Beginner Hiking New York

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.

Our First Meetup: Hempstead Lake Hike

**welcome to our new group! For our very first Meetup** we'll take an easy breezy hike at **[Hempstead Lake State Park](https://parks.ny.gov/parks/hempsteadlake)** on Long Island for fresh air, fitness and camaraderie with new friends. **Park is reachable on LIRR to Lakeview Station then 20-min walk over to the park.** **ABOUT THE PARK:** [https://parks.ny.gov/parks/hempsteadlake](https://parks.ny.gov/parks/hempsteadlake) **GETTING THERE:** **check LIRR train schedule --------->[HERE](https://new.mta.info/schedules?tab=mnr) for LIRR that will get you to Lakeview Station by 9:39AM.** **AGENDA**: Once we arrive at Lakeview station by 9:39am it's a 20-min walk to the **Environmental Education and Resiliency Center located at 880 Lake Drive, West Hempstead, NY 11552.** There are parking and bathroom facilities here. **PACE**: **LEISURELY and no one will be left behind. NO SPEED DEMONS!** **MILEAGE:** About 3 miles **TRAIL MAP:** **[Hempstead Lake Loop on AllTrails](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/hempstead-lake-loop?sh=oze8sp&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality)** **THE IMPORTANT STUFF:** * Dress for the weather * Wear appropriate shoes suitable for hiking/walking * Bring snacks and water * Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, head cover * Bring a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. A smile also goes a long way. Please leave the drama and crankiness at home. **DURATION**: This will not be an all day hike. cannot guarantee finishing time, but hope to finish by 4, if not earlier. But you can leave ON YOUR OWN at any time. WE WON'T JUDGE. MUCH. **WEATHER**: Heavy Rain cancels ***LIABILITY WAIVER: come prepared. Participate at your own risks. Hold no one liable, etc. etc.***

Spring Hike out of Tuxedo [~12 miles, Train Access]

Kick off the hiking season with a classic loop covering a few lookout points and passing a couple of lakes. [Message Andre](https://www.meetup.com/members/230822/) with any questions about this event. **Please take the [group's 2026 member survey](https://tally.so/r/2EeqKb).** (Especially if you didn't hike with us last year.) \*\*\* **What to Expect on a Hike:** * **We plan to stay together as a group, but this is a social event for hikers and not a guided hike.** Everyone needs to be a self-sufficient hiker with adequate skills and equipment. * **If you are not comfortable hiking** **self-sufficiently** **or are not experienced enough to judge the skill and physical requirements in the route description**, check out the [Appalachian Mountain Club’s](https://www.outdoors.org/) hikes or one of the many professional guides operating in the area. \*\*\* **Typical day-hiking gear list:** * Hiking footwear (boots or trail shoes), non-cotton clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, sunhat, sunglasses. ([Permethrin insecticide](https://amzn.to/3XNcflS) treatment against ticks is great.) * Rain gear and an extra warm layer. * Lunch and snacks. 2 liters/ 2 quarts of water minimum, 3 liters for a hot day. Electrolytes on hot days. * **GPS app with offline maps:** **Avenza Maps App** is free, and there is a [free Harriman map in the in-app store](https://store.avenza.com/products/harriman-state-park-trail-map-new-york-state-parks-map?srsltid=AfmBOop2tjhY_l6EzM9c8nYhD5JYycTpDF62ocPcbf1-nidghL5aYL-9). **[Mapy App](http://mapy.com/)** has basic offline trail maps that are adequate. CalTopo ($20/yr) is an excellent GPS program. (AllTrails and GaiaGPS are pricey but also great.) * Map & Compass: NYNJTC Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails or National Geographic Harriman, both available locally at REI. \*\*\* **Route Info:** About 12 miles with about 1.5k' elevation gain at an average pace of about 2 mph. (Moving pace will be faster.) * **GPS:** [Black Ash-Skemonto-Claudius Loop](https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.9/-74.1552/41.2113&pubLink=KhOL136qZzAYzSiYYCKkgmTW&routeId=ca062906-b224-44a4-8297-1af5195af48e) * Navigation and Route Finding: Blazed trails * Terrain Type: Hiking trails that may be rough and steep (Class 2) * Contingency Planning: Shorter routes and bailout points are available. Cell coverage can be spotty, but there's generally coverage. \*\*\* **Meeting Location & Logistics:** * **Meeting Time:** 10:40 am * **Meeting Location:** Meet at the Tuxedo commuter parking lot off East Village Road ([Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/aoABudbFJkjAKF926)). (Use the address 2 Powerhouse Ln, Tuxedo Park, NY 10987.) * **Public Transit:** Take the 9:14 am NJ Transit train from Penn Station to Tuxedo Station, arriving at 10:29 am. The station is just around the corner from the parking lot where we are meeting. Return on the 6:44 pm train. Or the 4:20 train, or one of the hourly trains from Suffern via Uber. (Catching the 4:20 train might require cutting the hike short.) * Car Pooling: Please use the comment section to organize carpooling, especially if you are driving from the city. Passengers should chip in for gas and tolls. \*\*\* **General FAQs:** * Regular members in good standing can always skip the waitlist. * No dogs allowed. * No guests beyond the RSVP guest limit, and no one under 18 is allowed. * Hikes are generally rescheduled for thunderstorms, heat index >95f, or AQI >80. \*\*\*

