Escape to Bear Mountain: A Breathtaking Hike Just an Hour from NYC
Need a break from the chaos of city life? Here’s your perfect quick getaway: a hike up Bear Mountain followed by cold brews and live music at the iconic Oktoberfest celebration. Just an hour outside of New York City, this spot offers fresh air, killer views, and the kind of laid-back fun you didn’t know you were missing.
We recently took a little escape from the buzzing energy of NYC — screens, meetings, airports, you name it. Sometimes, the best therapy is a trail, some trees, and a good sweat. Bear Mountain delivered.
Now, we’re not exactly hardcore hikers with trekking poles and camelbacks, but we love getting out into nature to move, breathe, and reset. And honestly? There’s nothing like guilt-free feasting after a solid hike.
Our adventure kicked off with a scenic 2-hour loop hike up to Bear Mountain’s summit. The route we took brought us down along a short stretch of the legendary Appalachian Trail — how cool is that? Even though the fall foliage hadn’t quite popped yet, the panoramic views from the top were absolutely worth every step.
Pro Tip: Download the AllTrails app before you go. It makes planning super easy, letting you browse routes by difficulty, length, and recent trail conditions. Plus, it helps you stay on course during the hike.
After conquering the trail, we made our way to the nearby Oktoberfest at Bear Mountain — and wow, what a party. Think live bands, frosty mugs of beer, delicious eats, and booths full of local crafts and quirky finds. It gets packed fast though, so if you’re hoping to grab food, get there early or pack a snack for the hike.
If you’re not in a rush to head back to the city, check out the historic Bear Mountain Inn. It’s rustic, cozy, and surprisingly affordable — perfect for turning your day trip into a mini weekend escape. Enjoy some post-hike R&R with a drink in hand and nature all around you.
Oh, and dog lovers — good news! Both the hike and Oktoberfest are pet-friendly, so bring your pup along for the adventure.
Looking for an easy, refreshing, and fun day trip from NYC? Bear Mountain’s got you covered. Nature, brews, mountain views — what more could you ask for?
Prost to the perfect escape!
