Backpacking New York

Adirondack Fall Foliage - Car Camping

**Fall in the Adirondacks is always spectacular!** Come join us for a weekend of camping and hiking in the southern Adirondacks, which has better foliage and far fewer crowds than the High Peaks. A couple of important notes: 1. **Weekend trips are open to regularly attending members in good standing only. Message Andre if you're interested.** 2. Hikes are member-organized. Everyone is expected to be able to read a map, follow a trail, and choose hikes within their fitness and ability. Depending on the attendees, we might split into two or more hikes. Do not count on someone more experienced or skilled than yourself to lead you. Hikes in the area are typically 5 miles and up, suitable for intermediate and advanced hikers. I've found that doing a couple of short hikes in different areas maximizes the foliage viewing. (See [Andre's AllTrails list of nearby hikes](https://www.alltrails.com/lists/southern-adks-day-hikes-fb508ef?u=i&sh=q9msug).) There are several great lookout towers in the area that provide 360-degree views, and the high peaks are always an option if you want something longer. **Logistics:** * **Camping Location:** Car-camping near Long Lake / Newcome NY ara, with showers, toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, and canoe rentals. Max two tents and two cars per campsite. * **Food:** BYO food and snacks. There is very little nearby in terms of stores, so bring all your food for the weekend. Mountain House dehydrated meals are a fine option. * **Cost:** $25 per person for two nights of camping, paid to Andre * **General Rules**: We are a low alcohol group. No RVs, generators, camper vans, etc. No dogs allowed. **Schedule:** * **Friday:** Leave as early in the afternoon as you can. It is 5-6 hours to the campground from NYC. Please try to arrive by 10 pm out of courtesy to other campers. * **Saturday:** We'll rise early for our various hikes, BYO dinner at the campsite around a campfire. * **Sunday:** Generally a short hike before hitting the road in the afternoon. \*\*\* **Camping Gear:** * Tent, or space in someone's tent * Sleeping pad and sleeping bag suitable for the low 30s at night * Stove, pots, and pan (check about sharing) * Personal plate/spoon/cup, etc; toiletries, towel, and flip-flops for the shower; swimsuit (for the brave). **Hiking Gear:** * Standard day hiking gear: Waterproof boots suggested (trail shoes are not recommended in the ADKs), non-cotton clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, sunhat, sunglasses, rain gear, hiking poles, snacks, etc. * Winter hat, gloves, and jacket, plus insulating layers to account for unpredictable fall mountain weather. If you plan on hiking one of the high peaks, bring microspikes and full winter clothing since early October is usually the first real snow of the season. * Maps of the region: [National Geographic Adirondack High Peaks](http://amzn.to/1JUrKk2) & [National Geographic Northville, Raquette Lake](https://amzn.to/3LcmGud) * **GPS app with offline maps** **Weather:** Average hi/low: 70s/40s, might be in the 30s. The weather above the tree line is always worse. Mountain weather is often unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

