summit (Perkins Memorial Tower).
On a clear day, you can see the Hudson River, Bear Mountain Bridge, and even the skyline of Manhattan far away.
The 360° view is breathtaking — golden light over the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley,
the wind carrying the scent of pine and mountain air.

There are benches and picnic spots near the tower,
so this is the perfect place to rest, eat lunch, and take photos.
If the tower is open, climb to the top — it’s free, and the panorama is spectacular.

📸 Photo Spot: The rocky ledge to the east of Perkins Tower gives a perfect shot with the Hudson River winding below.
Sunrise lovers — come early. It’s pure magic.

2. The View from Perkins Memorial Tower

From the summit, follow the white blazes of the Appalachian Trail (AT) down.
This section feels completely different —
stone steps, shaded forest, and occasional views through breaks in the trees.

The AT was actually the first section of the Appalachian Trail ever completed in 1923,
making this hike a piece of American hiking history.
It’s easier on the knees than Major Welch, but still long and steady.

At the base, you’ll loop back around Hessian Lake to where you started.
By now, your legs will be tired — but your heart will be full.

3. The Descent — Appalachian Trail

Why This Trail Feels Special

There are hundreds of trails around New York,
but Bear Mountain’s Major Welch + AT Loop stands out because it feels like a journey.
It’s not just walking — it’s ascending through silence, breaking into sunlight, then returning grounded.

You begin in a park filled with families and picnickers,
climb into solitude and stone,
stand above the world for a moment,
then descend back into community — changed.

Nearby Food & Relaxation

After your hike, treat yourself — you’ve earned it!

• Bear Mountain Inn Café — Grab coffee, local beer, or a hot meal.

• Hudson Creamery (Peekskill) — Homemade ice cream by the river (10 min drive).

• Cold Spring Village — Cozy cafés, vintage shops, and scenic riverside restaurants.
  Perfect for a half-day trip combo!

Visitor Tips & Reviews

According to AllTrails reviews:

“One of the most beautiful hikes in the Hudson Valley.
The Major Welch section is tough but rewarding — take your time and enjoy every step.”

Another user writes:

“If you start early (before 8AM), you’ll have the summit almost to yourself.
Bring layers — wind on the top can be cold even in summer.”

Perfect for

✔️ Weekend adventure seekers
✔️ Hikers training for longer trails
✔️ City dwellers needing peace and silence
✔️ Couples and photographers who love golden light views

Quick Facts Recap

Info Detail

• Location Bear Mountain State Park, NY

• Length 4.2 miles loop

• Elevation Gain ~1,200 ft (≈366 m)

• Duration 2.5–3.5 hours

• Dogs Allowed (on leash)

• Parking $10 per car

• Facilities Restrooms, café, visitor center

• Map App AllTrails Link

Final Thoughts

When you stand at the top of Bear Mountain,
the Hudson River below looks like a silver ribbon winding through history.
The world feels wide and calm again.

So if you ever feel tired of noise,
pack a bottle of water, tie your boots, and drive north.
Bear Mountain will remind you that you’re still part of something beautiful and wild.