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Move With John · Hudson Valley, New York
Bear Mountain Loop via Twin Forts: My 7.1-Mile Hike
By John Cordeira · Bear Mountain, NY · Original photos from my hike
7.1 mi
Recorded distance
1,572 ft
Total ascent
3 hr 5 min
Total time
Loop
Trail format
Quick Facts
Where: Bear Mountain, in New York's Hudson Valley
Route: Bear Mountain Loop via Twin Forts, as named by my hike tracker
Descent: 1,601 feet total
The climb: A more manageable trail with built stone steps
The descent: A rougher trail over jagged, uneven rock that took real attention
The payoff: Rocky overlooks with views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains
My hike near Bear Mountain took me up a trail with solid stone steps, down a much rougher stretch of jagged rock, and out to views of the Hudson River. The contrast between the manageable climb and the technical descent is what stayed with me.
Rocky overlook and Hudson Valley views on my hike. Photo: John Cordeira.
The Climb and Those Stone Steps
On the way up, I took an easier trail with built stone steps. It was a more manageable climb than I expected: a steady uphill workout with some great scenery along the way. Stone steps like these are exactly what I like on a trail. They feel solid and they belong in the landscape.
The Rocky Descent Was a Different Challenge
Going down was another story. I took a more rugged trail with jagged, uneven rocks. Every foot placement mattered, and it was a reminder that the way down can be harder than the way up, even after you've already reached the overlook.
A stop along the Appalachian Trail near Bear Mountain.
The Views That Made It Worthwhile
The reward was the view: rocky ground underfoot, wooded mountains in the distance and the Hudson River stretching between the hills. That's what I love about getting off Long Island for a mountain hike. You put in the physical work, and you get moments like this along the way.
A bench with a view over the Hudson River. Photo: John Cordeira.
John's Take
Stone steps on the way up, jagged rock on the way down, and the Hudson below. That contrast is what I remember about the day.
7.1 miles in 3 hours and 5 minutes, with over 1,500 feet of climbing. A loop with stonework, real scenery and a descent that keeps you honest. That's the kind of hike I'm after.
My Recorded Route
My hike tracker showing the route and elevation profile. Base map attributed to Mapbox within the image. Use current official maps and trail markings for navigation.
My tracker identifies the overall route as Bear Mountain Loop via Twin Forts. My photos and notes include Appalachian Trail scenery near Bear Mountain, but the screenshot doesn't identify every trail segment of the loop, and I won't guess at those connections.
Before You Go
Use official maps. My tracker and stats are a record of my hike, not a navigation guide. Follow current official maps and trail markings.
Plan your descent. The rocky way down took more care than the climb. Wear footwear with real grip.
Your numbers will vary. Distance, pace and elevation depend on the exact route and conditions.
Pack enough water and food. At 7.1 miles with steep climbs and rocky footing, don't wait until you're hungry.
Bear Mountain Hiking FAQs
How long is the Bear Mountain Loop via Twin Forts?
My recorded route was 7.1 miles in 3 hours and 5 minutes, with 1,572 feet of ascent and 1,601 feet of descent. Your numbers will vary with the exact route you follow.
What was the hardest part of the hike?
The descent. I climbed on a more manageable route with built stone steps, but the way down was jagged, uneven rock that needed careful footing.
Is the whole route on the Appalachian Trail?
I can't say that. My tracker names the Bear Mountain Loop via Twin Forts, and my photos include Appalachian Trail scenery near Bear Mountain, but the tracker doesn't identify every segment.
Can you live near Bear Mountain?
Bear Mountain State Park is public parkland, not a residential town. Nearby communities include Fort Montgomery and Highland Falls in Orange County, and Stony Point and Tomkins Cove in Rockland County. My Living Near Bear Mountain guide covers them.
Live near Bear Mountain
This hike made me curious about where people actually live near these mountains. I researched the nearby communities and made sure their homes are searchable on my site. I haven't personally visited every neighborhood in them.
Explore Living Near Bear Mountain
Fort Montgomery · Highland Falls · Stony Point · Tomkins Cove
More Move With John Adventures
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Know a Mountain I Should Climb?
A Hudson Valley loop, a stone-step climb, an overlook worth the drive. Tell me and I'll go hike it.
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John Cordeira
Broker/Owner, Cordeira Homes
Long Island, New York
#RippedRealtor
Fuel for the adventure: for a mountain hike like this, I pack water and snacks like Project LeanNation protein bars. Affiliate/referral link: I may receive a benefit if you use it. Availability varies by location.