Lets' enjoy more autumn color as we "cross a few more bridges" together.
This approx. 3 hour approx. 3 1/2 miles moderate paced hike(with lots of stops and early outs if needed), has a little bit of everything; a short visit to the zoo, spectacular scenic Hudson River views, a walk across the Suspension and Popolopen bridges and breaks to take it all in!
Much of the hike is on paved roads but there are rocky steps and woods trails on a moderately steep, probably leaf covered descent to the Popolopen Suspension Bridge and a short moderately steep ascent on a woods trail going up to the Ft. Montgomery Museum where we will have a short visit and break.(they also have a gift shop so bring credit cards, cash, etc.)
Hiking boots or shoes are recommended as are hiking poles for the ups and downs. Bring WATER which is mandatory, Bug spray, sun protection, snacks, binoculars and don't forget those cameras! DRESS in layers as it can get breezy on the bridge.
Meet in front of the Inn by the little bear statues on either side of the front doors. (circular driveway with flag)
Check out the gift shop which offers some fun and unique treasures. Come early to check them out or stop in after the hike if there is time. They are usually open until 6pm.
There is a $10 per car parking fee unless you have a state park pass. NYS seniors over 62 are free during regular weekdays. Donations at the zoo are always welcome.
Optional dinner at The Pancake Factory which has pancakes and everything else or Halligans Public House in Stony Point depending upon interest and availability.
As with all of our events, you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of your guests. Hiking can be dangerous and injuries can occur, sometimes fatal. Trail blazes can sometimes be missing so there is always the possibility of getting off trail and possibly lost. Knowing this you agree to hike at your own risk and we cannot be held responsible for any injuries you or your guests may incur.
Inclement weather cancels. ALWAYS check the day of an event for possible changes.
For Directions go to: https://visitbearmountain.com/about-us/maps-directions/ from the Bear Mt. Park website
FYI:
Popolopen Bridge, Suspension footbridge across the Popolopen Creek and the Bear mt bridge.
On the walkway facing northeast, you can see 3 bridges from the Bear Mountain Bridge: the Popolopen Suspension Bridge, the Popolopen Creek Suspension Footbridge, and the train tracks. These bridges cross Popolopen Creek.
Popolopen Creek
Popolopen Creek is a stream, that is mostly fed by Lake Popolopen, Stillwell Lake, and Weyant's Pond. Eventually, the creek drains into the Hudson River. In 2002, New York's Governor George Pataki, dedicated a long suspension foot bridge that spans Popolopen Creek. The footbridge connects the trail between the twin forts and carries the Appalachian Trail on the western side of the Bear Mountain Bridge.
Popolopen Creek Suspension Footbridge
The Popolopen Creek Footbridge, a bridge for pedestrians only, was designed to create an economic and esthetically pleasing river crossing of 140m on the Appalachian Trail in Bear Mountain Park. The Popolopen Creek Suspension Footbridge is located in Fort Montgomery in Bear Mountain Park. You can access the bridge on a path near the Bear Mountain Bridge toll booths. Or, you can get to Popolopen Creek from Fort Montgomery.
American Revolution
Fort Montgomery and Fort Clinton, forts on each side of Popolopen Creek, were the scenes of fierce American Revolutionary war battles for control of the Hudson River. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts; destroying Fort Montgomery in the days that followed.
Today, Fort Montgomery (http://www.hudson-river-valley.com/direct.html?http://www.westchestertowns.com/htm/lnk/Link0043.html) is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Visitors will see the actual foundations of the fort's buildings and remains of the fort's earthworks. Visit Fort Montgomery and tour the remains of the 14 1/2 acre fortification, perched on a cliff overlooking the Hudson River.
