Bushcraft New York

Introduction to Trout Fishing (5/25)

**[BOOK HERE](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/collections/all-guided-outdoor-adventures/products/introduction-to-trout-fishing-in-the-catskills)** ### **Catskills Fishing Experience: Cast, Learn & Connect** **Spend a full day fishing with an expert licensed guide in one of the Catskills’ legendary streams or brooks.** ### Adventure Snapshot 🎣 Activity: Guided fishing experience with casting instruction & riverside exploration ⏱️ Duration: Full-day adventure (\~12–13 hours including travel) 🥾 Distance: Less than 1 mile of light walking ⛰️ Elevation: Minimal 🧭 Difficulty: All levels welcome (beginner-friendly) 📍 Location: Catskills Region, NY 👥 Group Size: Small group experience Join us for a **full-day guided fishing adventure** in the scenic streams of the Catskills, led by a New York State licensed fishing guide. Whether you’re brand new to fishing or looking to refine your technique, this experience is designed to be both approachable and rewarding. We’ll begin the day with an introduction to fish behavior, followed by hands-on instruction in spin casting, including how to handle gear, tie knots, and choose the right lures. After practicing as a group, you’ll have the opportunity to spread out along the water and fish at your own pace, with guides nearby offering personalized tips and pointing out prime fishing spots. Set in a peaceful forest environment far from crowds, this experience offers more than just skill-building, it’s a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy a timeless outdoor tradition. ### What You’ll Learn 🎣 Fundamentals of spin casting, including lures, knots, and technique 🐟 How to read water and understand fish behavior 🌊 Where and how to find the best fishing spots in a stream 🧭 Best practices for responsible and sustainable fishing 🔥 Optional: How to responsibly harvest and prepare fish outdoors ### The Destination Backcountry Difference Why fish with us? Our NY State licensed guides are not just instructors, they are passionate outdoorspeople dedicated to creating meaningful, hands-on experiences in nature. This is more than a fishing trip. It’s a full day of adventure designed to help you build new skills while immersing yourself in one of New York’s most iconic natural landscapes. From expert instruction to time spent along quiet streams, every element of this experience is crafted to be both educational and deeply refreshing. ### What’s Included? 🚐 Round-trip transportation from NYC ☕ Breakfast: Fresh fruit, donuts, coffee, and tea for the ride upstate 🧀 Lunch: Healthy, gourmet lunch with snacks (vegetarian/vegan options available) 🎣 Guided fishing instruction and on-water support from an expert NYS licensed guide ### Schedule 6:30 AM Brooklyn pickup near Barclays 7:00 AM Manhattan pickup at Grand Central \~8:30 AM Rest stop \~9:00 AM Arrival and introduction to fishing fundamentals \~9:30 AM Group casting instruction and practice \~12:00 PM Lunch by the water \~1:00 PM Independent fishing with guide support \~3:30 PM Depart for NYC \~4:30 PM Rest stop \~7:00 PM Manhattan drop-off \~7:30 PM Brooklyn drop-off *All times are estimates. We adjust every experience to the pace and needs of the group.* ### What Do I Need to Bring With Me? **Must have** 💧 2, 1-liter water bottles 🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes (standard workout attire works great) 🥾 Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, trail runners, or hiking boots 🧣 Extra layers for warmth during breaks **Good to have** 🌧️ Rain shell 🕶️ Sunglasses 🧢 Hat *Note: No fishing experience or equipment is required. A valid New York State fishing license is required and must be obtained in advance.* ### 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.

Make Art and Crafts together

Artists and creatives of all skill levels are welcome, including aspiring creatives who are just starting out and professionals. Bring your drawing supplies or whatever creative project you're working on. Digital media like iPad sketching is ideal since the lighting might be a bit dim.

Hike Acotango and Sajama in Bolivia

Queens Fiber Crafters - Event in Jackson Heights

**Join us at Art Retail Therapy in Jackson Heights for the next Queens Fiber Crafters MeetUp in-person gathering. This is a social gathering of knitters, crocheters, hand spinners who come together to work on their own projects and enjoy the company of other fiber enthusiasts.** **Francisco of Art Retail Therapy has graciously agreed to host our group for its ongoing gatherings. As this Meet-Up has taken off we are changing the payment model to send through payment with your RSVP ($15). Cash, PayPal or Venmo is preferred. Please contact me for RSVP in cash or Venmo details. We have had many people sign-up and subsequently not attend, leaving those on a wait list unable to secure a place at the crafting table.** **This is a fun easy weeknight gathering of crafters. We look forward to meeting and sharing joy.** **All levels are welcome but** **do keep in mind that there is no instruction****.** **All attendees will need to be fully vaccinated to attend.**

BMW Hike

Tuesday Night 1/1 NLH (Bushwick)

Tuesday 1/1 NLH! text 408-355-4779 for a seat!