Acadia National Park! 🏞️🤩

Let's explore Acadia National Park from Friday, October 9th to Monday, October 12th! 🏞️🤩 Welcome to bring or rent your own car or to meet us there! Can join for any part! A group of us will be renting cars at Hertz. Details below. We have room for four more people in the car (please reply if interested in joining our carpool with shared costs in the question you'll see after trying to RSVP). Please try to find your own accomodations as soon as possible as they will likely either sell out or become expensive quickly. On Friday, October 9th at 8:15am: Pick up cars at Hertz at LaGuardia Terminal A On Monday, October 12th evening: Drop off cars at LaGuardia Terminal A Our general Acadia itinerary (we may not do everything here or at the exact times listed so please check your messages!) Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 2026 ⭐ = can't-miss highlight BEFORE WE GO Cadillac sunrise reservation ($6/vehicle) releases Thursday, Oct 8 at 10:00 AM ET on Recreation.gov — book early, these sell out in minutes. Also grab the $35 7-day park pass in the same checkout. Beehive + Precipice folks: bring your own vehicle so you can run on your own schedule (details below). DEER ISLE & ACADIA — TRIP ITINERARY ​ Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 2026 ​ ⭐ = can't-miss highlight ​ ​ BEFORE WE GO ​ Cadillac sunrise reservation ($6/vehicle) releases Thursday, Oct 8 at 10:00 AM ET on Recreation.gov — book early, these sell out in minutes. Also grab the $35 7-day park pass in the same checkout. ​ Beehive + Precipice folks: bring your own vehicle so you can run on your own schedule (details below). ​ ​ DAY 1 — FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9: ARRIVAL ​ 7:00–9:00 PM — Arrive Deer Isle, settle in ​ \~7:30–9:00 PM — Dinner in Stonington at ⭐ \*\*Stonecutters Kitchen\*\* (seafood, $$, reservation recommended). Or \*\*El El Frijoles\*\* (Mexican/BBQ) / \*\*Harbor Cafe\*\*. ​ ​ DAY 2 — SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10: EAST SIDE & BAR HARBOR ​ Main Group ​ 4:45 AM — Depart Deer Isle (\~75 min drive) ​ \~6:00–7:15 AM — Sunrise atop ⭐ \*\*Cadillac Mountain\*\* ​ \~7:35–7:50 AM — \*\*Sieur de Monts / Wild Gardens of Acadia\*\* ​ \~8:00–8:10 AM — \*\*Schooner Head Overlook\*\* ​ \~8:15–10:15 AM — ⭐ \*\*Sand Beach → Ocean Path → Thunder Hole → Otter Cliffs → Otter Point\*\* ​ \~10:45 AM–12:45 PM — ⭐ \*\*Jordan Pond Path\*\* + \*\*Bubble Rock\*\* (via Bubbles Divide Trail) ​ \~1:00–2:00 PM — Lunch at ⭐ \*\*Side Street Cafe\*\*. Or \*\*Rosalie's Pizza\*\* / \*\*Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen\*\*. Quick stop at \*\*Sherman's Books & Stationery\*\*. ​ \~2:05 PM — Bikes from \*\*Acadia Bike\*\* ​ \~2:20–4:20 PM — Bike the \*\*Carriage Roads\*\* (Witch Hole Pond Loop) ​ Flexible (low tide) — ⭐ \*\*Bar Island land bridge\*\* ​ \~6:00–7:30 PM — Dinner at ⭐ \*\*West Street Cafe\*\*. Or \*\*Testa's Bar & Grill\*\* / \*\*Geddy's\*\*. ​ \~8:30–9:00 PM — Back in Deer Isle via ⭐ \*\*Momo's Cheesecakes\*\* (Ellsworth, open 24/7) ​ Advanced Option — Beehive + Precipice (own vehicle, both trails, not either/or) ​ 5:00 AM — Depart Deer Isle straight for Precipice (skips Cadillac sunrise for better parking & real daylight before climbing) ​ \~6:10–6:45 AM — Arrive early, wait for full daylight ​ \~6:50–9:20 AM — ⭐ \*\*Precipice Trail\*\* (iron rungs, \~1,000 ft gain) ​ \~9:30–11:15 AM — ⭐ \*\*Beehive Trail\*\* (iron rungs, shorter but still serious) ​ \~11:30 AM–12:00 PM — Buffer time in Bar Harbor ​ 1:00–2:00 PM — Rejoin main group for lunch ​ Not for kids, fear of heights, or wet rock — skip if it's rained recently. ​ ​ DAY 3 — SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11: THE QUIET SIDE ​ 9:00 AM — Depart Deer Isle (\~70–75 min drive) ​ \~10:15–11:45 AM — ⭐ \*\*Beech Mountain Loop\*\* ​ \~12:00–1:00 PM — \*\*Ship Harbor\*\* + \*\*Wonderland Trails\*\* ​ \~1:10–2:00 PM — Lunch at ⭐ \*\*Charlotte's Legendary Lobster Pound\*\* (goats and chickens on-site!). Or \*\*Thurston's Lobster Pound\*\* / \*\*Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2\*\*. ​ \~2:15–3:15 PM — ⭐ \*\*Seal Cove Auto Museum\*\* ​ \~3:30–5:00 PM — Free time in Southwest Harbor ​ \~5:30–6:15 PM — ⭐ \*\*Bass Harbor Head Light\*\* ​ \~6:30–8:00 PM — Dinner heading back ​ \~9:00–9:30 PM — Back in Deer Isle ​ ​ DAY 4 — MONDAY, OCTOBER 12: DEPARTURE ​ 7:30–8:15 AM — Coffee at ⭐ \*\*44 North Coffee\*\* ​ \~8:30–9:45 AM — Optional: \*\*Barred Island Preserve\*\* (tide-permitting) ​ By 10:00 AM — Depart Deer Isle ​ ​ 🎥 SEE IT BEFORE YOU COME — TOP 5, ON YOUTUBE (direct search links, not one single video — lets you browse and pick what looks best) ​ 1\. Cadillac Mountain Sunrise: https://www\.youtube\.com/results?search_query=Cadillac\+Mountain\+sunrise\+Acadia ​ 2\. Sand Beach / Thunder Hole / Ocean Path: https://www\.youtube\.com/results?search_query=Thunder\+Hole\+Ocean\+Path\+Acadia ​ 3\. Jordan Pond & Bubble Rock: https://www\.youtube\.com/results?search_query=Jordan\+Pond\+Bubble\+Rock\+Acadia ​ 4\. Bass Harbor Head Light: https://www\.youtube\.com/results?search_query=Bass\+Harbor\+Head\+Light\+Maine ​ 5\. Beehive Trail: https://www\.youtube\.com/results?search_query=Beehive\+Trail\+Acadia Of course, please reach out if you have any questions! The not so fun rule on RSVPs Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

