Forget the Metro-North for a second because Circle Line just announced a dreamy new way to get upstate this spring without ever touching a train track!
The iconic cruise line is launching its first-ever Spring Bear Mountain Cruise, and it is essentially a floating brunch party that takes you straight into the heart of the Hudson Highlands.
While we usually look to the Hudson Line or the Amtrak for our Upstate escapes, this new seasonal sailing offers a way to swap the rails for the river!
Starting April 26, New Yorkers can hop on a boat at Pier 83 and spend the day sailing north to witness the Hudson Valley coming back to life in real time.
The boat ride
The journey itself is half the fun.
The eight-hour experience takes you past the Palisades, under the George Washington Bridge, and through the “fjord” section of the Hudson where the mountains start to tower over the water.
Since it’s spring, the focus is all on the “defrost.”
You can expect live music from local Alt-Country/Rock band Divining Rod and a full brunch buffet.
We’re talking chicken and waffles, French toast casserole, and fresh berries with Nutella.
To keep the spring vibes high, the bar is leaning into “Rosé all day” alongside mimosas and a build-your-own Bloody Mary station.
The Bear Mountain escape
Once the boat docks at Bear Mountain State Park, you get about two hours to explore the grounds.
While the fall version of this cruise is all about the orange leaves, the spring version is all about that “superbloom” energy.
The mountain is famous for its Mountain Laurel and wild azaleas that start to pop this time of year.
For those who want a workout, you can tackle the segment of the Appalachian Trail that leads toward the Perkins Memorial Tower for 360-degree views of the valley.
For a more relaxed afternoon, you can stroll around the perimeter of Hessian Lake or visit the Trailside Museums & Zoo to see the local wildlife, including the resident bears who should be waking up from their winter naps.
The details
For those who aren’t up for the full day hike, Circle Line is also launching a shorter, four-hour Hudson River Spring Cruise. You get all the brunch, live music, and river views without actually docking at the mountain.
Spring Bear Mountain Cruise Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, April 26 through May 25.
Hudson River Spring Cruise Dates: May 16 and 17, departing at 10 am and returning at 2 pm.
Where: Departs from Pier 83 (West 42nd Street) at 9:00 AM.
Tickets: Standard tickets are $79, while Premier tickets (which include cushioned seating and a private bar with unlimited drinks) are $129.
You can find more info and grab your tickets on the Circle Line website.
