Backpacking New York

Mexico trip on Memorial

\*\*\*PLEASE READ THE DESCRIPTION\*\*\* Dear vertebrates at this time we will spend the holidays in the "Land of Mariachi" to walk and hike through the sacred Mayan and Aztec trails. This is a **6-days, 7-nights** trip, but you can **join us at any time**. We will visit Mexico City, Puebla, Yucatan and many other places. At the end of the trip we will see one of the New 7 Wonders of the World - Chichen Itza. Start date: May 22 Finish day: May 29 **\*\*Preliminary plan\*\*** May 22 - Evening flight to Mexico city May 23 - Visiting Capital's attractions and Pyramid of the Sun May 24 - Visiting Tula and San Pedro Cholula May 25 - Visiting Chalcatzingo and other attractions May 25 - Evening flight to Cancun May 26 - Visiting Riviera Maya and Coba Pyramid May 27 - Visiting Merida May 28 - Visiting Chichen Itza May 29 - Flight from Cancun to US \*\*\*\* TIPS \*\*\*\* Please be ready to **wake up at 6-7 AM** and **walk 12-15 miles** every day. We are not a travel agency and you will have to pay for your own travel, however we can help you with advice on flights and accommodation. We highly recommend booking your tickets and hotels ahead of time. Budget is limited by the comfort level you need. If you would like to share the hotel booking please don't forget to collect/transfer the money in advance (we suggest you meet in person beforehand). Organizers are not liable for any damages so please take this into account before you transfer money to someone. We might use local tour guides in some areas. Our FB group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/567293385132145](https://www.facebook.com/groups/567293385132145) Our meetup group: [https://meetu.ps/c/4ZjSr/LdM6k/d](https://meetu.ps/c/4ZjSr/LdM6k/d) **Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DpGLU7ot7LeLdfLMlb5u89?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DpGLU7ot7LeLdfLMlb5u89?mode=gi_t)** Telegram: [https://t.me/neverwinterfree](https://t.me/neverwinterfree) **Please apply via:** Wechat: cozmo31 IG: neverwinter_free_parties LINE: cozmo31 [www.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=286948809](http://www.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=286948809) We have WhatsApp group to coordinate this event (please ask organizer) Disclaimer of liability: By participating in this activity you agree that organizers are not to be held responsible for any damages, injuries, or losses that may occur before, during or after the event.

Journey to Bannerman Island, Cold Springs & Dinner Buffet @ La Terrazza

One of the Jewels of Hudson to do along the Hudson River is visit Pollepel Island, a tiny jewel abandoned in the setting of the Hudson Highlands. Bannerman Castle, is an iconic Hudson River. Millionaire Francis Bannerman bought Pollepel Island in 1900 and started building a storehouse for his Military munitions. He personally designed to resemble a Scottish castle, now known as Bannerman Castle. ITs an uninhabited place, accessible only by boat, it was considered haunted by some Indian tribes and thus became a refuge for those trying to escape them. These superstitions and others promoted by later Dutch sailors make for many fanciful tales. Even the name Pollepel (Polopel) originated with a legend about a young girl named (Polly) Pell who was romantically rescued from the breaking river ice and landed on the island shore, where she was promptly married to her sweetheart, who rescued her and her companion. The island was thereafter called Pollepel. 1st Cold Springs (Time to Explore eat and Shop 2nd Bannerman Island Cruise Tour w Guides. 3rd Dinner Buffet @ La Terrazza (Taxes and Tips Included) $159.00pp Bus Departs: 10:00am from Whole Foods Paramus We only have 40 spaces on the Boat. $159.00pp Payments to Save Your Seat here: Venmo: @robert-gilligan-3 Zelle. ROBBGILL@YAHOO.COM CREDIT CARD HERE. [Gilligan's Adventures | International Travel & Local Tours](https://www.gilligansadventures.com/) Thank you, Robert Questions? Robbgill@yahoo.com

Yoga + Hike: Blue Trail to Shorakkopoch Rock

Attention: Please register on the AMC website. MeetUp is not used for trip registration. https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000019DNF/act00021205 Join us for an energizing and grounding morning of Mindful Hiking and Outdoor Yoga at Inwood Hill Park, home to the only remaining primeval forest in Manhattan! This 5-mile hike focuses on meditation, breathing, and connecting with your body. We will hike along the scenic Blue Trail, enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River, and then flow through a 30-minute easy-standing yoga session next to the historic Shorakkopoch Rock. Whether you are a seasoned hiker, a dedicated yogi, or a complete beginner looking to make new friends, everyone is welcome! Location: 65 Payson Ave, New York, NY 10034 You can take the A train to Dyckman St, walk 3 minutes, and we will meet there. Please bring: \- Plenty of water \(recommended: at least 2–3 liters\) \- Lunch and snacks \- Sun protection \(hat\, sunscreen\, sunglasses\) \- Bug spray/insect repellent