JGOOT Travel Meetup - New York

Welcome to the JGOOT Travel Hacking Enthusiasts Meetup Group! Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of points and miles, this group is perfect for anyone looking to travel more luxuriously for less. Come hang out with fellow travel enthusiasts and swap stories, tips, and tricks about travel hacking! Whether it’s maximizing rewards programs or finding the best ways to use points for flights and hotels, this is a laid-back space to share ideas and pick up new strategies. Connect with experienced travelers and get inspired to level up your adventures. Located in the New York area, we host engaging, interactive events where you can ask questions, share experiences, and find inspiration for your next adventure. Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Come join us and learn how to travel smarter, better, and for nearly free! 🌍✈️ \*Non-Refundable RSVP fee: $25 in advance Fee covers room rental rates, light shareable appetizers, and ensures accuracy of number of attendees.

Autumn Camping at Stokes State Forest

Let's experience a fall camping weekend at Stokes State Forest, NJ, where the maples transform the woods into a sea of crimson and gold. Wander along leaf-carpeted trails, each step surrounded by the vibrant colors of autumn. Awaken to misty mornings and birdsong, then spend your days hiking through picture-perfect valleys aglow with fall foliage. In the evening, gather around the campfire under a sky full of stars and soak in the pure warmth and beauty of autumn. Optional activities include hiking, biking, fishing, boating/Kayaking, birdwatching, and Wildlife Viewing Photography: **Fees**: **$28.90 per person for 2 nights and 3 days**. Sites provide flush toilets, showers, Picnic tables, and Fire rings. Bring your own Firewood for 2 nights. Payment: **Venmo@Nature-and-outdoors** What to Bring: Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.) Kayak/canoe or rental Dry bags or waterproof containers Water-appropriate clothing, rain gear, and swimwear

Grand canyon, Death Valley, Sequoia trip (5d)

\*\*\*PLEASE READ THE DESCRIPTION\*\*\* Dear North America mammals, we finally decided to make a trip that we planned for the last 10 years. At this time we will spend the Thanksgiving holidays in Copper, Silver and Golden states by visiting Grand canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas, Sequoia park, Hollywood, and many other places. This is a **5-days, 5-nights trip, but you can join us at any time!** Start day: **November 25** Finish day: **November 29** **\*\*Preliminary plan\*\*** November 25 - (morning) Meeting by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) November 25 - Hiking Grand Canyon November 26 - Shooting at range at Las Vegas November 26 - Walking through Las Vegas strip November 27 - Hiking Death Valley November 28 - Hiking Sequoia park November 29 - Half day in Hollywood November 29 - (evening) Returning back home **Full plan** will be distributed via our **WhatsApp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LIJMBwqDN2P509lyrCV8HS?s=cl&p=a&ilr=4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LIJMBwqDN2P509lyrCV8HS?s=cl&p=a&ilr=4)** **\*\*\*\* TIPS \*\*\*\*** Please be ready to wake up at 6-7 AM and hike/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. For drivers: approx. map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/2hwpoENKqYQyD3f86](https://maps.app.goo.gl/2hwpoENKqYQyD3f86) 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) 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) 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. **Please note, that additional surcharge for National parks might be applied for Non-U.S. residents.**