Happy 8th Anniversary to Staten Island Hiking Meetup 🥾🎉🥾🎉 now on June 6

Wilderness First Aid & CPR Course

Hi Hikers, I took their WFA class back in November, and it was great. I highly recommend it. A WFA class is worth taking for anyone who frequents the outdoors, whether you are a climber, skier, mountaineer, or hiker. And it's not just for those heading into deep wilderness - Based on my personal experience running meetup hikes mostly in the NYC area, most injuries happen within just a few hours' drive of the city! \-\-\-\-\- **If you are interested,** [register with Wilderness First Aid NYC](https://wildernessfirstaidnyc.com/course/wilderness-first-aid-bklyn-commons-june2026/). \-\-\-\-\- [Offered by Wilderness First Aid NYC](https://wildernessfirstaidnyc.com/course/wilderness-first-aid-bklyn-commons-june2026/) **Schedule Hours**: 16 hours over 2 Days (Saturday and Sunday) **Training**: Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Wilderness Anaphylaxis Training **Certification**: 2-year certification **Prerequisite**: None **Cost:** $385.00 **Location:** BKLYN Commons, 495 Flatbush Ave Brooklyn, New York 11225 The **Wilderness First Aid (WFA)** course is an introduction to wilderness medicine and basic life support skills. This is a hands-on, scenario-based training focused on prevention, assessment, and treatment of environmental illnesses, recognizing and stabilizing life threats caused by trauma, and calling for a rescue in the event of a wilderness emergency. The WFA is ideal training for outdoor enthusiasts, camp counselors, and backcountry trip leaders. Learn more about the [Wilderness First Aid (WFA) curriculum and course details here](https://wildernessfirstaidnyc.com/course-wfa/).

Sun 5\31 For Pk Hike From Buddy Statue Hike.

JERRY will lead this hike We Meet at MYRTLE AV & PARK LANE SOUTH. \*\*\* CHECK HERE BEFORE GOING \*\*\* Weather may cancel hike.\*\*\* Distance is a about 4 miles plus or minus a bit. Meet time is 10:30AM, hike start is 10:45AM. Duration is about 2 hours + or - a few minutes. We will hike along several of the many trails in the woods. Wear heavy shoes or boots as the trails are rocky and have many tree roots. Attendance is at your own risk, and by joining, you agree to hold us not responsible for any accidents, injuries, losses or unforeseen problems that may arise. This includes contamination by any germs, viruses, or any other illnesses. If the grouping, numbers of attendees and distances get too close, we will break into two separate groups. This should satisfy any limitations on numbers of hikers and distancing. The hike is free ,but we would like to ask for a voluntary donation of whatever you want, or one $ 1 or $2 to help cover the fee Meetup charges us to use their website.

Central Park Beginner Runners

Note: please rsvp as "going" only if you are actually going to allow others to come as the max slot is set to 20! Thanks! Running can be overwhelming and a bit daunting if you are just starting out. That's why we've created the Central Park Beginner Runners Club, a relaxed, no pressure group for anyone looking to ease into running, enjoy the outdoors, and meet friendly faces along the way. Whether you've never run a mile or are just getting back into it, we'll take it slow together with an easy 3 mile jog on Sunday mornings. If you need to take a breather and walk, please feel free to let me know and we can slow down. All i ask is that you try your best! However, there is no pressure as this is a beginner friendly group! If you're interested in running together, feel free to join us anytime! We'll gather every Sunday morning at the Gapstow bridge. You can expect the pace to be anywhere between 10-13min mile pace. Our usual route will start from the Gapstow bridge then we will run up north to the reservoir and do a lap around. That should be about 3 miles. Depending on how people feel, we may jog back to the original meetup spot or we can walk back. We'll meet at 10:00 AM and aim to finish by 11:00 AM at the latest. Please bring the bare minimum as it may be difficult to find a place to store your stuff! Whether you're a beginner runner, looking to lose weight, or just want to run, everyone is welcome😁

BMW Hike

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.

Let's Hike Sky Top [Transportation Included]

**To attend this event, simply RSVPing on Meetup isn’t enough — you must book through our website to secure your spot.** **TO ATTEND YOU MUST BOOK ► [HERE](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/sky-top-05-30-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Sky Top** **Experience one of New York’s most rewarding hikes with a steady uphill climb leading to breathtaking summit views over the Shawangunk Ridge.** Enjoy the same iconic scenery as the Lemon Squeeze—without the narrow passages—while spotting soaring eagles and unique rock formations along the way. After the summit, descend along the peaceful shores of Lake Mohonk, where forested paths and tranquil waters create the perfect finish. This hike blends adventure, stunning views, and relaxation into an unforgettable outdoor escape. Pack your favorite sandwich and drink, we will have a snack break on the trail. *We’re getting away from the city to forget about timing, enjoy nature, and connect with others. If you’re looking to make new outdoorsy friends, you’ve found the perfect place. If you’re seeking a fast-paced group, this might not be the right fit.* 🗺️ About the Hike * Small Group Experience: 2 - 20 OutYorkers. * Hiking Route: [FootPath Map](https://footpathapp.com/routes/3175d4c9-0b48-4e50-934b-29030a6a2931) * Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * Elevation Gain: 1,158 ft. (353 mt) * Highest Elevation: 1,542 ft. (470 mt) * Lowest Elevation: 452 ft. (138 mt) * Hiking Distance: 5.59 mi. (9 km) * Hiking Time: 3h 30m. This could change according to the group pace. ✅ **Included:** **According to Selected Package.** ❌ **Not Included:** Anything not mentioned in the selected package. **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)**

