One of Upstate New York’s Most Beautiful State Parks is Getting a Huge $25 Million Upgrade

Bear Mountain State Park — a Hudson Valley icon just 40 miles north of NYC — is about to get a massive glow-up. Governor Kathy Hochul just announced a $25 million revitalization project that will transform the 115-year-old park with new family-friendly amenities, upgraded infrastructure, and fresh ways to enjoy one of New York’s most beloved outdoor escapes. What’s coming to Bear Mountain State Park ----------------------------------------- Over the next two years, Bear Mountain will see sweeping improvements, including: * A brand-new destination playground built into the slope of the mountain, featuring rock scrambles, slides up to 70 feet long, and immersive play areas designed for kids of all ages and abilities. * Expanded picnic areas along the main lawn and Hessian Lake, doubling capacity while protecting the park’s landscape. * New restrooms and a central gathering plaza , making it easier for the park to welcome its millions of yearly visitors. * Landscape upgrades with fresh plantings and protected shade trees. * Modernized infrastructure , including stormwater and electrical updates, to ensure the park is future-ready. Construction will begin after Labor Day 2025 and is expected to wrap in time for the summer 2027 season . The park will remain open throughout, though visitors may encounter some capacity restrictions during peak times. Founded in 1909, Bear Mountain is one of the oldest parks in the New York State system , spanning 5,205 acres along the Hudson River. It draws more than 2.3 million visitors a year — a number that’s surged by 25% over the last decade. Beloved for its sweeping views and wide range of activities, the park features: * Over 50 miles of hiking trails , including the original stretch of the Appalachian Trail * Fishing and boating on Hessian Lake and the Hudson River * A seasonal swimming pool and outdoor ice skating rink * The Trailside Museums & Zoo * The Perkins Memorial Tower , with panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands * And even a hand-carved merry-go-round featuring black bears, bobcats, deer, and other native animals Governor Hochul emphasized that the investment is all about making Bear Mountain more welcoming for today’s visitors while preserving it for generations to come. “By expanding access, upgrading infrastructure and enhancing recreation opportunities, we’re making it easier for everyone to get offline, get outside and enjoy time together in one of New York’s most beloved state parks,” she said. How to visit Bear Mountain State Park from NYC ---------------------------------------------- Bear Mountain is about an hour’s drive from NYC , making it one of the easiest nature escapes from the city. Or for our train lovers, take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central to Peekskill station and catch a quick rideshare to the park! Source: https://secretnyc.co/bear-mountain-state-park-25-million-renovation/