Bear Mountain (New York)

Bear Mountain

4.5 mile sunrise loop hike in Bear Mountain State Park (NY) to Perkins Memorial Tower and Bear Mountain taking the Major Welch trail clockwise. While clouds were below, it was clear at the top with a hint of fall in the air.

Trailhead:

Appalachian Trail/Major Welch (41.31264418225662, -73.99130259953462)
Difficulty:

If you can climb stairs you can do this hike. Suggest bringing poles for the hike down (lots of rocks and potential for slippage.)
Aesthetic Rating:

Almost a 360 degree view from the top. Fall (and sunrise!) is a great time for this hike. The surrounding hills were already changing color and, because of our elevation, we were above the cloud cover. Descending later, Hessian Lake was shrouded by the early morning fog.
Distance:

4.5 mile loop
Type:

Dayhike