Leader Launch Day

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001JNWb2AO/act00023952)** Interested in becoming an AMC outdoor leader, or looking to sharpen your leadership skills? Join us for the Leaders Launch Day, a day of connection, learning, and hands-on practice in the field. Whether you're exploring leadership for the first time, working through the Leader-in-Training process, or are already an active leader looking for a refresher, you'll spend the day learning alongside fellow AMC leaders in a supportive environment. We'll start with coffee and conversation before heading out on the trail for a field-based leadership practicum featuring realistic scenarios, group discussion, mentoring, and skill-building. We'll wrap up the day with trip planning support to help future leaders take the next step toward posting and leading an activity. Take [Outdoor Leader Fundamentals](https://appalachian-mountain-club-2649.reach360.com/register/e1a8d723-2366-45eb-8713-33031244a0ad), then join the this Future Leaders Hike. By the end of the day, you'll have hands-on leadership experience and clear next steps toward leading your first AMC trip. NY-NoJ Chapter Leaders-in-Training: Participation in this event counts as two co-leads toward your leadership requirements. Please bring any materials needed to document your participation and leadership sign-offs. **Route Description** We'll meet at The Bonnefont. From there, we'll explore the paths of Fort Tryon Park during an extended field session focused on outdoor leadership practice. Along the way, participants will rotate through practicing leadership roles and work through realistic outdoor leadership scenarios. The route provides a welcoming environment for new leaders while offering meaningful opportunities for experienced leaders to refine their skills through mentoring, discussion, and hands-on practice. **What to Pack** Please bring what you need to be comfortable outdoors for the day. We'll move at a training pace (approximately 1.5 mph) with frequent stops for discussion, scenarios, and skills practice. * Comfortable walking or hiking footwear * Weather-appropriate clothing * A warm layer for longer training stops * Rain layer * Water (at least 1-2 liters) * Lunch and trail snacks * Small daypack * Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) * Personal medications * Notebook and pen (optional) * Trekking poles (optional) **Schedule** 9:00–10:00 AM \| Coffee & Connections Meet fellow participants, local leaders, and chapter volunteers while learning more about leadership opportunities at AMC. 10:00 AM–3:00 PM \| Leadership Scenarios on Trail A facilitated field experience featuring realistic leadership scenarios, group discussion, mentoring, and practical problem-solving in an outdoor setting. Topics may include: * Trip talks and activity introductions * Leader and sweep role rotations * Group management scenarios * Navigation and decision making * Inclusion and participant care * Risk awareness and judgment in the field 3:00\-5:00 PM \| Trip Planning Explore activity ideas, get help with trip planning and posting, connect with mentors, and leave with clear next steps toward leading your own AMC activity Join us for the full day or the portions most relevant to your leadership journey. Whether you're preparing to post your first activity or looking to refresh your skills, you'll leave with new connections, practical experience, and clear next steps. Please Register **[HERE](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001JNWb2AO/act00023952)** if you plan to attend. Your registration helps us plan mentoring support, materials, and group size for the day! Leader: Amaya Michael

Chile Patagonia W+ Trek, Riverside Glamping, Thxgiving week (limited spots)

Smoky Mountain Boots and Roots Hiking

**OVERVIEW** Are you into endless views? Old-growth forests? Mist bouncing off a 100-foot waterfall hitting your face? Then spend a long weekend with a small group of women hiking the best trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (including parts of the Appalachian Trail). Channel your inner goat girl as you stroll through iconic scenery and listen to stories of the women who helped shape the Smokies. Take a brief break from the trail living out your pottery fantasies throwing clay on the wheel and sculpting your very own mug. Then kick back like a queen with nightly glamping near Gatlinburg, TN. **BOOTS = HIKING** Get your blues and greens in on three stunning hikes that don’t even look real. The views from Charlies Bunion and Ramsay Cascades are complete madness. Wind your way through pine trees and over classic creek crossings that make you momentarily consider a coonskin hat. (But not really, because animals ♥️) **ROOTS = HER-STORY** Did you know a woman was the first settler to move to the Smoky Mountains? You didn’t? That’s because Martha Jane Huskey Ogle’s husband called dibs on the fame. Learn about the deliciously woman-heavy history of a wilderness that man tried real hard to claim as his own. Your Explorer Chick guide will drop all the juicy gossip, connecting you to the goosebumpy sisterhood who walked before you. Deep dive into Appalachian crafts straddling a wheel and molding a coffee mug with your very own hands. Local artists will guide you through the entire pottery process and only help when needed. After 10 weeks of drying, firing, and glazing, your mug will show up at your doorstep. Surprise! Relive the SHE-nanigans of your Smokies trip. **YOU FEELING MAX COMFY WHILE GLAMPING** Put your feet up in total Insta-worthy digs at our adorable glamping site minutes from Gatlinburg. You will sleep in a tent that has been tastefully decorated and luxuriously appointed with WiFi and temperature control – with meals freshly prepared at camp by your Explorer Chick guides. You only have one task after hiking: RELAX. **ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS:** * Hike the Appalachian Trail to the sweeping panaromic views from Charlies Bunion * Get up close and personal with the Smokies tallest waterfall, Ramsey Cascades * Learn how to work clay on a wheel as you create your one of a kind glazed coffee mug * Kick back at camp with breakfasts and dinners cooked by your Explorer Chick guides. * Sleep easy at our Glamping site with canvas tents outfitted with all the creature comforts. * Relax with a comprehensive itinerary that makes the logistics, transportation, navigation, meal planning, lodging, and everything between easy. * Geek out with supportive and encouraging Explorer Chicks on a private, women-only, small group adventure tour. **See the website for full details and to book.** [https://explorerchick.com/adventures/womens-smoky-mountain-boots-and-roots-hiking-trip/](https://explorerchick.com/adventures/womens-smoky-mountain-boots-and-roots-hiking-trip/) **Say Hello 👋** 💻 Website: [https://explorerchick.com/](https://explorerchick.com/) 📧 Email: [hello@explorerchick.com](http://hello@explorerchick.com/) 📸 Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/explorerchickadventureco/](https://www.instagram.com/explorerchickadventureco/) ❤️ Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/ExplorerChickAdventureCo/](https://www.facebook.com/ExplorerChickAdventureCo/) 👯‍♀️ Facebook Group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/weareexplorerchick](https://www.facebook.com/groups/weareexplorerchick) 🎥 TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@explorerchick](https://www.tiktok.com/@explorerchick)

