Beacon Mountain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Beacon Mountain |
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North and South Beacon Mountain
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | North: 1,531 feet (467 m); South: 1,610 feet (491 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Fishkill, New York, U.S. |
| Parent range | Hudson Highlands |
| Topo map | USGS West Point |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | hike |
Beacon Mountain, also known as Mount Beacon, is a tall mountain in the Hudson Highlands. It is located south of the City of Beacon in New York State. This mountain has two main tops, called summits. You can easily see them from the Hudson River and nearby towns like Newburgh.
The northern summit is 1,531 feet (467 meters) high. It has many radio antennas on its top. The southern summit is even taller at 1,610 feet (491 meters). This peak has a special fire lookout tower.
Beacon Reservoir is the city's main water source. It sits between North Beacon and Scofield Ridge. Much of the land on the mountains is owned by the city. This helps protect the water supply area. Because of this, there are many roads and trails. This makes Beacon Mountain a great place for hiking. From both summits, you can see amazing views of the mid-Hudson region. On clear days, you might even see New York City from the fire tower!
Mountain History
Beacon Mountain has a rich history. The northern peak once had a ski area. You can still see parts of the old ski trails today. There was also a special train called the Mount Beacon Incline Railway. This train carried people up the mountain. It stopped running in 1978. But it is now a historic landmark. You can still see its tracks going up the mountain. It's a steep climb if you follow them! In the past, this summit also had a restaurant, a casino, and a hotel.
The mountains were very important during the American Revolution. They offered a perfect view of West Point and the Hudson River. Signal fires were lit on the mountain. These fires warned people about approaching enemies. This is how the mountain and the nearby city got their name, "Beacon." In 1901, a group called the Daughters of the American Revolution put up a monument. It marks where the first signal fire was lit. This monument is near the top of North Beacon.
How to Explore the Mountain
There are several ways to reach the top of Beacon Mountain. The easiest way is a dirt road. City workers use it for maintenance. However, regular cars are not allowed on this road. You might get a ticket if you drive on it.
Hiking Trails
- Fishkill Ridge Trail: This trail starts at Pocket Road on the west side of Beacon. It has white markers. You can follow it for about a mile. It leads to the reservoir road.
- Wilkinson Memorial Trail: From the reservoir road, you can find this trail. It has yellow markers. This trail will take you to the southern summit. You can also start the Wilkinson Trail from NY 9D to the south. Or you can start it near US 9 in Putnam County. These routes are longer and take more time.
Mount Beacon Park
You can also start your hike from "Mount Beacon Park." This park is in the City of Beacon. The parking area is at the corner of Route 9D and Howland Avenue. It is across from Bob's Corner Store. This park is part of the Scenic Hudson organization.
Walk about a quarter-mile up the trail. You will see parts of the old train tracks. Then, you will find about 200 strong steps. These steps take you higher up the mountain. After the steps, you will find steep gravel and dirt trails. Even from this lower point, you can get a great view of the river. The view is especially clear when the leaves have fallen from the trees.
