Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Bermuda
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Egypt
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Mountain · Beacon, New York
Mount Beacon
Mountain above the city of Beacon, about 490 meters high, whose name comes from signal bonfires from the War of Independence. A steep trail climbs past the ruins of an old incline railway to viewpoints over the Hudson.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Mount Beacon
Mount Beacon has two summits, the north at about 460 meters and the south at about 490 meters, rising just behind the city on the east bank of the Hudson. The name comes from signal bonfires lit on the summit during the War of Independence to warn American troops about movements of British ships on the river.
From 1902 to 1978, a cable incline railway, the Mount Beacon Incline Railway, carried passengers up a very steep ramp to the top, where there was a hotel and a casino. The tracks, the station foundations and iron mechanisms remain and can be seen along the route.
The trail starts at the base of the mountain with about 200 steps and then a dirt-and-stone path that climbs steeply to the ruins of the upper station, with views of the river, the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge and the Hudson Highlands mountains. Continuing, you reach the south summit, where a restored fire lookout tower allows views of New York City on clear days.
The mountain is part of a protected area with other trails through the ridge.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, round trip, to the ruins of the upper station; another hour to the tower on the south summit.
Best time
From spring to fall, on dry, clear days; in mid-October the slopes are often colorful. In winter, ice and snow make the trail slippery.
How to get there
The trail begins at the Mount Beacon Park parking area on Route 9D, at the south end of town, about 2 km from the train station. There is no fee to use the trail.
Tip
Wear hiking shoes and bring water: the climb is short but steep. Arrive early on weekends, as the parking lot is small.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Beacon
Is the Mount Beacon trail difficult?
It is short but steep: it starts with about 200 steps and continues over dirt and rocks. It takes two to three hours round trip to the ruins of the old incline railway.
Can you see New York from Mount Beacon?
On very clear days, yes— from the fire lookout tower on the south summit, you can see New York City on the distant horizon.
What was the Mount Beacon incline railway?
A funicular that operated from 1902 to 1978 and carried passengers to the top of the mountain. Tracks and station ruins remain along the trail.