Bear Mountain Loop

 

Bear Mountain is located in the Cranberry Lake State Campground and the trail was constructed to create a wonderful 5.5 mile loop or a 4.5 mile two-car traverse. The trail climbs moderate up and over the wooded summit of Bear with some interesting erratics to climb along the ridge. T

 

he viewing platform is located on the south end ofthe mountain and overlooks the magestic Cranberry Lake.

 

The trail brings you a bit further within the campground, but if you are stayingthere it’s a perfect loop to and from your campsite.

 

Trailhead Location:

 

From the intersection of Route 3 and Lone Pine Road in Cranberry Lake, follow Lone Pine Road to the end at the Cranberry Lake State Campground. There will be a day use fee involved for this hike. The main trailhead is about a quarter mile in from the gate. The secondary trailhead is a bit further within the campground.  

 

 

 

Trail uses:Snowshoe, Hike

 

 

 

 

Bear Mountain from NYS HWY 3

 

This alternate route will bring you along The

"BurntBridge Pond Trail"

for the first portion of the journey, until it to connects you with the State Campground Trail up Bear Mountain. This adds 3.6 miles to your one-way trip but gives you an excellent walk in the woods and will extend your day if you prefer a bit of a longer, scenic route.

 

The first portion is flat and wide and will bring you to the Bear Mountain Trail in just under 1.5-miles. The Bear Mountain Trail which is part of the

"Cranberry 50" ,

is a very scenic hike and will deliver you through a portion of Bear Mountain Swamp, where the autumn colors are superb. This 2.2 mile section of trail will bring you roughly 0.25 miles up the Bear Mountain that leads from the State Campground.  

 

 

Trailhead Location:

 

Locate the BurntBridge Pond Trailhead just east of Cranberry Lake along NYS Route 3, Follow until it meets the Bear Mountain Trail. Then follow the Bear Mountain Trail.

 

 

 

Trail uses: Snowshoe, Hike, XC Ski (to campground trail only)