Learn River Canoeing, Solo or Tandem, in Lehighton, PA

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000014M6D2AU/act00019921)** Note: Registration for canoe instructional weekend closes Jun 5. Interested applicants must go to AMC NY NoJ link above to apply for the Moving Water Instructional. Joining trip via Meetup site will not register individuals for the event. Description: **One weekend of instruction, practice and feedback by a team with trained canoe teachers. Learn the strokes and maneuvers to safely and adventurously enjoy canoeing in fast or slow moving creeks and rivers.** **Opportunity to join us for follow-up trips to occur in PA, MA, NJ and NY.** **Learn the terminology and practice strokes & techniques for:** **Stopping** **Ferries** **Eddy turns** **Peel outs** **River reading** **Learn basic swiftwater safety:** **Self-rescue** **Safety gear & use** **River hazards** **Course includes camping fees & breakfasts/dinners for the weekend, plus free boat rental all season for AMC trips. Members price extends to current KCCNY & AMC members. Returning students upgrading their skills attend at half price. Teens welcomed if accompanied by a participating parent or legal guardian also attending as a student.** **For those registering for Solo Canoe instruction, we require some paddling experience plus instructor approval. For those registering for Tandem Canoe instruction, no prior experience needed. You can let leaders know if you are interested in solo or tandem canoe instruction in a message or after application submittal and subsequent vetting discussion. Must be able to lift 35-55 pound boats with some help. Must be comfortable swimming in deep, moving water while wearing a personal flotation device. Must be able to sit in a boat for several hours at a time.** **All days of the weekend of instruction are essential and required. Apply here. Those approved will be registered . Classes fill fast.** **Friends or family might opt to take this similar course as kayakers, since we share the location, date and camping fun. Students arrange their own car pools to pick up boats & gear at barn, where we fit you for equipment and give crucial guidance on how to safely car top a boat.** **Questions welcomed. Please email canoe instructors Chris Viani / cwviani@gmail.com (solo) or please text to Charles Michener / cell: 917-370-1591 (tandem) with questions or concerns.** **If you cannot attend for any reason, please cancel online and contact the leader as soon as possible in order to make your space available to others.** **Cancellations up to June 5, 2026 will be fully refunded. There are no refunds for cancellations after June 5, 2026** **Costs** **150.00 USD - New Student, Member Rate - Includes camping fees, rentals, some meals, instruction. AMC member rate is extended to current AMC and KCCNY members.** **180.00 USD - New Student, Non-member Rate - Includes camping fees, rentals, some meals, instruction.** **75.00 USD - Returning Student, Member Rate - Includes camping fees, rentals, some meals, instruction. AMC member rate is extended to current AMC and KCCNY members.** **90.00 USD - Returning Student, Non-member Rate - Includes camping fees, rentals, some meals, instruction.)**

South Mountain Crest Trail

Let's Walk!! in South Mountain and visit Washington Rock and traverse a few of the many trails in the Reservation. Washington Rock is Essex County Park System's bona fide Revolutionary War historic site, dating back to the late 1700's when Beacon Signal Station 9 was located here—one of 23 beacons built by General Washington to observe British troop movements quartered on Staten Island and New York City. Seems like a great place to remember the nation's 250th birthday This hike will be about 3-3.5 miles and mostly flat. The terrain is mostly dirt trails in the woods, so please wear sturdy hiking boots. **Bug spray and protective clothing is a good idea.** Please arrive a few minutes early. We start promptly at the time posted. The hike should take us 60-90 minutes. **Please remember to bring water!** Inclement weather may cancel this event. Please check the event page for comments prior to leaving for the meetup. **Disclaimer:** If you join this event, please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. *photo by Angel Madison*

