The best road cycling routes in Bear Mountain State Park
4.6
(17)
781
riders
65
rides
Road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park is characterized by its location within the rugged Hudson Highlands, offering a blend of challenging terrain and scenic routes. The park encompasses Bear Mountain, Dunderberg Mountain, and West Mountain, providing significant elevation changes for cyclists. Routes often feature views of the Hudson River and surrounding peaks, with paved roads leading to vantage points like Perkins Memorial Tower. This region is known for its demanding ascents, including the notable Bear Mountain climb.
Best road cycling routes in Bear Mountain State Park
- The most popular road cycling route is Bear Mountain Climb – Iona Island Bird Sanctuary loop from Anthony's Nose, a 10.8 miles (17.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 9 minutes to complete. This route features a well-known climb and scenic views of the Hudson River.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Long Pond – Highland Falls loop from Fort Montgomery, a moderate 17.7 miles (28.5 km) path. This route explores the area around Long Pond and Highland Falls, offering varied terrain.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bear Mountain Double Loop, a 43.3 miles (69.8 km) trail leading through the heart of the park, often completed in about 3 hours 44 minutes. This challenging route offers significant elevation gain.
- Road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park is defined by challenging ascents, views of the Hudson River, and routes through the Hudson Highlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Bear Mountain State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 600 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Bear Mountain State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
5.0
(2)
51
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
28.7km
01:42
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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7
riders
69.8km
03:44
1,070m
1,070m
This difficult 43.3-mile road cycling route in Bear Mountain State Park offers challenging climbs and sweeping views of the Hudson Highlands
8
riders
119km
06:11
1,820m
1,810m
Tackle the Harriman Madness Loop, a difficult 73.8-mile road cycling route with 5955 feet of elevation gain through Harriman State Park.
4.7
(3)
78
riders
85.0km
04:09
1,020m
1,020m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures in Bear Mountain State Park
Tips from the Community
Bear Mountain, located in the Hudson Highlands of southeastern New York, is one of the most notable landmarks on the Appalachian Trail in the state. The AT crosses directly over the summit, which stands at 1,305 feet, which is not especially high, but it is a historically and symbolically significant summit; it’s home to the oldest continuously maintained section of the Appalachian Trail, built in 1923, and features wide stone steps and paved walkways constructed by trail crews and the Civilian Conservation Corps. For many hikers, Bear Mountain is also the site of the lowest elevation point on the AT, near the Hudson River just before the climb. From the top, you get sweeping views of the Hudson Valley, and the surrounding Bear Mountain State Park includes a lake, picnic areas, the Trailside Museum and Zoo (which the AT technically passes through), and access to nearby Perkins Memorial Tower. It’s a popular day hike, so don’t be surprised to share the trail with weekend crowds, especially in fall.
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Bear Mountain peaks at just under 1,300 feet in elevation over a 4.5-mile stretch of picturesque paved road. Although it may seem small in comparison to some of the world’s renowned climbs, it makes up for this with stunning views of the Hudson Highlands.
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Little Long Pond is beautiful any time of year, but if you happen to be riding along Kanawauke Road during the fall color season you'll be in for a real treat!
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Covering 43 acres with an average depth of 15 feet, Lake Askoti is a popular spot for fishing. The lake is stocked with hundreds of Brown Trout which means anglers have a good chance of making a catch at one of the many access points along Seve Lakes Drive.
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Lake Tiorati (Algonquin for sky-like) is one of the seven main lakes in Harriman State Park. Swimming, boating, camping, hiking, and ice-fishing are all popular activities on the lake.
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The road makes a loop around the summit of Bear Mountain with the Perkins Memorial Tower at its center. From the top you get sweeping views south across the Hudson, Harriman State Park, and the route taken by the Appalachian Trail.
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Highland Falls, situated in Orange County, New York, is a quaint village neighboring the renowned United States Military Academy at West Point. With a population of around 3,900, the village boasts a rich history intertwined with the academy's legacy. Its scenic location along the Hudson River and proximity to the Hudson Highlands State Park offer residents and visitors ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. With plenty of local shops, restaurants, and annual events, Highland Falls is a great spot for residents and visitors alike to relax after a long ride or hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
Road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park is known for its challenging terrain within the rugged Hudson Highlands. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, including demanding ascents like the famous Bear Mountain climb, which features a 10% gradient. Routes often provide stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding peaks.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Bear Mountain State Park?
Yes, while the park is known for its challenging climbs, there are routes suitable for various skill levels. Out of the 66 road cycling routes available, 8 are classified as easy, offering a gentler introduction to the park's scenic beauty.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer spectacular views. You can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands from various points, including the scenic drive to Perkins Memorial Tower. Other notable features include View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain, View of the Hudson Highlands from Bear Mountain, and Bear Mountain Spur Roundabout.
How many road cycling routes are available in Bear Mountain State Park?
There are 66 road cycling routes available in Bear Mountain State Park, catering to a range of abilities from easy to difficult. These routes have been explored by over 600 road cyclists using komoot.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
The park is generally accessible for road cycling from spring through late autumn. Perkins Memorial Tower, a popular viewpoint, is open seasonally from April to late November. These periods typically offer the most favorable weather conditions for cycling and access to all park amenities.
Are there any long-distance or challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Bear Mountain Double Loop, spanning nearly 70 km with significant elevation gain, or the Harriman Madness Loop, which is over 118 km, offer demanding rides. There are 22 routes classified as difficult in the park.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging ascents, the rewarding panoramic views of the Hudson River and Highlands, and the diverse terrain that makes each ride unique.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities near the road cycling routes?
Yes, Bear Mountain State Park offers several family-friendly attractions. You can visit the Trailside Museums and Zoo, enjoy the Merry-Go-Round, or rent pedal boats on Hessian Lake. These can be great additions to a cycling trip with the family.
Can I access the park by public transport for road cycling?
While the region is popular for cycling, specific public transport options directly to trailheads for cyclists are not extensively detailed. It's advisable to check local bus or train services to nearby towns like Peekskill or Fort Montgomery and plan your route from there, or consider driving and utilizing parking facilities within the park.
Where can I find parking when road cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
Bear Mountain State Park offers various parking areas, especially around popular attractions like the Bear Mountain Inn and the base of the Perkins Memorial Tower scenic drive. Parking availability can vary, particularly on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any moderate-difficulty road cycling routes that offer varied scenery?
Yes, a popular moderate route is the Long Pond – Highland Falls loop from Fort Montgomery. This 28.5 km path explores the area around Long Pond and Highland Falls, providing varied terrain and scenic views without the extreme challenges of the most difficult climbs. There are 36 moderate routes in total.
What other outdoor activities are available in Bear Mountain State Park besides road cycling?
Bear Mountain State Park is a hub for outdoor activities. Beyond cycling, you can enjoy extensive hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, boating on Hessian Lake, and visiting the Trailside Museums and Zoo. Seasonal activities include swimming, fishing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.
Most popular routes in Bear Mountain State Park
Most popular attractions in Bear Mountain State Park
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