Wilderness First Aid & CPR Course; May 23rd-24th

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 - nearly 90% of all incidents\* and 50% of all serious injuries\* happen within just a few hours drive of NYC. (*\*Based on my experience.)* \-\-\-\-\- **If you are interested,** [register with Wilderness First Aid NYC](https://wildernessfirstaidnyc.com/course/bklync-may26/). \-\-\-\-\- [Offered by Wilderness First Aid NYC](https://wildernessfirstaidnyc.com/course/bklync-may26/) **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 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. **Wilderness First Aid Curriculum includes:** – Urban vs Wilderness Medicine – Intro to Wilderness Recreation Law & Liability – Basic Wilderness Medicine Guidelines – Intro to Wilderness Risk Management – Patient Assessment – Basic Life Support – Basic Traumatic Injuries – Red Flag Backcountry Medical Problems – Wilderness Anaphylaxis Training – Basic Environmental Medicine – Intro to Backcountry Communication Devices – Basic Documentation – Basics of Calling a Rescue Wilderness First Aid NYC is a provider of Desert Mountain Medicine curriculum. All courses meet the highest industry standards of wilderness first aid training curriculum according to [Desert Mountain Medicine ](https://desertmountainmedicine.com/)and the [Wilderness Medicine Education Collaborative](https://www.wildmededucationcollaborative.org/).

Hemlock and Crater Lake via Cemetery, Appalachian and Lake Trail (Hard)

Learn to Camp Overnight

**[BOOK HERE ](https://destinationbackcountryadventures.com/collections/all-guided-outdoor-adventures/products/learn-to-camp-overnight-5-10-11)** ### Discover the joys of camping with expert backcountry guides This overnight is perfect for anyone looking to spend their first night in the woods, or adventurers who would like to learn more about camping and improve their backcountry skills. On this chill basecamp camping trip, we'll take a gentle hike to a backcountry location for a weekend of relaxing in nature and exploring spectacular views, with the opportunity for fishing, and more. Enjoy time around the campfire, wake up to birdsong, meditate by the river, and find your own peace in the forest. Absolutely no outdoors experience is required for this trip and families with children of all ages are welcome. ### **Trip stats** 🥾 1-2 miles of moderate hiking to a backcountry camping location ⛰️ No elevation gain during this trip 🧭 Difficulty: Moderate. We will spend some time hiking off-trail to our camping destination and will set up a backcountry campsite. ### **The Destination Backcountry Difference** **Why hike with us? Expert guides.** Founded in 2011, our NY State-licensed guides are not merely hike leaders, they are ambassadors for the outdoors, dedicated to sharing their passion for nature with others. **A FULL weekend of** **adventure:** Our all-inclusive day escapes include transportation, meals, and a full weekend of adventure. Make your escape upstate worth every minute! **On this trip, our guides will share:** ✨ One-of-a-kind destination: experience a night camping in a magical Catskills forest 🦉 Forest interpretation and signs of wildlife like owls, deer, efts, and more 🔥 An incredible camping experience: redefine your idea of cozy camping and imagine a roaring campfire, a gourmet meal shared with your fellow adventurers, and a peaceful night sleep with a warm cup of coffee waiting for you in the morning. ### **What's Included?** 🚐 Transportation to and from NYC ☕ Breakfast: Your adventure includes a breakfast of fresh fruit and donuts and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive to the trailhead 🧀 Lunch + Dinner + Breakfast in the Woods: We will provide a healthy, gourmet lunch and snacks during our adventure. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs. 🌄 On trail guidance from an expert NYS licensed guide ### **Schedule** **Day One** 6:30 Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays 7:00 Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central \~8:30 Rest Stop \~10:00 Arrival at Trailhead + Hike to Camp + Camp Setup \~12:30 Lunch \~3:30 Backcountry Skills + Fire Building \~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime **Day Two** 8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp 10:00-12:00 Optional Hike + Camptime 12:00 Light Lunch + Hike to Van \~2:00-3:00 Arrival at trailhead + van heads back to NYC \~4:30 Rest stop \~7:00 Manhattan Drop Off \~7:30 Brooklyn Drop Off \*All times are estimates. We adjust every adventure to the pace and needs of the group. Our overnight trips are much more flexibile! Travel time are subject to many factors, including weather and traffic. ### **What Do I Need to Bring With Me?** **Must have** 🎒 Backpack (45L minimum, with hip belt 💤 Sleeping bag 🛏️ Sleeping pad 🍽️ Mess kit (fork, spoon, bowl and cup) 💧 2, 1-liter water bottles 🔦 Headlamp 🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes. Standard workout clothes are great for hiking 🥾 Footwear: sneakers or boots are perfect for this trip 🧣 Clothes: extra layers, top and bottom, 3 pairs of socks 🌧️ Rain shell ⛺ Tent: We have a limited number of tents available to borrow. Please let us know if you would like to borrow a tent. There is also the option to sleep under a tarp shelter, which your guide can help build, or to sleep under the stars if conditions permit. If you are NOT planning on bringing a tent, please let us know your preferences from above. **Good to have:** 🩴 Camp shoes 🕶️ 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 "FAQ") here.

