Frequently Asked Questions
Short, sourced answers to the questions people ask most about Bear Mountain State Park in New York. Each answer links to the page that covers it in full. Facts come from NYS Parks, the Palisades Interstate Park Commission and the operators of the Inn, zoo and rink, checked in October 2026.
Bear Mountain State Park FAQ
Is Bear Mountain State Park free?
No. It costs $10 per vehicle to park, collected year round. Walking in is free. The pool ($5), ice rink ($5), boats and merry-go-round cost extra; the zoo asks a $1 donation.
What are Bear Mountain State Park's hours?
Dawn to dusk, every day of the year.
Where is Bear Mountain State Park?
On the west bank of the Hudson River in Bear Mountain, New York, about 45 miles north of New York City, off Exit 19 of the Palisades Interstate Parkway and Route 9W.
Does Bear Mountain fill up?
Yes. On busy days, especially fall weekends, NYS Parks closes the park to incoming cars once the lots are full, and roadside parking is towed. Arrive early.
Are dogs allowed at Bear Mountain?
Yes, on a leash of 6 feet or less, but not in buildings, picnic areas, bathing areas, on walkways or in Trailside Museums & Zoo.
Can you swim at Bear Mountain?
Only in the pool, in summer ($5 cash; in 2026, July 4 to September 7). Hessian Lake is marked "No Swimming."
Can you camp at Bear Mountain State Park?
No. It is a day-use park. To stay overnight, book the Bear Mountain Inn, Overlook Lodge or the Stone Cottages; NYS Parks runs campgrounds in neighbouring Harriman State Park.
Can you drive to the top of Bear Mountain?
Yes, on Perkins Memorial Drive, from April 1 to November 30, weather permitting.
How long is the hike up Bear Mountain?
The NYS Parks loop to Perkins Memorial Tower from the Bear Mountain Inn is 3.9 miles, rated challenging, climbing about 900 feet to the 1,305-foot summit.
Is the Appalachian Trail at Bear Mountain?
Yes. Bear Mountain's section was the first part of the AT ever built. It crosses the summit, runs through the zoo and crosses the Bear Mountain Bridge.
How much is the Bear Mountain zoo?
Trailside Museums & Zoo is free, with a $1 per person suggested donation. It is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Can you get to Bear Mountain by public transit?
Yes. Coach USA buses run from Port Authority to the Bear Mountain Inn, or take Metro-North to Manitou and walk about 2.5 miles across the Bear Mountain Bridge.
Is there an ice rink at Bear Mountain?
Yes, an outdoor rink by Hessian Lake, $5 to skate. The 2026–27 season opens November 7.
How much is the Bear Mountain Bridge toll?
$1.65 for a car with E-ZPass or $2.15 by mail, eastbound only.
Is Bear Mountain the same as Bear Brook State Park?
No. Bear Brook State Park is in New Hampshire. Bear Mountain State Park is in New York's Hudson Highlands.