The Legacy At Bear Tree
The Story of the Lyons Family Stewardship
Long before Bear Tree became a haven for travelers seeking pristine waters and untouched wilderness, the shores of First Connecticut Lake held a quiet magic. The Lyons family first arrived in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, not merely as visitors, but as stewards drawn to the rugged beauty of the Great North Woods. What began as a deep personal love for this northern frontier grew into a multi-generational commitment to hospitality, conservation, and community.
A Storied Landmark:
The History of The Glen
Central to the heritage of Bear Tree is The Glen, an iconic cornerstone of New Hampshire sporting tradition. Established in the late 1800s, The Glen originated as a classic North Country sporting retreat, catering to anglers, hunters, and adventurers drawn to the remote wilderness surrounding First Connecticut Lake. For over five decades (51 years), The Glen was owned and operated by Betty Mae Falton. Under her watchful care, The Glen became legendary across the region for hearty family-style meals, warmth, and genuine North Country hospitality. Generations of sportsmen and summer visitors considered it their second home. In October 2012, John and Georgie Lyons acquired The Glen, integrating the historic resort into the Bear Tree family. Recognizing its rich past, the Lyons family embarked on a thoughtful restoration—rebuilding and renovating the historic Glen Lodge and seven shoreline cabins to provide modern comforts while carefully honoring its original rustic character and storied roots.
Building the Bear Tree Destination
Beyond The Glen, the Lyons family shaped Bear Tree into an expansive sanctuary where families could disconnect from modern noise and reconnect with nature. From The Glen and The Inn to secluded woodland retreats, every cabin and gathering space was designed to celebrate traditional sporting heritage with warm, rustic elegance. Care was taken to maintain undisturbed shorelines, protect native wildlife corridors, and preserve the tranquil, starlit dark skies that define northern New Hampshire. Continuing the standard set by legendary hosts before them, the Lyons family built a reputation for genuine care, ensuring guests arrive as visitors and return as family.
Traditions Passed Down
Across four seasons, the Lyons family and Bear Tree anchor the authentic Great North Woods experience:
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Spring: Welcoming anglers chasing trophy landlocked salmon and brook trout at ice-out on First Connecticut Lake.
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Summer: Guiding generations swimming off the docks, paddling glassy bays, and sharing stories by the evening campfire.
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Autumn: Celebrating the vivid tapestry of mountain foliage, crisp woods, and long-standing sporting traditions.
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Winter: Providing a warm refuge with crackling hearths in the snowmobile capital of New England, steps from the legendary Ridge Runners trail system, and snowshoe trails to enjoy nature in peace.
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All Seasons: Exploring the surrounding area, taking rides, and searching for wildlife.
The Legacy Lives On
Today, the spirit of the Lyons family and the historic legacy of The Glen remain woven into every hand-hewn timber, lakeside sunset, and gathering around the table. Bear Tree stands as a living testament to what happens when timeless tradition meets deep reverence for the wild—a refuge where memories are made, traditions endure, and the peace of the North Woods remains evergreen.
Dan, Colleen, Matt, and Kaitlin welcome you to experience
Bear Tree!