Visiting Bear Mountain State Park in the Fall

Growing up, my favorite time of year was always summer. The hot weather meant long breaks from school, spending time at the beach, going to amusement parks, and having lots of fun.

Bear Mountain State Park, located in Rockland County, New York, is full of childhood memories. There are a variety of activities the park has to offer. For example, boating, hiking, and swimming, to name a few. As a child, I took trips to the park and participated in the activities that represented the summer mood. Those days were full of fun and laughter, and I had not a care in the world.

Last week, I visited Bear Mountain for the first time in many years. As I walked the path along Hessen Lake, I saw signs indicating that summer was no longer here; the cool breeze blowing through my hair, red and orange-hued leaves swaying from the trees, and patches of brown and yellow scattered throughout the mountain brush across the cold water.

I sat on the bench in front of the lake, reflecting on the childhood memories of my summers in the park. Those were fun times. However, as I viewed the colorful landscape in front of me, I realized how beautiful the fall could be. What a pleasant change of scenery! Change can be good.