Bear Mountain State Park
State park · New York
The Hudson Highlands' oak and hickory forests peak in mid-to-late October. Drive or hike to Bear Mountain's summit for the view over the river's S-curve, or walk the loop around Hessian Lake under the ridgeline.
Don’t miss
Peak: October 22–October 26
Color builds from October 9 · mostly bare by November 15
Method: daily ERA5 temperatures drive a photoperiod + chilling phenology model, sampled at Bear Mountain State Park’s own coordinates and elevation (350 m) rather than a regional average. Estimates, not promises — check locally before you plan a trip around it.
Bear Mountain State Park on the map
More things to do in New York
Central Park
City parkPeak November 1
Olmsted's 843 acres turn late for the latitude, and the park's elms, maples, and oaks usually hold color into early November. The Mall's American elm cathedral and the wooded paths of the Ramble are the classic circuits.
Don’t miss: The Mall's elm canopy · The Ramble · Bow Bridge views
Prospect Park
City parkPeak November 2
Olmsted and Vaux considered Brooklyn's 526-acre park their masterpiece. The Long Meadow's tree lines, the Ravine's woodlands, and the shores of Prospect Park Lake give it some of the city's most varied late-October color.
Don’t miss: Long Meadow · The Ravine · Lullwater bridges
New York Botanical Garden
GardenPeak November 1
The Bronx's 250-acre garden wraps fall color around the Thain Family Forest, one of New York City's last stands of old-growth woodland, with maples, tulip trees, and oaks peaking from late October into November.
Don’t miss: Thain Family Forest · Azalea Garden maples
Fort Tryon Park
City parkPeak November 1
High on a ridge over the Hudson, Fort Tryon pairs foliage with river views: the Heather Garden's late perennials under turning oaks and maples, and the Cloisters framed in gold at the park's north end.
Don’t miss: Heather Garden · Hudson River overlooks · The Cloisters
Plan from a city
Frequently asked
- When does Bear Mountain State Park peak in 2026?
- Peak color is predicted for October 22–October 26 (best estimate October 24). Color starts around October 9 and is mostly bare by November 15.
- What is Bear Mountain State Park best for?
- Hudson Highlands overlooks.
- How do I get to Bear Mountain State Park?
- The closest city is New York City, about 42 mi away. It's part of New York's fall lineup.
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