Bushcraft 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.

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.

Catskill 3500: [Bushwhack] North Dome

**PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A PRE-PAY ONLY EVENT** Please read carefully: This event is being hosted by Adventure Untamed (https://www.adventureuntamed.com/trip/catskill-3500-bushwhack-north-dome/). **Please register directly through the website**. **You spot will only be held once you register and pay through the Adventure Untamed website.** **Transportation and licensed guides are included in the cost of the trip. All you have to do is show up!** Are you ready for a bushwhacking challenge? Rising to this challenge will allow us to traverse a beautiful, untouched area of Catskill wilderness. You’ll experience a true bushwhack (hiking off trail), and we’ll navigate using land features (handrails) and a map and compass. If we have time left in the day, we’ll and a peak and bushwhack over to Sherrill. **Note: Must have prior tall-peak hiking experience in the Catskill Mountains or Adirondack Mountains before joining a bushwhack. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to [info@adventureuntamed.com](mailto:info@adventureuntamed.com).** North Dome is a required for [Catskill 3500 Club](https://www.adventureuntamed.com/3500-club/) Membership and is #27 Tall Peak (elevation 3,610’). **What’s included**: * NY State Licensed and Wilderness First Responder Certified Guide * Transportation to and from NYC (if you would like to meet us at the trailhead, please email [info@adventureuntamed.com](mailto:info@adventureuntamed.com) for a discount) * Hike three Catskill tall peaks [Cancellation Policies](https://www.adventureuntamed.com/info/?tab=2) **Wear** * Hiking boots (**required**) * Weather-appropriate, moisture-wicking, athletic clothing (no cotton) * Wool or synthetic socks (no cotton) * Buff * Sun hat * Sunglasses **Pack** * Extra layers to adjust to changing weather conditions * Windproof/waterproof top and bottom layers that can fit over all other layers * Fleece / mid layer * Lunch * Ample Snacks * At least three (3) liters of water * Backpack * Sunscreen * Extra pair of wool socks * Trekking poles (optional) * A change of clothes for the ride back (optional) **Level:** CHALLENGING (https://www.adventureuntamed.com/info/?tab=1) **Mileage:** \~ 8 miles (mileage will vary, as this is an off-trail hike) **Elevation Gain:** 3,044 feet **Group Size:** 2 - 13 adventurers

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!

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.

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.

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?

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/).

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.

You're Invited! AMC Open House - New Members Welcome!

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000012vfx2AA/act00019524)** **Curious about AMC? Come on in!** Join us for a welcoming, community-centered Open House where you can learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club and how we connect people to the outdoors. Whether you’re a lifelong hiker, a weekend wanderer, or just beginning your outdoor journey, there’s a place for you here. For 150 years, AMC has been fostering the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. At our Open House, you’ll discover how we bring that mission to life through recreation, conservation, education, and advocacy across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. **What to Expect** * Meet AMC staff, volunteers, and members * Learn about local trips, programs, and volunteer opportunities * Explore how our conservation work protects the landscapes we all love * Get the inside scoop on lodging, outdoor experiences, and ways to get involved * Ask questions and find your next adventure **Why Attend?** Because the outdoors is for all of us. And the more we come together, the more we can do to protect it. You don’t need experience. You don’t need gear. You just need the desire to step outside and connect. So bring a friend, your curiosity, and your love for the outdoors. Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you are new to the AMC, a long-time member, or just curious about us. We can’t wait to welcome you! **Where to Meet** Meet at the Rivian Showroom at 461 West 14th Street in Manhattan. Light refreshments and community at 6:00pm with information sharing starting at 6:30pm.