The park's stone tower, Perkins Memorial Tower, was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
The Appalachian Trail crosses the Hudson River via the Bear Mountain Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1924.
The Trailside Museums and Zoo is built on the site of a former Revolutionary War fort known as Fort Clinton.
The park's carousel features hand-carved wooden animals including native cats, birds, and fish rather than traditional horses.
The geology of the park is dominated by Precambrian gneiss, some of the oldest rock formations in the region.
Bear Mountain State Park features a prominent stone observation tower at the summit of Bear Mountain offering views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline on clear days. The park encompasses the Trailside Museums and Zoo, which serves as a rehabilitation center for injured native wildlife. Hikers can access a portion of the Appalachian Trail, which traverses through the park via a unique stone staircase. Recreational facilities include Hessian Lake for paddle boating and a seasonally operated outdoor swimming pool. The park provides extensive picnic groves equipped with charcoal grills and tables. During winter months, the park operates an outdoor ice skating rink at the base of the mountain. The Perkins Memorial Drive provides vehicular access to the summit from April through November, weather permitting. The grounds serve as a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, characteristic of the Hudson Highlands geological region.
The observation deck at the top of Perkins Memorial Tower.
Visit the summit via the Perkins Memorial Drive for expansive views without requiring a strenuous hike.
Bring your own charcoal and firewood if you intend to use the public grills in the designated picnic areas.
Check the official park website for trail closures before arrival, as heavy rain often leads to temporary path restrictions.
Do not attempt to park on the roadside during peak weekends when parking lots reach capacity; visitors will be turned away.
Perkins Memorial Drive and the summit tower are closed to vehicles during winter months; outdoor swimming pool is seasonal.
Stay on marked trails to protect local ecosystems; pack out all trash to adhere to 'Leave No Trace' principles.
