Mount Beacon Scenic Hudson Parking Lot — Attraction in City of Beacon

Parking lot for the hiking trail leading up to the Beacon Overlook. The parking lot itself gets full by late morning during the summer and fall months. Best to get there before 10am. I got there at 11am on a nice fall Sunday and it was full, but luckily I was able to get a curbside spot right near the lot. The lot and curbside parking were both free. There are two port a potties in the lot, but as of 11 am on a Sunday, they were both pretty filthy.

The hike to the Beacon Overlook was a lot more challenging as I expected...I wish I would have came a bit more prepared. More comfortable (hiking, if possible) shoes and definitely a water bottle. (I had a backpack of camera gear, but puma sneakers and no water) It took me about 45 minutes to get to the Overlook, which involved a large staircase earlier on, followed by lots of inclined and rocky paths to the top. I would be cautious taking older individuals or young children...though it really does depend on the person.

The Overlook as epected offers some amazing views of the Hudson River and Hudson Valley area. During the fall when the leaves change colors, the views are particularly amazing.

From there, you can proceed onto other areas further in the hike, such as the fire tower. The overlook was enough for me and I decided to return to the parking area.

Though the descension is easier on the legs, you still have to be very careful as the rocks underneath can slide, taking you along with them. Also, if your legs are tired from the climb up...they can be a bit wobbly on the way back down, giving you a false sense of foot placement.

Remember to follow the hiking path markers. (Red) Lucikly, google maps worked very well throughout my hike...so that can come in handy if you lose your way.

Be safe, come...

Awesome hike with gorgeous views. The parking lot fills up easily but there are residential roads you can park along so it's not that stressful. But still arrive early!! The beginning part is like 200 steps and then you start going up the mountain at a steep incline. Follow the red trail and then the white (to the right!! Easy to miss. If you see the yellow trail marker you went too far) to the fire tower. You can climb it!! Beautiful 360 degree view! And go back the same way you came from, would take maybe 3-4 hours total for the hike depending on how long your breaks are. Good down is slippery bc of the leaves. Be careful! I saw several families with children turn back around bc it was too hard for the kids to hike. Keep that in mind. This is not a hike you'll want to carry your kids on either. If you fall they fall and it's definitely a...

Rigorous but worthwhile hike. A steep rocky ascent up to the 1500ft elevation of the north peak by the communications antennas and the DAR memorial to the Beacon keepers (hence the name) from the revolutionary war watching out for those shifty Brits sailing up the Hudson in the 1700's. Architectural and mechanical ruins galore for the intrepid hiker. Unbelievable views along most portions. Parking at the trailhead is tight/full by noon on the warm weather weekends. Bring water as there no amenities away from the small market adjacent to the...