Bear Mountain State Park
Pair a riverside mountain with Hessian Lake, wooded trails, and long bridge views.
Artwork inspired by John Sloan
Bear Mountain rises beside a bend in the Hudson, where the bridge, Hessian Lake, and wooded slopes offer different visits. A short day might center on the lake; a longer one can climb toward Perkins Memorial Tower for a Highlands panorama. The Trailside Museums and Zoo interprets regional wildlife rather than offering a conventional large-zoo experience. Choose your route before following the first crowded path.
The park opens year-round from dawn to dusk and collects a $10 vehicle fee. The pool, rink, tower road, and Trailside facilities keep separate schedules, so park entry does not promise every attraction is operating. Storm damage and construction can close trails; inspect current alerts before a summit hike. Steep routes are a poor match for a casual lakeside outing.
- Setting
- West bank of the Hudson
- Viewpoint
- Perkins Memorial Tower
- Park hours
- Dawn to dusk
Quick guide
- Choose lake or summit
- Hessian Lake is a gentler park day; Perkins Tower and trails demand more time and climbing.
- Check attraction hours
- Park gates and seasonal facilities do not share one schedule.
Know before you go
- Start by Hessian Lake
- Orient yourself between mountain, river, and bridge.
- Pick an appropriate climb
- Check mileage, grade, and current trail status before leaving the lower park.
- Visit Trailside thoughtfully
- Its local animals and exhibits connect the hike to Highlands habitats.
- Watch the season
- A winter visit can be rewarding even when pool or tower road is closed.
Good to know
A map pin for the park is not a promise of an open summit road or trail; confirm current closures before setting out.
Notice these
- Hessian Lake
- Bear Mountain Bridge views
- Perkins Memorial Tower