Attractions and places to see around Woodbury encompass a diverse landscape, primarily centered around the Hudson Valley and Bear Mountain region. This area is characterized by significant natural features, including the Hudson River, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor attractions, from scenic viewpoints to historic trails. The region offers opportunities for hiking and cycling, with several notable landmarks.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Bear Mountain, located in the Hudson Highlands of southeastern New York, is one of the most notable landmarks on the Appalachian Trail in the state. The AT crosses directly over the summit, which stands at 1,305 feet, which is not especially high, but it is a historically and symbolically significant summit; it’s home to the oldest continuously maintained section of the Appalachian Trail, built in 1923, and features wide stone steps and paved walkways constructed by trail crews and the Civilian Conservation Corps. For many hikers, Bear Mountain is also the site of the lowest elevation point on the AT, near the Hudson River just before the climb. From the top, you get sweeping views of the Hudson Valley, and the surrounding Bear Mountain State Park includes a lake, picnic areas, the Trailside Museum and Zoo (which the AT technically passes through), and access to nearby Perkins Memorial Tower. It’s a popular day hike, so don’t be surprised to share the trail with weekend crowds, especially in fall.
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Bear Mountain peaks at just under 1,300 feet in elevation over a 4.5-mile stretch of picturesque paved road. Although it may seem small in comparison to some of the world’s renowned climbs, it makes up for this with stunning views of the Hudson Highlands.
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Popular hiking destination not far from New York City with great views
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The unobstructed 360 views are worth the extra 70 feet up the tower when it's open
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No views here as they are blocked by the trees, but it's the tallest natural point on the mountain as the geodesic marker indicates
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A very popular hike. Bathrooms and vending machines available at the top of the climb.
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First come-first serve for this shelter. Plenty of space nearby to pitch a tent of hang a hammock if the shelter is full. Make sure to head over to the shelter as the sun sets for a great view of the New York City skyline glowing in the falling darkness.
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If the Perkins Memorial Tower is open to the public on the day of your visit be sure to climb up the tower to get a great view of both sides of the Hudson River and all the way down to New York City.
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The area around Woodbury is rich in natural beauty, particularly within the Hudson Valley. You can enjoy the scenic Hessian Lake, nestled at the base of Bear Mountain, which is perfect for picnics. For expansive vistas, the View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley from a historically significant summit on the Appalachian Trail.
Yes, the region has historical significance. The View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain is located on a summit that is part of the Appalachian Trail, featuring sections built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1923, making it a notable historical site.
The area around Woodbury is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are challenging cycling routes like the Lake Tiorati – Lake Welch Beach loop, and moderate road cycling options such as the Lake Welch Beach – Lake Tiorati loop. Mountain biking trails include the Blue Mountain Reservation Advanced Loop. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for cycling, road cycling, and MTB trails around Woodbury.
Absolutely. Both View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain and Hessian Lake are considered family-friendly. Bear Mountain State Park, which encompasses these areas, offers picnic spots and the Trailside Museum and Zoo, making it a great destination for families. Hessian Lake is particularly noted as a beautiful spot for a picnic or a walk along its banks.
Hikers have a couple of options for shelter. The West Mountain Shelter offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and surrounding hills, accommodating approximately four people inside, with additional space for tents. Another option is Big Hill, a first-come, first-served shelter on the Suffern - Bear Mt Trail, also providing tent pitching possibilities and fire rings, along with views of Manhattan.
Yes, the View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain is located on a trail that is considered dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views with your canine companion.
The Bear Mountain Bridge is significant for cyclists as it is the first and only bridge across the Hudson River north of the George Washington Bridge that accommodates them. It features broad shoulders for cyclists and a separate pedestrian lane, offering a free crossing with scenic views.
From viewpoints like the View of the Hudson River from Bear Mountain, you can expect sweeping vistas of the Hudson Valley. The West Mountain Shelter also provides unbeatable views of the river, rolling hills, and even the New York City skyline glowing in the distance at sunset.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the opportunities for outdoor recreation. The scenic views from Bear Mountain and the peaceful atmosphere of Hessian Lake are frequently highlighted. Cyclists value the accessible crossing provided by the Bear Mountain Bridge, while hikers enjoy the well-maintained trails and the convenience of shelters like West Mountain Shelter and Big Hill for breaks or overnight stays.
While the Bear Mountain Bridge offers broad shoulders for cyclists, it's noted that drivers can sometimes be reckless. For a calmer experience, you can walk your bike across the pedestrian lane, which is separated by a concrete barrier.
Yes, both the West Mountain Shelter and Big Hill offer possibilities to pitch a tent nearby if the shelters themselves are full. Big Hill also has existing fire rings for use.


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