Crevasse Rescue and Rope Skill Review

**Mountaineering Club of New York – Skills Session: Crevasse Rescue & Rope Techniques** 📍 *Central Park – Summit Rock (*[Google Maps Link](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Summit+Rock/@40.7831994,-73.9726142,628m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89c25890046b9e25:0xf6ff3153d81f37a2!8m2!3d40.7831954!4d-73.9700393!16s%2Fg%2F122pl5w3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDYwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)*)* 🕙 *2:00 PM – 4:00 PM* Join the Mountaineering Club of New York for a hands-on refresher focused on **crevasse rescue techniques** and essential **rope skills**—right in the heart of Central Park. Whether you're prepping for a glacier expedition or just looking to stay sharp, this session is designed for all skill levels. We’ll cover\*: 🧗‍♂️ 2:1, 3:1, and 6:1 hauling systems 🪢 Basic knots and friction hitches 🧵 Rope team travel We suggest wearing comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty, as a lot of the rope work is done from a kneeling position in the grass. If you have a harness, carabiners (ideally 4 non-lockers and 4 lockers), or even a rope, feel free to bring them - we'll have some extra harnesses and carabiners as well, so don't worry if you don't have those things. Otherwise, the only thing you'll need is a sense of adventure! No snow required—just imagination and some open grass. \*While some members of the club have been trained by guides we are not a professional guiding service and are not providing an alternative to formal training in safe mountaineering practices. Please seek formal training before attempting glacier travel.

Short Hikes in the Western Catskills

It will be getting warm (but not yet buggy) in the Catskills, and you can hike several smaller hills in one day. We'll drive Friday afternoon to the western Catskills and park and camp at Little Pond State Campground N. of Hwy. 152/54 Beaver Kill Road in the Middle Mountain Wild Forest. Saturday morning, we’ll make a loop hike of Touchmenot Mt. and Cabot Mt. (3-4 miles round-trip), then drive SW on 54 and 152 (Beaverkill Road), then N. on Smith Hill Rd. and park between Middle Mountain and Mary Smith Hill. We’ll go and down Middle (3 miles R/T), then to a scenic view to the W. of the parking lot (1 mile R/T). Time permitting, we'll drive E. on 54 and Mill Brook Rd. and park on the latter, and hike SW to Balsam Lake Mt. firetower, and then to the overlook N. of Beecher Lake (8 miles R/T). If we don't hike Balsam Lake Sat., we'll do it Sun. morning. If we do hike it on Sat., on Sun. we'll park on Hill Rd. and hike NE to viewpoints on Dry Brook Ridge and back (4 miles), then drive home. We can cook at the campsite, or go eat N. in Margaretville, Arkville or Fleischmanns. The weekend should be less hot and buggy than ones in June and later, but no promises. If the weather is bad that weekend, rain check for two weekends later, at the end of May. As usual, the MU Location feature is r@t@rded, and won't recognize the campsite address, but puts it in Brooklyn! (Actual) campsite address: **549 Little Pond State Campground Road, Andes, NY 13731.** **Campsite reservations link: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/little-pond-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NY&parkId=495**

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.