I have always enjoyed getting out and exploring. Bear Mountain has always been on my list of state parks that I have wanted to visit. I’ve heard it’s beautiful and it’s a pretty short drive from where I am. I know many people that have taken trips there so I think it was just about time that I make the trip myself. Since my birthday was coming up I was trying to figure out what I would want to do for my day. Although 2021 looks better than 2020 did when it comes to celebrations, it was still something to consider.

With it being Spring and the weather getting nicer, something outdoors sounded like a good choice. I was scrolling Instagram and came across some park, and the idea hit me! I wanted to spend the day at Bear Mountain!

I arrived to the grounds on the most beautiful day… low 70s, sunny with a slight breeze. Unfortunately, just because it is officially Spring does not mean that everything will be in full bloom and thriving. I would’ve loved to walk the trail with blossomed flowers and fresh leaves on trees. The picture above is our view of Bear Mountain as I started making my way to the trails. I have to say, it looks pretty depressing… luckily, the view from up there was a lot nicer, while taking the hike and looking out from the mountain.

I got there around 10:30am, which was perfect because not too many people had arrived yet. I gathered everything together that was needed for the hike and made my way over!

Before taking the hike, I came across a wide open lake that I sat at for a few minutes. A nice breather before what was to come on the long journey up the mountain! There was a spot off to the side with many pedal boats that you could probably rent once the weather gets even warmer. Once I began heading up the mountain, I walked up the closest trail. I’m pretty sure that I picked the Loop Trail. Which at the time I didn’t know, this is actually one of the longest trails at Bear Mountain, which is also supposed to be one of the hardest!

This trail is one of the most popular among Bear Mountain’s visitors. Like I mentioned, when first arriving there were not many others there. As time passed, I could tell this was a highly trafficked trail. And with more time passing, I realized it must’ve been a hard one considering many people would go up and come back down as I was still making my way up. Each person/group I spoke with admitted they didn’t make it to the top!

I made it to the first overlook point, where everyone stops to glance at the scenery and take a breath. I sat for a few minutes and took some pictures. This was the best picture that I have of the view itself. From this point, I made my way back down the mountain. I can also admit that I was one of the many groups that made their way back down before reaching the top, not on my own accord though. Considering Bear Mountain is a short drive away I can always come back. Whether I tried at this trail again or any of the others, I would absolutely visit again!

Once I got back down, I made my way to the Inn. To my surprise, this was actually a hotel that you could stay at! I went to the bathroom and checked out the gift shop! If there is anything that I do not need more of, that is t-shirts and mugs… and what did I get from the gift shop you’re wondering? A t-shirt AND a mug… I regret nothing 🙂 .

Once I finished up in there, I made my way back to the car. I actually wanted to get a few more pictures before heading out so I made my way over to the huge lawn that welcomed us to Bear Mountain. I got the last few pictures I wanted and took it all in. The wonderful weather, the earthy atmosphere, everything was just so perfect!

If you follow me on Instagram, if not you should 😉 , you know that I post at least once a month with BANGS Shoes. As an ambassador, they do a fun monthly photo op with a theme called BANGS Blitz. The theme for April was Explore Everyday so obviously I was going to take full advantage of this opportunity! This might actually be my favorite #BANGSblitz that has been captured so far.

I wish I had the chance to explore a bit more but there is always next time. I already cannot wait to go back and check out all the other trails that this mountain has to offer! What is your favorite state or national park that you have visited?

See ya,
Samm 🌻