Catskill Backpack - Windham & Blackheads

In order to officially secure your spot on this event and to receive the details email of where to exactly park and meet with us you must register on our site by clicking the link below. https://www.trailboundproject.com/service-page/catskill-backpack-windham-blackheads?referral=service_list_widget Our events typically fill up at 16 people for guided backpacking trips! You won't see the attendees here on meetup as registrations are on our site but we wanted to let you know that we typically see large outings for all of our events! Windham & Blackhead mark the first step in our Advanced Catskill Backpacking Series — built specifically for TrailBounders who have already completed prior backpacking trips and are ready to increase both physical and technical demand. For those on their Catskill 3500 quest, we will be summiting Windham High Peak, Blackhead, Black Dome, and Thomas Cole. Because we're backpacking from Windham, we'll also be summiting Burnt Knob and Acra Point, both part of The Catskill 67, and a rare treat on one of the most beautiful routes in the Catskills. This weekend introduces sustained climbing, longer ridge travel, and stronger cumulative elevation gain than our intro-level trips. The terrain is classic Catskills: rugged, steady, and honest. Unlike our beginner overnights, this trip focuses less on foundational instruction and more on refinement: • Moving efficiently with a loaded pack over more challenging terrain • Managing elevation gain over extended days • Strategic pacing and self-care • Advanced campsite decision-making This is the most approachable weekend in the four-trip Advanced Catskill Backpacking Series — but it is still a demanding mountain experience. Day 1 - 1.5 miles, 575' up, 0' down - setting up camp after sunset Day 2 - 7 miles, 1,950' up, 1,550' down Day 3 - 6 miles, 2,125' up, 2,750' down Participants should: • Be comfortable carrying a multi-day pack • Have prior TrailBound backpacking experience • Be prepared for consistent elevation gain This is not about learning how to backpack. It’s about becoming stronger at it. Small group. Real mountains. Real progression. Prerequisites: TBP Backpacking Intro, Easy, and Moderate trips, or equivalent. Email info@trailboundproject.com to discuss equivalents for approval. Minimum Gear: 50-70 liter backpack, shelter (tent, tarp shelter, bivy, or hammock), sleeping bag, sleeping pad, small pillow, lighter, water bottles or bladder for 4-5 liters of water, water filter, small knife, 75’ paracord, cell phone with USB charger & cable, headlamp & extra batteries, canister stove & fuel, cooking pot, utensils, food & snacks, bear hang food bag, first aid kit, personal toiletries, clothing for the weather, & hiking boots. A detailed packing list will be emailed to students after registration and you can contact us with any questions. Minimum Age: 12 years old - the minor(s) and a parent/guardian must all be paid registered participants.

Hudson Gives Back

Join us for the upcoming Hudson County Community Initiative, a day dedicated to volunteering, empowering, and transforming our neighborhoods through unity and service. Together, community members, families, and local volunteers will come together to support positive change, strengthen connections, and help create a cleaner, safer, and brighter future for Hudson County. This event is more than volunteering — it is about building pride in our community, uplifting one another, and showing the power of teamwork when people come together with one mission: creating a better community for future generations. From community support activities to neighborhood improvement efforts, every contribution will make a meaningful impact. We are also looking to build stronger connections throughout the community. If you are part of an organization, collective, local group, or know of any organization interested in collaborating with us, we would love to connect and work together. Anyone interested in leading a volunteering initiative, community activity, or bringing new ideas to help our neighborhoods is always welcome. We believe real change happens when communities come together with creativity, leadership, and shared purpose. We proudly thank every volunteer and supporter who will be part of this initiative. Your time, energy, and dedication help make Hudson County stronger. We love our community, and together, we continue building a brighter future for all.

Learn to Thru-Hike (6/5-7)

