Events

The 2024 Hudson River Valley Ramble will occur on August 31st and every day in September. Event leaders will be able to submit events in Spring. If you have questions about hosting an event for the Ramble, please email ramble@hudsongreenway.ny.gov.

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Bear Mountain Loop via Major Welch Trail and Appalachian Trail

Location

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

41.312346 -73.991629

County: Orange
Region: Mid Hudson

Date(s)

  • September 22, 2019, 10:00AM

Details

Event Type Walk/Hike Description We’ll meet at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail near the southern end of Hessian Lake. From there, we'll walk north along the western shore of Hessian Lake to the start of the Major Welch Trail. Turning left into the woods, the ascent begins on stone steps, but quickly becomes rocky footpath. Gradually the climb becomes steeper, passing through stands of mountain laurel, as the footpath alternates between rocky footpath, well-graded footpath, stone steps and rock outcrop. We'll enjoy the north facing and panoramic views of the Hudson River, before we complete the climb to the summit. Here you can explore Perkins Memorial Tower and enjoy the all-encompassing views of the Hudson Valley. After a rest and lunch, we'll continue to the Appalachian Trail and begin our descent. After crossing and then joining parts of Perkins Drive, the trail descends over 800 magnificent hand-hewn stone steps built in place by NY-NJ Trail Conference Volunteers over a 5 year period. We'll pass a seasonal waterfall, cross a wooden bridge and enjoy views of Iona Island and the Hudson River. At the end of these giant steps, we'll be right back where we started. Organization Hosting the Event SCA Excelsior Corps Phone Number 845-786-2701 x293

Registration

Advance registration required.
Call 845-786-2701 x293 to register.
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
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