A chill basecamp camping trip with spectacular views
This perfect camping trip for beginner adventurers combines moderate hiking with a super chill basecamp. Enjoy a crackling campfire, meditate by a stream, journal in the woods—you do you, but in nature. Our destination in the famed Catskills Escarpment, which rises abruptly from the Hudson Valley along the eastern edge of the Catskills, providing jaw-dropping views. We'll visit the incredible ledges and cliffs, that inspired the Hudson River Valley School of Painters and authors like James Fenimore Cooper, including Poet’s Ledge, Artist’s Rock, and Inspiration Point.
Trip stats
🥾 2-3 miles of moderate hiking to a backcountry camping location
⛰️ Minimal elevation gain during this trip
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate. We will spend some time hiking off-trail to our camping destination and will set up a backcountry campsite.
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 weekend of adventure. Make your escape upstate worth every minute!
On this trip, our guides will share:
✨ One-of-a-kind destination: experience a night camping in a magical Catskills forest
🦉 Forest interpretation and signs of wildlife like owls, deer, efts, 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.
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 Camp + Camp Setup
~12:30 Lunch
~3:30 Chill time + camp skill instruction (optional!)
~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime
Day Two
8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp
10:00-12:00 Optional Hike + Camptime
12:00 Light Lunch + Hike to Van
~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:
🩴 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.
