Outbound Collective logo

Escape the Bustle of New York City with a Weekend at Bear Mountain

A rustic getaway only 45 minutes from Manhattan.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

When the Bear Mountain Inn opened in 1915, The American Architect named it one of the "finest examples of rustic Adirondack architecture in America." Today, it's historic beauty remains, as its an ideal location for a rustic, adventurous getaway less than an hour from the bustle of New York City.

The Bear Mountain Inn is nestled at the base of Bear Mountain, right along the Appalachian Trail. Choose your own adventure on the accommodations: the Inn itself has 15 deluxe guest rooms and suites, the nearby Overlook Lodge has 24 standard guest rooms (including a few pet-friendly rooms!), and the Stone Cottages are perfect for anyone looking for a rustic, cabin experience. 

No matter where you stay, enjoy the calming sounds of the Hudson River by night and explore the mountainous region by day.

Hike on the Appalachian Trail

Photo by Shaun O'Neill

You won't even need to hop in your car to take the 2-mile roundtrip hike on the Appalachian Trail to Anthony's Nose. Enjoy views of the Hudson River and Bear Mountain from this panoramic viewpoint. It's the perfect way to burn off last night's decadent dinner from Restaurant 1915.

The Inn also offers guided historic hikes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. We like the sound of the walk through the ghost town of Doodletown.

Visit Historic Sites

Photo by Tim Evanson

Once a crossroads for soldiers in the Revolutionary War, there is plenty of history to explore around Bear Mountain. Springwood Estate, the home of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and site of the first Presidential Library, is about a one hour drive north along the Hudson River. The National Historic Landmark has a visitors center, and the President's home is open for guided tours.

Other sites to check out include Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site and the campus of West Point.

Explore the Park

Photo courtesy of the Bear Mountain Inn

The Bear Mountain Inn is situated inside Bear Mountain State Park, a 5,000-plus acre state park that is full of places to explore. In the summer, check out the lake and river access along the Hudson River, the large outdoor swimming pool, hiking and biking trails, Perkins Memorial Drive (which climbs to the top of Bear Mountain), and a merry-go-round made of 42 hand-carved seats featuring native animals.

In the winter, an outdoor ice skating rink is open from October through March, and cross country ski trails criss-cross the park. Plus, inside the Bear Mountain Inn, a cozy lobby fireplace offers incredible views out onto the Hudson River.

No matter which season you go, you'll be sure to find an escape from the city at Bear Mountain.

Book your weekend getaway from New York City at the Bear Mountain Inn.

Cover photo courtesy of the Bear Mountain Inn.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.