Bear Mountain - Perkins Memorial Tower  and Zoo (Accessible)

Duration: 3-5 Hours
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2-4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 200 ft.

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From April - November, this hike starts at the Perkins Memorial Tower, atop Bear Mountain, with sweeping views of the Hudson Valley below.  We'll walk 1.3 miles along one of the few sections of the Appalachian Trail that was built with wide, fine-crushed stone, and limited inclines, creating a beautiful and fully accessible trail. The trail leads to another stunning viewpoint and loops back to the starting point. The short walk will be followed by a scenic drive down Perkins Memorial Drive to the Inn, where we'll meet back up with the Appalachian Trail. 

From December to March, the starting point is at the Bear Mountain Inn. There is a nice lake to walk around on a paved path, and a new outdoor exhibit about trail building. There are picnic tables, vending machines, and restrooms at the lake. Please feel free to bring lunch or a snack. Water will be provided. 

Next, we will continue north along the Appalachian trail on a paved walkway, taking frequent breaks to visit the trailside zoo and museum exhibits. At the north end of the zoo, is a unique view of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain Bridge, Hudson Highlands, and a telescope to get a closer look at the surrounding area. After taking in the views, we will finish walking back through the zoo, completing this unique section of the Appalachian Trail.

If time permits, there is the option to extend the hiking distance by walking to fort Montgomery, over the Bear Mountain Bridge, or hiking South on the Appalachian Trail up Bear Mountain.

If you're looking for other activities after the tour, the Bear Mountain Inn also has a restaurant, spa, gift shop, merry-go-round, paddleboat rentals on the lake, outdoor ice skating rink, and more!

Summer Meeting Location: Perkins Memorial Tower
Bear Mountain State Park, Perkins Memorial Dr, Stony Point, NY 10980
Winter Meeting Location: Bear Mountain Inn
3020 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986

There is a $10 per vehicle parking fee.

​There is no cell phone service at some meeting locations.

Guided Day Hikes Include:

• Licensed guide and certified wilderness first responder
• Group gear (Water filter, first aid kit, maps, compass)
• Snacks & water bottles
• Trekking pole rental

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, sturdy footwear (Trail runners or hiking boots)
• Rain jacket, poncho or umbrella

*Return times are best estimates, and can vary based on the speed and fitness level of the group.

*Perkins Memorial Drive and Tower are closed from December 1st through April 1st, however the Zoo and hiking trails are open year round.