The best traffic-free bike rides in Bear Mountain State Park
4.8
(7)
184
riders
10
rides
Touring cycling in Bear Mountain State Park offers diverse routes through the rugged Hudson Highlands, characterized by majestic mountains and the Hudson River. The park features varied terrain, including paved surfaces and challenging climbs with significant elevation gains. Many no traffic touring cycling routes provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including paths around Perkins Memorial Drive. This region is known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for both leisurely rides and more strenuous ascents.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Bear Mountain State Park
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is View from Bear Mountain Summit – Perkins Memorial Tower loop from Bear Mountain State Park, a moderate 8.2 miles (13.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This route offers sweeping views from the summit of Bear Mountain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Drum Hill – Creek Hill loop from Peekskill, a difficult 48.3 miles (77.7 km) path. This route features substantial elevation gain through the scenic Hudson Highlands.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Indian Brook Road - gravel – Sunken Mine Road loop from Peekskill, a difficult 48.5 miles (78.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 6 hours 45 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Bear Mountain State Park is defined by the rugged Hudson Highlands, the scenic Hudson River, and panoramic views from elevated points like Perkins Memorial Tower. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to challenging climbs.
- The routes in Bear Mountain State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 180 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Bear Mountain State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
riders
13.1km
01:03
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
76.3km
06:29
1,470m
1,470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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13
riders
78.0km
06:45
1,500m
1,500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
49.7km
03:18
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
47.7km
03:58
860m
860m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bear Mountain State Park
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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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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Popular hiking destination not far from New York City with great views
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The unobstructed 360 views are worth the extra 70 feet up the tower when it's open
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No views here as they are blocked by the trees, but it's the tallest natural point on the mountain as the geodesic marker indicates
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As a decent this was awesome! Right at the bottom of the first downhill you have some loose sand so be cautious. Right after that is a beautiful pond you loop right around, then another excellent downhill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Bear Mountain State Park?
Bear Mountain State Park offers 9 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes, providing a variety of options for cyclists looking for peaceful rides. These routes range from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable challenge for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes in Bear Mountain State Park offer varied terrain. While some sections are paved, you can expect significant elevation gains, with some climbs reaching up to 8% grade. For example, the View from Bear Mountain Summit – Perkins Memorial Tower loop features over 330 meters of elevation gain, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience with panoramic views.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling options in Bear Mountain State Park?
While many routes in Bear Mountain State Park feature challenging climbs, there are options that can be enjoyed by families, particularly those with some cycling experience. The park's diverse offerings include areas with paved surfaces and less strenuous sections. Always check the route details for specific difficulty ratings to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer stunning views and pass by significant landmarks. You can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands from the View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain and the View of the Hudson Highlands from Bear Mountain. The Hessian Lake is another picturesque spot you might encounter.
Are there any loop touring cycling routes available in Bear Mountain State Park?
Yes, there are several loop routes designed for touring cyclists. For instance, the The Lakes Loop offers a substantial ride of nearly 50 km with over 730 meters of elevation gain, providing a comprehensive tour of the area's natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
Bear Mountain State Park is beautiful year-round, but for touring cycling, spring and fall are particularly popular. Spring offers lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, while fall provides spectacular foliage views, especially along routes that offer elevated perspectives of the Hudson Highlands.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bear Mountain State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Bear Mountain State Park, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the stunning panoramic views from elevated points like Perkins Memorial Tower, and the opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Hudson Highlands.
Is public transport accessible for reaching the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Bear Mountain State Park is accessible by public transport, though options may vary. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules, particularly services that connect to the park's main entrances or nearby towns like Peekskill, which serve as starting points for some routes such as the Drum Hill – Creek Hill loop from Peekskill.
Where can I park my car when visiting for a no-traffic touring cycling route?
Bear Mountain State Park offers various parking facilities. The main parking areas near the Bear Mountain Inn and Hessian Lake are common starting points for many activities, including cycling. Always check park signage for specific parking regulations and fees upon arrival.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Bear Mountain State Park?
Bear Mountain State Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check the specific regulations for each trail or area you plan to cycle, as some restrictions may apply to certain facilities or protected wildlife areas within the park.
Are there any particularly challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders will find several challenging routes. For instance, the Indian Brook Road - gravel – Sunken Mine Road loop from Peekskill is rated as difficult, covering nearly 78 km with over 1500 meters of elevation gain, offering a strenuous and rewarding ride through varied terrain.
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