Bikepacking New York

NYC-ADV Monthly Mixer /// 1st Thursdays

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.

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?

Prospect Park Brompton Ride + Yoga + Moonlight Picnic

Anyone looking for inspiration and community for your wellness practice? Let's ride the Prospect Park Loop with a friendly group of Bromptons and enjoy free yoga in the beautiful Long Meadow. **Meet (6:15pm)** Meet us at the park entrance across from Grand Army Plaza at 6:15pm. **Brompton Ride (6:30 pm)** This is a chill ride. We'll do one loop around the park at moderate speed, ending at Prospect Park's Long Meadow for free yoga. View the Brompton route at this link: [Ride with GPS](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46497135) **Free Yoga (7:00 pm)** Prospect Park Alliance presents free, outdoor yoga on the Long Meadow in a low-pressure, beautiful environment with hundreds of New Yorkers. You can read more and sign up for yoga on the [Prospect Park Yoga](https://www.prospectpark.org/visit-the-park/things-to-do/yoga-park/) official site. **Moonlight Picnic (8:00 pm)** After yoga we'll set up a picnic in Long Meadow. Please bring a blanket, beverage, and snacks to share. Sunset is at 8:30 and there will be a beautiful sliver of a moon. **What to Bring** * Picnic blanket, beverage, and snacks to share * Yoga mat (or towel) * The ride ends after dark. Please ensure you have a fully charged head lamp and rear lamp. **Important Notes** * Please sign up *in advance* for free yoga via the [Prospect Park Yoga](https://www.prospectpark.org/visit-the-park/things-to-do/yoga-park/) official site. (You only need to do this once per summer.) * We depart on the ride at exactly 6:30pm - this is to ensure we're on time for yoga. If you're running late, you can meet us at Long Meadow. * Prospect Park restroom opening times are inconsistent - they will likely be closed. Please plan accordingly and use the bathroom before arrival. * Free yoga is provided by Prospect Park and anyone can sign up (i.e. no need to join this meetup unless you're joining the ride and picnic.) **Weather and Cancellation** We'll cancel the ride if the weather looks rainy, or the ground is wet from prior downpours. It's no fun to do yoga or picnics on wet grass! We'll announce any cancellations by noon the day of the ride. Our Community Rules: 1. Helmets are required. Lights are required if riding in darkness. 2. No one gets left behind! 3. Be kind and encourage others. 4. Welcome new experiences and people. 5. This space is for gathering, not for selling. 6. Be honest about your ability to participate BY ATTENDING this event you ACKNOWLEDGE and ACCEPT the following: 1. I ACKNOWLEDGE, agree, and represent that I understand the nature of bicycling activities and that I am qualified, in good health, and in proper physical condition to participate in such activity. I further acknowledge that the ride-out will be conducted over public pavements and facilities open to the public, and upon which the hazards of traveling are to be expected. I further agree and warrant that if, at any time, I believe conditions to be unsafe, I will immediately discontinue further participation. 2. I FULLY UNDERSTAND that (a) BICYCLING ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS AND DEATH ("Risks"); (b) these Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating in the ride-out, the conditions in which the ride-out takes place, or the negligence of others; (c) there may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time; and I FULLY ACCEPT AND ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS AND ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSSES, COSTS, AND DAMAGES I may incur as a result of my participation; (d) I acknowledge that Brompton Bicycle, event organizers, ride leaders, and volunteers will not be liable for any accidents or damages through this ride-out. DO NOT REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO BE SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING.

