Archives for August 2023

Due to major storm damage on July 9th, areas of Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park remain closed. 

New York State Parks and the Palisades Interstate Park Commission have announced the initial phase of reopening Bear Mountain State Park following the severe storms on July 8 and 9. The details of the reopening are shared below.

The park picnic grounds and Hessian Lake loop trail have reopened effective today (August 23). The Bear Mountain Carousel and Hessian Lake Paddle Boat concession are scheduled to reopen on Saturday (August 26). Public restrooms are open; however, due to a remaining boil water advisory, the Park will provide drinking water from a portable tanker located near the carousel until the alert is lifted. Visitors are invited to bring their own reusable water bottles and fill up. Access to Bear Mountain is currently available only through its main entrance off Route 9W near the Bear Mountain Bridge.

Even where trails are passable, the shaded area is closed to the public and hiking is not permitted. Before travelling, visitors should be aware that many road/trailhead parking lot closures are in effect in the surrounding area including Seven Lakes Drive from Tiorati Circle to Long Mountain Circle and Exit 19 on the Palisades Interstate Parkway to Rt 9W. Hikers should exercise caution as backcountry trails have been impacted by erosion and downed trees. For more details on closures and access, reference the map shown here.

As a reminder to all trail users, the detour for the Appalachian Trail shown on the map is for thru-hikers only. For additional information on the detour of the A.T. in Bear Mountain visit the corresponding Trail Alert.

Click here to view a larger map.

For additional information and updates about these closures, please visit the NYS Parks website.