Bear Mountain - Connecticut’s Highest Peak
Located in the northwestern corner of the state, Bear Mountain, elevation 2,316 feet, is the highest peak in Connecticut. Don’t be misled by guidebooks claiming that Mount Frissell is the state “highpoint.” The summit of Frissell is actually in Massachusetts a few miles north of Bear Mountain. Part of the lower slope of Frissell is in Connecticut and a few feet higher than the Bear Mountain summit. If you want a real mountain hike in Connecticut rather than a stroll up the slope of a Massachusetts’ peak, Bear Mountain is the right choice. The Appalachian Trail traverses the summit where Owen Mason built a stone-pyramid summit marker in 1885 proclaiming, “This monument marks the highest ground in Connecticut 2,334 feet above sea, built AD 1885 Owen Travis Mason.” Owen didn’t have it precisely correct but he was close and had the right idea. Obtain a copy of our book, Mountains for Mortals - New England, which provides details on the best side trail to access the Appalachian Trail and hike to the summit. On the exposed ridge, enjoy exceptional views of the Berkshire Mountains of Connecticut and Massachusetts and the Catskills of New York. You may even catch a glimpse of that boring section of Mount Frissell that claims highpoint status. Vist our website, www.ronchaseoutdoors.com, for information on more outdoor adventures in New England and beyond.