Escape to the Adirondacks for five days of canoeing, unparalleled scenery, incredible fishing, stargazing, and more
Spend Fourth of July weekend in the most remote wilderness in New York State. Home to 58 lakes connected by countless rivers, dotted with hundreds of islands, and totally closed to all motorized craft, this is the largest canoe wilderness in the Northeast and offers amazing camping.
We’ll load our canoes and paddle deep into the wilderness, portaging (carrying) our special lightweight canoes from one pond to the next. Paddle, swim, and fish in lakes full of trout, explore the forest full of Great Blue Herons, and enjoy the beauty and serenity of this incredible wilderness in the warm July sun. With clear skies at night, see deep into the Milky Way from the middle of calm mountain lakes with loons calling in the background.
A truly unparalleled vacation, many of our adventurers come back year after year. We've been guiding this trip since 2012 (and exploring here for even longer) and our experience means we know the best fishing spots and techniques, the best places to camp to avoid the bugs, the best lakes for midnight star-gazing, and more.
No canoe experience necessary.
Trip stats
🥾+🛶 +/- 1-3 miles of hiking and canoeing each day; adjustable per group preference
⛰️ No elevation gain; optional hiking
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate. All levels are welcome and no canoe experience is necessary
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 extended 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: this hidden gem is one of the most stunningly beautiful places we've ever visited in New York State and beyond.
🦉 Forest interpretation and signs of wildlife like loons, moose, 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.
🎣 Fishing available
🩱Swimming available
🍃 This incredible forest is perfect for mindfulness activities like meditation, journaling, and more
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 and in the canoe guidance from an expert NYS licensed guide
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 + Canoe to Camp + Camp Setup
Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime
Day Two-Four
This trip has endless possibilities for adventure, and we generally make decision on what to do once we're in the woods. Here's a sample of our options:
Breakfast + Coffee
Swimming, fishing, optional hiking, exploring nearby lakes, moving to a new basecamp, etc.
Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime
Day Five
8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp
10:00-12:00 Return to Van
12:00 Lunch in town
1:00-3:00 Van heads back to NYC
~4:30 Rest stop
~8:00 Manhattan Drop Off
~8:30 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 + 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 here.
