A holistic day retreat in the Catskills with Herb Brooks

Engage with the forest on a deep, powerful level during this immersive sensory hiking experience with NYS licensed guide Herb Brooks. This full day retreat combines a gentle hike with intention setting, breathwork, deep listening, sensory work, and a sound meditation journey. Expect to leave the forest feeling connected to yourself and nature in a new, profound way.

Hike stats

🥾 2-3 mile easy hike along a beautiful spring in the Catskills
⛰️ Minimal elevation change
🧭 Difficulty: Easy. On-trail hiking 

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. 

About Herb Brooks: In addition to his experience as an outdoor hiking and backpacking guide, Herb has completed coursework in Nature Connected Coaching with the EarthBased Institute in Colorado. This trip combines his mindfulness practice with the healing and reflective power of nature.

A FULL day of adventure: Our all-inclusive day escapes include transportation, meals, and a full day of hiking and adventure. Make your escape upstate worth every minute!

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: 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

6:30 Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays
7:00 Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central
~8:30 Rest Stop
~9:45 Arrival at Trailhead
~10:00-3:00

• Sage, Palo smudging and intention setting to bless the experience
• Counted Breathwork
• Sensory Walk
• Silent Walk
• Lunch
• Sound meditation with hand and wind instruments
• Return ceremony
• Journaling session
• Reflections and gratitude Lunch along a gorgeous stream bank

~3:30 Van returns to the city
~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. Travel time are subject to many factors, including weather and traffic. 

What Do I Need to Bring With Me?

Must have
💧 2, 1-liter water bottles
🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes. Standard workout clothes are great for hiking
🥾 Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, trail runners, or hiking boots. We’ll let you know well in advance if conditions call for special footwear.
🧣A few extra layers of clothes 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 here.