Popolopen Torne

Anthony's Nose and the Bear Mountain Bridge

Looking south down the Hudson

Lots of Revolutionary history in the area

The 1777/1779 trail

The trail inside the gorge.  Irene knocked out the bridge ahead.

More of the splendid Hudson

Some nice slabs of rock

Looking west into Harriman

Another shot of the Bear Mountain Bridge

This bridge was built specifically for easier access to Bear Mountain  State Park

I wanted to cross, but the MC wasn't here to help me build a bridge across

The Indians seem to always have the better names.  Maybe we need to stop naming shit after people.

When I started this blog I mostly did so out of regret for not documenting my previous wilderness experiences. Then having realized most of my Hudson Valley hikes were primarily in the Catskills, I used the blog as an excuse to check out other areas like the Gunks, Harriman and the Hudson Highlands, etc.  I have not been disappointed with the places I've been to.  Today especially, did not disappoint.

There are some trails just north of Bear Mountain that lead to Popolopen Torne from Fort Montgomery.  The trail heading up through a gorge was not entirely enjoyable.  Many road crossings through suburbia.  But once finally away from that, the trail leads to the summit with dramatic views of the area.  The best view is of the Hudson River and the Bear Mountain Bridge.  Just absolutely stunning.  The summit was a wonderful mix of beautiful slabs of rock and miniature pine trees.  Many times when I'm out I am gripped with thoughts of wanting to stay here forever.  I had those thoughts here.