Bear Mountain

Tucked into the rugged northwest corner of Connecticut, Bear Mountain rises proudly above the rolling terrain of Litchfield County. As the state’s highest peak, it draws hikers from all over New England to test their endurance, soak in the raw natural beauty, and walk a stretch of the legendary Appalachian Trail. With multiple routes offering different perspectives and challenges, Bear Mountain delivers a satisfying blend of adventure, history, and panoramic reward.

The Summit of Connecticut

Standing at 2,354 feet, Bear Mountain is the crown of Connecticut’s hiking landscape. Located within Mount Riga State Park, this granite beast forms part of the Appalachian Trail and offers a physically rewarding experience paired with unforgettable scenery. From early spring through late fall, hikers arrive to navigate its rocky paths and forested ridgelines.

Although it’s not the highest point in the state by elevation alone (that title belongs to the southern slope of Massachusetts’ Mount Frissell), Bear Mountain claims the highest peak wholly within Connecticut. And for those who ascend it, there’s no debating its commanding presence.

Three Routes to the Top

Hikers can choose from three primary trails to the summit, each offering its own rhythm and scenery. Whether you’re looking for a demanding loop or a shorter, brisk ascent, Bear Mountain has a route to suit your hiking style.

1. Bear Mountain Trail Loop

• Length: 6.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,693 feet
• Time Required: 3.5 to 4 hours
• Trailhead: Route 41/Under Mountain Road (42.02876, -73.42887)
• Dog-Friendly: Yes

This is the most popular route and begins in Salisbury with a modest parking area along Under Mountain Road. The path wastes no time in rising quickly, gaining more than 700 feet of elevation in the first mile. At the loop junction, turning clockwise sets you up for a demanding rock scramble after reaching the summit, while the counterclockwise route offers a gentler descent.

The trail intersects the Appalachian Trail, guiding you to the rocky summit where an old stone marker commemorates a now-collapsed 19th-century tower. Panoramic views stretch across the Berkshires and down into the valleys of Litchfield County. It’s a worthy climb, but hikers should be prepared for uneven footing and a strenuous descent if traveling clockwise. The final stretch winds through peaceful woods before reconnecting with the initial trail, bringing you full circle.

2. Mount Washington Forest Loop (Massachusetts Side)

• Length: 2.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 574 feet
• Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Trailhead: East Street/Mount Washington Road (42.04936, -73.4671)
• Dog-Friendly: Yes

For those short on time or looking for a less intense climb, this loop begins in Massachusetts and makes use of an Appalachian Trail connector that weaves past a bubbling brook and the AMC Northwest Camp. After 0.7 miles, the trail meets the AT, where a sharp climb begins. The path rises steadily through a mix of forest and rock, cresting at Bear Mountain’s summit.

The descent follows the Appalachian Trail before branching off onto Bear Mountain Road, a wide and level route that loops back toward the starting point. While shorter and less demanding, this route still includes a brief scramble and is best suited for those with a reliable sense of footing.

Note: East Street is not maintained in winter. Snowfall often blocks the Connecticut approach, requiring access via Massachusetts.

3. Sage’s Ravine and Bear Mountain Loop

• Length: 4.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,138 feet
• Time Required: 3 to 3.5 hours
• Trailhead: East Street/Mount Washington Road (same as above)
• Dog-Friendly: Yes

This moderate loop offers a unique blend of rugged elevation and tranquil forest. Beginning from the same parking area as Route 2, this path includes a descent into the lush world of Sage’s Ravine, home to a series of cascading waterfalls tucked among moss-covered boulders and towering trees.

After exploring the ravine, hikers head back up to the Appalachian Trail, tackling a short but challenging ascent to Bear Mountain’s summit. It’s a trail that offers more variety than either of the others, with a balance of serene woodland and exhilarating rock climbs.

What to Expect on the Trail

Bear Mountain’s terrain is no walk in the park. Trails are rocky and narrow in sections, and the descents, especially after wet weather, can be slippery. Hikers are urged to wear sturdy footwear and consider trekking poles for stability, particularly on the longer loop where the descent features a steep scramble.

While the peak is accessible year-round, trail conditions change dramatically with the seasons. Spring wildflowers brighten the paths, summer offers cool shade under thick canopies, and autumn blankets the landscape in color. Winter hikes, though peaceful and crowd-free, come with the challenge of snow, ice, and limited trailhead access.

Planning Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: March through November
• Parking: Trailheads have small lots. On busy weekends, overflow parking is available along Under Mountain Road
• Facilities: Bathrooms are available at the main trailhead
• Crowds: Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays

Hikers should also keep an eye out for wildlife and fellow travelers along the Appalachian Trail. Through-hikers often cross paths with day hikers, sharing stories and trail wisdom beneath the trees.

Final Notes

Climbing Bear Mountain isn’t just about standing atop Connecticut’s highest point. It’s a journey through the dense hardwood forests and granite ridges that define New England hiking. The trails are tough, the views sweeping, and the effort is always rewarded. Whether you take the long loop from Salisbury, the gentler Massachusetts trail, or the waterfall-laced route through Sage’s Ravine, the peak always delivers a sense of triumph, solitude, and connection to the land.