Yoga + Hike: Blue Trail to Shorakkopoch Rock

This event is combined with AMC https://www.meetup.com/amcnynj/events/314870453/?eventOrigin=group_events_list 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

CONCRETE TO TRAILS (New Members): Ramapo Reservation

**[>> MUST REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000017jcX2AQ/act00020822)** **REGISTRATION OPENS: May 17, 2026 at 9:00 AM** Please register with the link above. MeetUp is not used for trip registration. **Trade sidewalks for dirt paths—no car needed!** **Concrete to Trails** bus trips make it easy to hike, explore, and meet fellow outdoor lovers just beyond the city. No experience required. This week we welcome new AMC members for spring hiking! A trip to Ramapo Valley County Reservation including a walk in the woods, a break by the lake and a snack you stored in your backpack (sunshine not guaranteed.) **Trip info:** * Activity rating: Moderate * Distance: 3.5 miles * Vertical gain: 750 feet * Terrain: Uneven, rocky, dirt, hilly * Bathrooms: Trailhead (start & finish) * Breaks: Reasonably spaced & mid-way **What to Bring:** * Sturdy hiking footwear * Weather appropriate clothing * 2+ liters of water * Lunch and/or snacks * Sun & Bug protection **Registration Details:** * Registration on the AMC website ([activites.outdoors.org](http://activites.outdoors.org/)) is required for each participant. * [Become an Appalachian Mountain Club Member](https://www.outdoors.org/get-involved/become-a-member/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SRCH-BD-Membership&utm_content=646623979096&utm_term=amc%20membership&campaign=701Ht0000021JlHIAU&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19637476529&gbraid=0AAAAADsKo9dnAqa1VJqH3LyYNhdACYyP0&gclid=CjwKCAjw1tLOBhAMEiwAiPkRHjOmW2vC430Svt3FwgGO8z7PBAbPlNSkkAgZ0OM4Md0NcputTWw5qhoC6uQQAvD_BwE&_gl=1*1xcg48k*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzU1NzAzNTMuQ2p3S0NBancxdExPQmhBTUVpd0FpUGtSSGpPbVcydkM0MzBTdnQzRndnR084ejdQQkFiUGxOU2trQWdaME9NNE1kME5jcHV0VFd3NXFob0M2dVFRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTU1MjExMjMwLjE3NzIyMDE1Mjg.*_ga*MTkxMjY5NzIyMS4xNzQ0ODIyNzcx*_ga_NDC0EQDH7W*czE3NzU1NjUwNTkkbzIzNSRnMSR0MTc3NTU3MDM1MyRqNjAkbDAkaDA.) **Meeting Info:** * The group will meet at 9:00 AM. * Final meeting details will be sent to all registered participants the day prior to the hike. * We do not currently allow independent transportation to the trailhead. All hikers in the group will be on the bus both directions to/from NYC. **Cost:** * $10 Appalachian Mountain Club members / $40 non-members **Refund Policy:** * For this trip, a refund is possible if you cancel online one week before the trip and your space can be filled. AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this activity if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic. [Join the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/get-involved/become-a-member/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SRCH-BD-Membership&utm_content=646623979096&utm_term=amc%20membership&campaign=701Ht0000021JlHIAU&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19637476529&gbraid=0AAAAADsKo9dnAqa1VJqH3LyYNhdACYyP0&gclid=CjwKCAjw1tLOBhAMEiwAiPkRHjOmW2vC430Svt3FwgGO8z7PBAbPlNSkkAgZ0OM4Md0NcputTWw5qhoC6uQQAvD_BwE&_gl=1*1xcg48k*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzU1NzAzNTMuQ2p3S0NBancxdExPQmhBTUVpd0FpUGtSSGpPbVcydkM0MzBTdnQzRndnR084ejdQQkFiUGxOU2trQWdaME9NNE1kME5jcHV0VFd3NXFob0M2dVFRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTU1MjExMjMwLjE3NzIyMDE1Mjg.*_ga*MTkxMjY5NzIyMS4xNzQ0ODIyNzcx*_ga_NDC0EQDH7W*czE3NzU1NjUwNTkkbzIzNSRnMSR0MTc3NTU3MDM1MyRqNjAkbDAkaDA.) *to get your discount today! Your membership supports hundreds of free or low-cost outdoor experiences, thousands of miles of trails, hundreds of thousands of acres of protected wilderness, outdoor leadership education, access to nature for everyone, and your local volunteer leaders.*