Near Bear Mountain
Lower Viewpoint about 0.2 mi from the peak.
Near Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain Peak
Near Bear Mountain
View from the peak of Bear Mountain on a beautiful day!
Near Bear Mountain
Trail Sign
Near Bear Mountain
Enjoying the views

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Route

Bear Mountain

4.6 (11 Ratings)
A rigorous climb to highest peak in Connecticut--Bear Mountain!
5.2
mi
Distance
1,560
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingCommonly BackpackedFall ColorsFamily FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.23mi
Distance
1,560ft
Elevation Gain
1,560ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
2,319ft
High Point
757ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This is a very heavily trafficked trail that leads to summit of Bear Mountain, the highest peak in CT... yet not the highest spot in the state. The southern slope of Mt Frissel (a peak in MA) is slightly higher and holds that distinction. Traveling south on Route 41, there is parking about 1.5 miles on your right. The trailhead is clearly marked. From the trailhead, hop on the Under Mountain Trail and follow it as it ascends, crossing a few streams in the process. You'll pass Paradise Lane campground and trailhead which make a loop possible. Take a right once you reach AT. Scramble over the rocks and enjoy the many views, and soon you'll have reached a large flattened pyramid that marks the summit. Climb up and enjoy the view!

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Lion's Head

Hike Route

Lion's Head

Views
easy
1.09 mi
+571 ft
CT State Highpoint/Tri-point Out and Back

Hike Route

CT State Highpoint/Tri-point Out and Back

Geologically Significant
strenuous
3.06 mi
+1,155 ft
Brace Mountain Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Brace Mountain Out-and-Back

Birding
strenuous
3.67 mi
+1,506 ft
Race Brook Falls

Hike Route

Race Brook Falls

River/Creek
strenuous
4.53 mi
+1,534 ft
Rand's View Out and Back

Hike Route

Rand's View Out and Back

Fall Colors
strenuous
5.25 mi
+1,201 ft
Sunset Rock

Hike Route

Sunset Rock

Dogs Allowed
moderate
3.66 mi
+1,106 ft
Contributors
Dave Gomula