BMW Hike

Weekly Prospect Park Wednesday Morning Ride

Every Wednesday! Anyone looking for inspiration and community for your morning ride? Let's ride the Prospect Park Loop with a pack of Bromptons. We'll ride two times around Prospect Park. Afterwards, we'll have lattes, croissants and conversation at a bakery cafe 4 blocks from the park (or zoom off to work if your time is limited). This is intended as a short and sweet ride before your morning commute and people typically depart the cafe around 9-9:30am. You can view the route on [Ride with GPS](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46497135) *We stick to our departure time: 7:35am* *As a morning ride, we need to ensure a consistent start time so people can plan around it for their work day. Thus, we'll unfold and ride at 7:35am. If you are running late, please post in the comments and we'll meet you for the second loop.* Happy Riding! BY ATTENDING this event you ACKNOWLEDGE and ACCEPT the following: 1. I ACKNOWLEDGE, agree, and represent that I understand the nature of bicycling activities and that I am qualified, in good health, and in proper physical condition to participate in such activity. I further acknowledge that the ride-out will be conducted over public pavements and facilities open to the public, and upon which the hazards of traveling are to be expected. I further agree and warrant that if, at any time, I believe conditions to be unsafe, I will immediately discontinue further participation. 2. I FULLY UNDERSTAND that (a) BICYCLING ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS AND DEATH ("Risks"); (b) these Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating in the ride-out, the conditions in which the ride-out takes place, or the negligence of others; (c) there may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time; and I FULLY ACCEPT AND ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS AND ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSSES, COSTS, AND DAMAGES I may incur as a result of my participation; (d) I acknowledge that Brompton Bicycle, event organizers, ride leaders, and volunteers will not be liable for any accidents or damages through this ride-out. DO NOT REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO BE SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING.

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.

Urban Athletics: Bike the NYC Bridges by Night

The other night I was on my bike riding around town and was struck by how dramatically the vibe of the city changes once the sun sets. People get out on their cycles and enjoy this town during the day but most of us put them away when the evening comes. That's like ordering a slice of pizza, throwing away the cheese and only eating the crust -- you're only getting half of what makes the experience great. **The plan...** We are going to take a nighttime tour of the East River bridges, we'll wheel through three boroughs and cross over five spans -- the Queensboro, Pulaski, Williamsburg, Manhattan, and Brooklyn bridges. This ride will highlight the stunning vistas only viewable from our water crossings and take in different views of the sparkling nighttime Manhattan skyline. If there was ever a time to go through the hassle of carrying your camera with you, this will be it. **The important stuff...** • This is going to be a casually-paced ride of about 17 miles. Most of the ride will take place in bike lanes but there will be parts with some automobile congestion. You must be comfortable riding in a group and in traffic. Lights and reflectors for your bike are also REQUIRED by law. **Helmets are mandatory otherwise you will not be allowed to ride with the group.** • This is a night ride so dress to be seen by motorists and pedestrians -- bright or reflective clothing is a must. • Make sure your bike is in good working order before the meetup and bring a lock in case we need to leave our cycles. Also bring a patch repair kit, air pump, and spare inner tube. • Rain cancels the meetup. Here is the map of the ride: TO COME

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.

Drinks, hikes and sunsets at The Baylander 🍺🌅

Let's give this another shot! Hope the weather cooperates this time! This is a boat with a bar on the deck. Bring warm clothing as it will get chilly on the deck. If the weather doesn't cooperate or it is too chilly we will move next door to the Expat bar. I will update everyone the day of the event in the comments section. We will meet at 7:30pm there! Everyone is welcome to come even if you are new! Let talks about our past and future hiking adventures! This is a super fun event and a chance to meet others before going on hikes outside the city.