**[BOOK HERE](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/collections/all-guided-outdoor-adventures/products/learn-to-thru-hike-6-5-7)** ### **Learn to Thru-Hike: A Backcountry Masterclass** **Master the art of long-distance hiking through a hands-on, immersive Catskills experience**. ### Adventure Snapshot 🥾 Activity: Backpacking expedition, skills training & backcountry curriculum ⏱️ Duration: 3 days / 2 nights 🥾 Distance: Varies based on route; multi-day hiking with a weighted pack ⛰️ Elevation: Moderate, varied terrain 🧭 Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate — no prior backpacking experience required 📍 Location: Catskill Mountains, NY 👥 Group Size: Small group experience Have you ever dreamed of tackling the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, or simply disappearing into the wilderness for a week, but felt overwhelmed by where to even start? Thru-hiking is more than a long walk. It’s a craft, and like any craft, it can be taught. Our Learn to Thru-Hike Adventure is a comprehensive, hands-on experience designed to take you from day hiker to confident backcountry traveler. This is more than a guided trip, it’s a full educational journey that includes a pre-trip planning session, a 3-day/2-night field expedition in the Catskills, and a post-trip debrief to refine your skills and gear. Along the way, you’ll learn the systems, strategies, and mindset required for long-distance hiking, whether your goal is to complete a section hike, tackle a thru-hike, or simply feel more capable and self-sufficient in the backcountry. This experience blends practical skills training, real-world application, and personalized instruction in one of New York’s most accessible wilderness areas. ### What You'll Learn 🎯 How to set realistic goals and physically prepare for long-distance hiking 🗺️ How to plan routes, manage permits, and navigate logistical challenges 🎒 How to choose and optimize your gear, including the “Big Three” (shelter, sleep system, and pack) 🥾 How to plan daily mileage, read elevation profiles, and build flexible itineraries 🍽️ How to fuel your body with effective backcountry nutrition strategies 🧭 Navigation and wayfinding using maps, compass, GPS, and natural cues ⚠️ Risk management, including environmental hazards and emergency preparedness 🌿 Leave No Trace principles and responsible wilderness travel practices ### The Destination Backcountry Difference Why learn to thru-hike with us? Our NY State licensed wilderness guides are not just hike leaders, they are experienced educators dedicated to helping you build real, lasting backcountry skills. This is more than a backpacking trip. It’s a complete learning experience. Most guided adventures end at the trailhead. This one includes a structured curriculum, a personalized planning session before your trip, and a post-trip debrief to help you refine your system and continue progressing toward your goals. By the end of the experience, you’ll leave with the knowledge, confidence, and practical experience needed to plan and execute your own backcountry adventures. ### What's Included? 📚 Comprehensive digital curriculum delivered upon registration 📋 Pre-trip planning session (virtual or in-person) to review goals, gear, and route 🏕️ 3-day / 2-night guided backcountry expedition 🍽️ All meals and trail snacks, with instruction on backcountry nutrition planning 🎒 Group gear including tents, stoves, and water filtration (or bring your own to test in the field) 📝 Post-trip debrief session to review performance and refine your setup ### Schedule Exact itinerary will vary based on route and group goals. Below is a general outline of the experience. **Day 1** Meet at trailhead for introductions, gear check, and final preparation Begin hiking and apply foundational skills in route planning and pacing Set up camp and introduce backcountry systems and routines **Day 2** Full day of hiking with continued instruction on navigation, nutrition, and efficiency Hands-on practice with gear systems, decision-making, and risk management Evening discussion on long-distance strategy and trail life **Day 3** Morning breakdown of camp and final hiking segment Return to trailhead and debrief key lessons from the field *All times are flexible. We adjust every experience to the pace, goals, and needs of the group.* ### What Do I Need to Bring With Me? **Must have** 💧 2+ liters of water capacity 🎽 Wear: Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for multi-day hiking 🥾 Footwear: Broken-in hiking boots or trail runners 🎒 Personal gear (full packing list provided in pre-trip materials) 🧣 Extra layers for changing weather conditions **Good to have** 🌧️ Rain shell 🕶️ Sunglasses 🧢 Hat 📓 Notebook for notes and trip planning ### FAQs **What happens after I book my adventure?** You will receive a confirmation email for your adventure within 24 hours of booking. Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a final packing list, our adventure waiver, and more. **More questions?** Visit our [FAQ page](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/pages/faq) here.

Free Museum Day (DIA BEACON) & Mt. Beacon Hike

We've arranged for a number of free tickets at DIA BEACON on the Hudson River https://www.diaart.org/visit/visit-our-locations-sites/dia-beacon-beacon-united-states Folks taking the train can take the 856 leaving Grand Central arriving 1028 following the Museum, we'll hop in ubers and/or folks that can drive to the Mt Beacon trail head across down and climb Mt Beacon. Maybe Hudson Valley Brewery afterwards? We will have hard tickets printed in hand to go in together, so please RSVP to the meetup and then add your name to this list, only if you are positive you will use the tickets. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_xficapfZVSZ1XhVl71Da89I6WgLxYhGm6vxjSFEq-s/edit?gid=0#gid=0 Currently we have 30 tickets, and will likely have more.

BMW Hike

Backpackers Book Club: Night of the Grizzlies

This month we’re reading Night of the Grizzlies by Jack Olsen, a nonfiction account of a tragic night in Glacier National Park that explores the intersection of people, wilderness, and unpredictable danger. The book looks at what happens when human expectations meet a place that doesn’t follow human rules. **Note:** Location for discussion is TBD. This book can be a bit harder to find in print, so most people may need to use an ebook or audiobook version. --- *Night of the Grizzlies* by Jack Olsen **1. The Illusion of Safety** * What responsibility do visitors have versus park authorities? * Can wilderness ever really be “managed”? **2. Confidence in the Outdoors** * Why do humans tend to become more comfortable around risk over time? * How might familiarity with nature shift how people judge danger? * Where do you see overconfidence show up in outdoor settings? **3. The Attraction of Danger** * Is risk part of what makes wilderness meaningful or memorable? * Do stories like this change how you think about nature?

