Bear Mountain State Park Restoration

One of the most iconic landscapes in the Hudson River Valley and the oldest State park, Bear Mountain State Park is beloved by a whole range of New Yorkers – from people coming up from the city for a day trip, to locals picnicking or barbequing, to hikers passing through on the Appalachian Trail. As the park user base continues to grow and diversify, our reconstruction project will increase the accessibility and capacity so that this historic, regional park can meet contemporary needs. Renovation of the historic space will build upon three main approaches: enhance the character of the man-made landscape, expand the picnicking areas for continued usage, and create visitor-friendly wayfinding. The central axis point of the park is reorientated to the new Confluence Restroom, an anchor point surrounded by four distinct picnicking groves. These accessible lawn areas accommodate large family gatherings, giving people access to the natural beauty of the mountain while protecting the landscape. Built into the mountain is a new destination playground, featuring three levels for different ages and a miniature of the mountain’s historic observation tower. Alongside enhanced recreational features, new stormwater systems and sediment basins preserve the mountain and Hessen Lake ecologies. Native perennials enhance ecologies and integrate the recreational areas with the natural landscape.