Step into a fantasy forest on this enchanting canoe camping trip
Our first overnight canoe trip of the year is also one of our most spectacular. The rush of fresh water in early spring means we can canoe on brooks and rivers that are often unaccessible by boat in the Catskills. Our first day of paddling will take us through meadows filled with wildflowers and unfurling fiddlehead ferns. We'll make a luxurious overnight camp in a tributary brook in the forest to enjoy a cozy night of great food and warm campfires. On our second day, we’ll explore ponds and rivers that become marshes and brooks by mid-summer. This special route is one few people know about and one of our favorite adventures of the spring.
Trip stats
🛶 1-2 miles of canoeing each day + less than 1/4 mile hike to the river and to camp over backcountry (trail-less) terrain
⛰️ No elevation gain during this trip
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate. This is a take-your-time canoe trip in shallow water with no rapids, falls, etc. Hiking is minimal with no elevation gain but we will be walking over backcountry terrain with no trail.
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 day of canoeing and adventure. Make your escape upstate worth every minute!
On this trip, our guides will share:
✨ One-of-a-kind destination: this trip is the definition of a hidden gem. In fact, we've never seen another person in this forest before!
🐸 Our route along this incredible backcountry brook will give us the opportunity to see herons, frogs, toads, fish, freshwater mussels, and more!
🛶 No canoe experience needed! Our guides will offer instruction and helpful tips throughout our trip.
🔥 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 the River
~12:30 Lunch on shore
~3:30 Hike to Backcountry Campsite + Camp Setup
~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime
Day Two
8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp
10:00-12:00 Canoe + River Exploration
12:00 Light Lunch + Hike to Van
~2:00-3:00 Van heads back to NYC
~12:30 Lunch on shore
~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:
🩴 Water shoes are great for while we're in the canoe!
🕶️ 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.