From Trail to Tap (5/31) A Hudson Valley Brews & Views Experience

**[BOOK HERE](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/collections/all-guided-outdoor-adventures/products/from-trail-to-tap-a-hudson-valley-brews-views-experience-with-brad)** ### Brews & Views: Minnewaska Hiking & Brewery Experience **Explore the Hudson Valley’s most stunning landscapes before diving into its thriving craft beer scene.** ### Adventure Snapshot 🥾 Activity: Guided hike and curated brewery experience ⏱️ Duration: Full-day adventure (\~12–13 hours including travel) 🥾 Distance: Moderate hiking on carriage roads and ridge trails ⛰️ Elevation: Moderate 🧭 Difficulty: Easy to moderate 📍 Location: Minnewaska State Park & Hudson Valley, NY 👥 Group Size: Small group experience Join us for a one-of-a-kind day combining two of the Hudson Valley’s greatest offerings: breathtaking landscapes and world-class craft beer. Led by our Head Guide (and renowned beer connoisseur) Brad Winer, this experience blends a half-day hike through the cliffs, ridges, and sky lakes of Minnewaska State Park with a thoughtfully curated journey through the region’s brewery scene. This isn’t just a hike with a beer stop on the way home, the breweries are as much a part of the experience as the trail. On the hike, we’ll explore one of the Hudson Valley’s most iconic landscapes, moving at a relaxed pace while taking in sweeping views, unique geology, and the park’s rich ecosystem. Afterward, we’ll transition from trail to taproom, visiting a selection of local breweries where you’ll enjoy thoughtfully chosen pours, hear the stories behind the beer, and experience firsthand what makes the Hudson Valley one of the most exciting craft brewing regions in the Northeast. This experience blends outdoor exploration, local culture, and great company into one unforgettable day. ### What You'll Learn 🌄 The geology and natural history of Minnewaska State Park 🌳 How the Hudson Valley’s ecosystems shape the landscape and trails 🍺 An introduction to the Hudson Valley craft beer scene 🍻 What makes different beer styles unique and how to taste them 🏞️ How to pair outdoor adventure with local cultural experiences 🧭 Tips for exploring the region’s trails and breweries on your own ### The Destination Backcountry Difference Why explore with us? Our NY State licensed wilderness guides are not just hike leaders, they are passionate educators dedicated to creating meaningful, well-rounded outdoor experiences. This trip is led by Brad Winer, Destination Backcountry’s Head Guide and the creative force behind our Brews & Views series. Brad brings the same depth of knowledge and enthusiasm to a trailhead as he does to a tap list. This isn’t just a hike with an added stop, it’s a thoughtfully designed experience built around two things done exceptionally well. By the end of the day, you’ll leave with incredible views, a deeper appreciation for the region, and a few new favorite breweries. ### What's Included? 🚐 Transportation to and from NYC ☕ Breakfast: Fresh fruit, donuts, and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive 🧀 Lunch: A healthy gourmet lunch and snacks during the adventure. Vegetarian and vegan options available, and we’re happy to accommodate dietary needs and allergies 🍺 Curated brewery visits and guided tasting experience (beer available for purchase) 🌄 On-trail guidance from Brad Winer, Head Guide and resident beer expert ### Schedule 6:30 Brooklyn pickup near Barclays 7:00 Manhattan pickup at Grand Central \~9:30 Arrival at Minnewaska State Park and begin guided hike \~12:30 Lunch with scenic views \~1:30 Depart for brewery visits \~2:30–5:30 Curated brewery stops and tasting experiences \~5:30 Begin return to the city \~7:30 Manhattan drop-off \~8:00 Brooklyn drop-off *All times are estimates. We adjust every experience to the pace and needs of the group. Travel times are subject to weather and traffic.* ### What Do I Need to Bring With Me? ### Must have 💧 2, 1-liter water bottles 🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes suitable for hiking 🥾 Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, trail runners, or hiking boots 🧣 A few extra layers for breaks ### Good to have **🌧️** Rain shell 🕶️ Sunglasses 🧢 Hat ### FAQs **What happens after I book my adventure?** You will receive a confirmation email for your adventure within 24 hours of booking. Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a final packing list, our adventure waiver, and more. **More questions?** Visit our [FAQ page](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/pages/faq) here.