Croatia Hiking National Parks and Multisport Adventure Tour

Get ready to have your mind blown multiple times over turquoise waters, frothing waterfalls, badass mountain summits, and medieval towns. Croatia will turn anyone into an annoying romantic. Book your week-long women’s multi-sport adventure tour featuring hiking, e-biking, mountain-summiting, sea kayaking, snorkeling, and plenty of Adriatic Sea swimming. You’ll explore ancient cities tripping through architectural history from ancient Roman, Venetian Gothic, Romanesque, and Medieval. Cycle through stupid-pretty Istrian Peninsula hilltop towns. Bust your booties through Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica National Parks. Climb a freaking Via Ferrata to summit Bojin Kuk. And float through the 80+ islands that make up Kornati National Park. BRB we need to pick our jaw up from off the ground. **EXPLORE ZAGREB, CROATIA’S CAPITAL CITY** You and your Explorer Chick entourage will geek over all the architecture porn – from medieval stone gates to Gothic cathedrals. We’ll visit all the “musts” and gather for a welcome dinner in the Old Town. Did you just change your Insta handle to Croatia_Cutie? We are obsessed with you! **E-BIKES, WINE, AND TRUFFLES IN THE ISTRIAN COUNTRYSIDE** What could be better than seeing tiny cutie towns? TASTING the wares of those tiny cutie towns! We’ll cruise the Parenzana trail on our E-Bikes, stopping in Grožnjan, Oprtalj, and Motovun for coffee, olive oil tastings, and a spectacular lunch. By evening, we’ll cycle to the top of Motovun for a stunning gargoyle view of the Adriatic cities. You won’t leave Istria without loading your bike down with bottles of wine and a tummy full of truffles. **HIKE PLITVICE LAKES AND PAKLENICA NATIONAL PARKS** You’re gonna see the kind of natural beauty that shows up in the screensavers of Apple products. The Instagram world is stark raving mad over Plitvice Lakes because of its unique system of lakes and waterfalls. A rock climbing and hiking paradise awaits you in Paklenica National Park with views of the Adriatic Sea from your very own mountain summit. **KORNATI NATIONAL PARK SPEED-BOAT AND SPLIT SEA-KAYAKS** The best views of this gorgeous region are often gleaned from the sea. Across two days, we’ll explore the island systems via speedboat and sea-kayak, leaving plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and floating otter-style on your back. You are basically a mermaid now and have to deal with mermaid things like schools of fish, coral spottings and island lunches. You poor thing. **Adventure Highlights:** * E-Bike through Croatia’s “Tuscany” tasting Wine, Olive Oil, and Truffles along the way * Discover charming hilltop medieval towns on the Istria Peninsula * Truffle Hunt with a local in the forests of Motovun * Hike the lower and upper falls of the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park * Soak in sunsets over the Adriatic from beautiful viewpoints * Climb a Via Ferrata to the summit of Bojin Kuk in Paklenica National Park * Enjoy the background music of Zadar’s Sea Organ at sunset * Explore Kornati National Park by speedboat with swimming, snorkeling, and a seafood lunch * Sea Kayak to a secluded beach off Split with more swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping * Get lost in the narrow streets of Split while enjoying a cone of gelato or a glass of wine * Kick back in 3-4 Star boutique hotels throughout your adventure with fabulous views that pair well with a cocktail * Relax with a comprehensive itinerary that makes everything in-between easy. * Geek out with encouraging and supportive 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-croatia-hiking-national-parks-and-multisport-adventure-tour/](https://explorerchick.com/adventures/womens-croatia-hiking-national-parks-and-multisport-adventure-tour/) **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)

Urban Reset Overnight Retreat (6/12-14)

