Bear Run

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Round Trip
4.5 miles
7.2 kilometers

Elevation
The height of the summit or destination, from sea level.
2650 feet
807.7 meters

Elevation Gain
The total amount of vertical ascent (uphill climbing) on a hike. This is cumulative gain, totalling the elevation change of the uphill segments from a round-trip hike.
1350 feet
411.5 meters

Route Type
A hiking trail may be classified as a Loop, Out and Back, Point to Point, Bushwhack, or Multi-day Thru Hike, with some destinations having more than one of these ways as a hiking option.
  • Out and Back
Round Trip
4.5 miles
7.2 kilometers

Route Type
A hiking trail may be classified as a Loop, Out and Back, Point to Point, Bushwhack, or Multi-day Thru Hike, with some destinations having more than one of these ways as a hiking option
  • Out and Back
Elevation
The height of the summit or destination, from sea level.
2650 feet
807.7 meters

Elevation Gain
The total amount of vertical ascent (uphill climbing) on a hike. This is cumulative gain, totalling the elevation change of the uphill segments from a round-trip hike.
1350 feet
411.5 meters

Round Trip
4.5 miles
7.2 kilometers

Route Type
A hiking trail may be classified as a Loop, Out and Back, Point to Point, Bushwhack, or Multi-day Thru Hike, with some destinations having more than one of these ways as a hiking option
  • Out and Back
Elevation
The total amount of vertical ascent (uphill climbing) on a hike. This is cumulative gain, totalling the elevation change of the uphill segments from a round-trip hike.
2650 feet
807.7 meters

Elevation Gain
The total amount of vertical ascent (uphill climbing) on a hike. This is cumulative gain, totalling the elevation change of the uphill segments from a round-trip hike.
1350 feet
411.5 meters

A view from a small rocky opening
A view from a small rocky opening
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trail highlights
trail features
trail category
Lakes/Ponds
Waterfall
Bridge
Road Walk
Trail Junctions
Short

This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 - October 31. Although it is called a “parking reservation,” everyone will need a reservation to access hikes leaving from AMR, whether you drove yourself, rode a bike, got dropped-off, or walked. These reservations can be made online via the AMR website. For more information, please read these FAQs or contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Bear Run is a narrow rock cut into the side of the Great Range. The trail passes through the rocky shoot and up to a nice overlook.

Key takeaways

  • Distance: 0.5 miles round trip, spur trail only (4.5 miles and 1,350 feet of elevatin gain round trip from the parking area)
  • Elevation gain: Roughly 300 feet, spur trail only
  • Hike includes trail junctions, bridges, and a road walk

Hiking to Bear Run

Bear Run is a short spur trail off the Cathedral Rock Loop Trail, please see Cathedral Rock and Pyramid Falls for more information on this trail. 1.6 miles from Lake Road along the Cathedral Rock Trail lies this fun and exciting short spur trail. A small pool rests at the intersection and you will follow a tall sheer cliff toward Bear Run. Be very careful as you climb and descend this rocky section, it can be slippery and is quite steep. 

Bear Run in the winter

The parking area is open in the winter (no reservation required). You will want to bring microspikes for the upper parts of this hike, and be prepared to break trail as this is not commonly snowshoed. Be prepared for all winter conditions.

Find your perfect trail near Keene Valley

Does Mount Marcy sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? No need to stress, with over 2000 miles of hiking trails in the Adirondacks we are sure we can find the perfect hike for you. 

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 73 and Route 86 in Lake Placid follow Route 73 toward Keene. Drive through Keene and Keene Valley and Into St. Huberts. Locate the High Peaks Trailhead for the AMR on the right and park here.  

Emergency Information
If you get lost or injured, remain calm and stay put. If you have cell service, call 911 or the DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch, 833-NYS-RANGERS (833-697-7264).
 
Plan ahead and hike smart. Bring a map, extra food, water, and warm clothing, and check the weather before you go. Stay aware of your surroundings and landmarks. If you get turned around, don’t panic—stop, think, and stay where you are. Let someone know your route and expected return time.
Details
Address: 
  • Route 73 , Keene, NY  12942
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    Additional Info
     Bear Run trail map