Ending the hallucination tax: Governing the backbone of enterprise AI

Enterprises scaling agents in production are dealing with a major challenge: AI hallucinations and model inaccuracy. ​Trustworthy AI relies on the quality, context, and permissions of the underlying data. Grounding AI in robust data governance transforms foundational data management into the backbone of a reliable agentic AI strategy. ​At this event, hear from technology leaders who will share actionable strategies to eliminate the hallucination tax, establish enterprise-wide data governance, and implement effective context and control frameworks that serve as the foundation for scaling trustworthy AI across your organization.

Harriman Overnight: Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail

Catskill Backpack - Devil's Path

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-devil-s-path?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! The Devil's Path is the capstone of our Advanced Catskill Backpacking Series. For those on their Catskill 3500 quest, we will be summiting Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, Plateau, & West Kill, as well as St. Anne's Peak, part of The Catskill 67. Those who choose can optionally wake early on the last day to also summit Hunter and Southwest Hunter for a total of seven 3500 peaks! Widely regarded as one of the most demanding traverses in the Northeast, this route is defined by steep ascents, sharp descents, relentless elevation change, and very little room for inefficiency. Over the course of this weekend, we will: • Manage sustained, aggressive elevation gain and loss • Navigate technical, rugged footing with the full packs • Maintain disciplined pacing across extended mountain days • Truly thrive in one of the most challenging trails in our part of the country The Devil’s Path is not long because of mileage — it is demanding because of terrain. The climbs are direct. The descents are unforgiving. Energy management becomes critical. Day 1 - 2 miles, 350' up, 100' down - setting up camp after sunset Day 2 - 6 miles, 3,100' up, 2,750' down Day 3 - 6 miles, 2,900' up, 2,000' down Day 4 - 9 miles, 2,150' up, 3,900' down Participants should: • Be highly confident carrying a multi-day pack over steep terrain • Have completed prior TrailBound advanced backpacking trips • Be prepared for significant cumulative elevation gain • Be comfortable in sustained, rugged mountain conditions This is not about speed. It is about control, competence, and commitment. A truly rewarding experience comes from completion! 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.

Backpacking Trip - Challenging

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/backpacking-trip-challenging?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! Our most advanced instructional trip in the backpacking series adds hiking into the backcountry at night, more challenging terrain and scrambles, and an overall more ambitious itinerary over the weekend. Students will participate in the trip planning so they can expect to complete the trip as capable solo or group trip leaders. This is a challenging 2-night backpacking trip with a roundtrip total of 10 miles including 3,700' of elevation change up and 2,700' of elevation change down. The scrambles leave smiles on everyone's faces and give us the opportunity to teach how to use rope to pull up our packs after scrambles and even create guidelines for additional safety and comfort (these are scrambles though, we're not rock climbing). We'll continue to teach footwork and scrambling tactics, setting up camp at night, and any other topics that come up. We'll be at your side every step of the way. We’ll start off in the evening to hike in and find a suitable area to set up camp off-trail at night, simulating a typical after-work start to a backpacking trek. The next day we'll scramble up to the Burroughs Range ridgeline where we'll encounter the absolute best view in the Catskills atop Wittenberg Mountain, one of the Catskill 3500 peaks. We'll continue to scramble up the infamous Cornell Crack to summit Cornell Mountain for our second Catskill 3500 peak. To end the day we'll drop down into the saddle to set up camp and enjoy the evening and campfire. Our third day finds us scrambling up and over Slide Mountain, our third Catskill 3500 peak and the tallest in the Catskills. Students will leave self-reliant and capable of using their skills and experiences to not only be confident independent backpackers, but to mentor others looking to experience the outdoors. 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.