Explore a Hidden Gem!
Just to the west of the insanely popular Slide Mountain Wilderness, Balsam offers a serene hike through snow-capped trees and excellent summit views. From the banks valley streams frozen into , rising through groves of untouched old-growth forest, this hike is a guide favorite.
Bonus - a huge bonfire with our lunch of hot beverages and delicious hot food.
Hike stats
🥾 ~5 miles
⛰️ ~1700' elevation gained/lost
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
🥾Guide Notes: Perfect for your first Catskill peak or first winter peak. Required winter peak for your Catskill 3500 Club membership
The Destination Backcountry Difference
Why hike with us? Expert guides. Founded in 2011, our decades of experience guiding and teaching translates to a more comfortable, enjoyable, an d safer experience for you. 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 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, hot, gourmet lunch with hot beverages and snacks during our adventure. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs.
🥾 We'll provide snowshoes, micro-spikes, or a combination of the two.
Schedule
6:30 Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays
7:00 Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central
~8:30 Rest Stop
~9:45 Arrival at Trailhead
~12:30 Lunch
~4:00 Board van back to NYC
~6:30 Manhattan Drop Off
~7:00 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
🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes in layers, with added insulation. See How to Dress for Winter Adventure and Our Top 5 Tips for Winter Adventure
🥾 Footwear: Cozy winter boots, don't need to be hiking boots.
❓ We're always happy to answer questions to help you prepare, just call, message, or email!
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.!