**[BOOK HERE](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/collections/all-guided-outdoor-adventures/products/urban-reset-overnight-retreat)** ### Urban Reset Overnight: A Catskills Mindfulness Retreat **Extend your reset beyond the day with an immersive overnight experience in the forest.** ### Adventure Snapshot 🌿 Activity: Mindfulness retreat, guided hiking & overnight camping experience ⏱️ Duration: 3 days / 2 nights 🥾 Distance: \~7 miles over three days ⛰️ Elevation: \~1,700 ft gain and loss (includes summit of Big Indian Mountain) 🧭 Difficulty: Moderate 📍 Location: Catskill Mountains, NY 👥 Group Size: Small group experience **What if the reset didn’t end at sundown?** Our Urban Reset experience, breathwork, sound meditation, sensory walks, and deep forest immersion, unfolds over three days in the Catskills. With more time in nature, the reset deepens: the quiet that settles after dark, the stars overhead, the sound of a nearby stream, and waking slowly to birdsong and morning light. Led by NYS-licensed guide and nature-connected coach Herb Brooks, this three-day retreat expands on the core elements of our signature Urban Reset, creating space for a more gradual arrival, fuller days in the forest, and a more integrated close to the experience. On day one, we transition out of the city and into the mountains, arriving at camp and settling in with a guided hike, grounding practices, and an opening circle to set intentions for the days ahead. As night falls, we gather for a shared meal, light sound meditation, and a chance to ease into the stillness of the forest. Day two offers a full, unhurried day of immersion. We begin slowly with a mindful morning before setting out on a guided hike to the summit of Big Indian Mountain. The afternoon invites rest, reflection, and solo time in nature, followed by sensory practices and a deeper evening experience of sound, connection, and stargazing. On day three, we turn toward integration. Through gentle breathwork, reflection, and a closing ceremony, we create space to carry the experience forward before hiking out and returning to the city. This experience blends mindfulness, movement, and time in nature, offering a more complete reset, one that unfolds gradually and stays with you long after you leave the forest. ### What You'll Learn 🌬️ Breathwork techniques to calm the mind and regulate the nervous system 👣 Mindfulness practices including sensory awareness and silent walking 🎵 The role of sound and vibration in meditation and relaxation 🌿 How nature immersion supports mental clarity and emotional well-being 🧘 Techniques for reflection, intention setting, and personal reset 🏔️ How physical movement and time in nature work together to restore balance ### The Destination Backcountry Difference Why reset with us? Our NY State licensed wilderness guides are not just hike leaders—they are passionate facilitators dedicated to helping people reconnect with nature in meaningful ways. This experience is led by Herb Brooks, a wilderness guide and nature-connected coach trained through the EarthBased Institute in Colorado. Herb brings together mindfulness practices and outdoor experience to create a retreat that is both grounding and transformative. This is more than a wellness experience. It’s an opportunity to step fully away from daily routines and allow the natural environment to shape your reset. By the end of the retreat, you’ll leave feeling grounded, refreshed, and more connected—to yourself and to the natural world. ### What's Included? 🚐 Transportation to and from NYC ☕ Breakfast: Fresh fruit, donuts, and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive 🍽️ Meals: Gourmet lunches, a campfire dinner, and breakfast in the woods. Vegetarian and vegan options available, and we’re happy to accommodate dietary needs and allergies 🏕️ Group camping gear (tents available to borrow) 🌄 Full guidance from Herb Brooks, NYS licensed guide and nature-connected coach ### Schedule **Day One** Between noon–3pm TBD Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays 12:30–3:30pm TBD Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central Rest Stop Arrival at Trailhead + Guided Hike to Camp + Camp Setup Opening Circle + Intention Setting (sage / palo santo) Campfire Dinner + Light Sound Meditation + Stargazing until Bedtime **Day Two** 8:00–10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Slow Morning Wake-Up 10:00–1:30 Guided Summit Hike + Mindfulness + Lunch During Hike \~1:30–3:30 Rest + Hammock Time + Journaling + Optional Solo Wanders \~3:30–5:30 Sensory Forest Immersion + Silent Walk + Nature Connection Practices \~6:00 Campfire Dinner + Group Reflection + Sound Bath + Stargazing until Bedtime **Day Three** 8:00–10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Breathwork Session 10:00–12:30 Creative Nature Practice (journaling / sit spot / group sharing) 12:30 Light Lunch + Integration Circle + Closing Ceremony \~2:00–3:00 Pack Up Camp + Hike to Van \~4:30 Rest Stop \~7:00 Manhattan Drop Off \~7:30 Brooklyn Drop Off *All times are intentionally flexible. We adjust every experience to the needs and pace of the group.* ### What Do I Need to Bring With Me? ### Must have 🎒 Backpack (daypack is fine — no heavy gear required) 💤 Sleeping bag 🛏️ Sleeping pad 💧 2, 1-liter water bottles 🔦 Headlamp 🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable layers suitable for hiking and sleeping outdoors 🥾 Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, trail runners, or hiking boots ### Good to have **🌧️** Rain shell 🕶️ Sunglasses 🧢 Hat 🩴 Camp shoes ### 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.