Events

Bear Mountain Loop via Appalachian Trail and Major Welch Trail

Location

Bear Mountain State Park
Appalachian Trail and Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail Junction near Hessian Lake
Bear Mountain, NY 10911

County: Orange
Region: Mid Hudson

Date(s)

• September 17, 2017, 9:00AM
• September 30, 2017, 9:00AM

Details

Event Type Walk/Hike Description Beginning at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail near the southern end of Hessian Lake, the steep ascent up Bear Mountain starts by way of many hundreds of impressive stone steps along the Appalachian Trail, which takes you through a section of large boulders, over a bridge, and to beautiful views of Iona Island and the Hudson River. Transitioning to a more gradual ascent, you walk through pine flats, blueberry and mountain laurel to the summit. Here you will enjoy panoramic views to the south and west over Dunderberg and West Mountains. Perkins Memorial Tower provides more views with interpretive signage. After a break for lunch, a snack or just to enjoy the views, the Major Welch Trail will take you to more vistas to the north and east as you begin the descent. Traversing rock outcrops and stone steps, the steep path down ends at a paved footpath at Hessian Lake, which takes you back to the start. Organization Hosting the Event SCA Excelsior Corps Phone Number 845-786-2701 x293

Registration

Advance registration required.
For the September 17 hike, please register by September 15 at noon. For the September 30 hike, please register by September 28 at noon. 845-786-2701 x293
There is a $10 parking fee at Bear Mountain State Park.

Additional Information

steep ascents and descents, uneven rocky surfaces, rock scrambling
Additional Equipment Required: Bring plenty of drinking water.

Event Duration (hours): 3.5
Difficulty: Difficult
Not suitable for children under age 12.
Length (miles): 4
Boots Needed: Yes

Barrier Free or Wheelchar accessible? No