An adventurous and restorative backpacking basecamp in an old-growth forest in the Catskills 

Escape the crowds and venture off the grid and deep into the heart of the Slide Mountain Wilderness this Memorial Day weekend. We'll explore one of the most stunning landscapes in the Catskills—an old-growth, primeval forest that has remained almost untouched since the glaciers retreated 18,000 years ago.

Your guide will lead you off-trail for most of the trip, setting up a basecamp near a gorgeous river in a valley deep in the wilderness for both nights. During the day, we'll explore along the river banks and bushwhack (hike off-trail) to one or more nearby 3500' peaks. This trip offers challenging hiking along with plenty of time to relax by the river and decompress.

Trip stats

🥾Approx. 3-4 mile hike to basecamp; optional 4+miles hiking over the course of the weekend from camp (without overnight gear)
⛰️ No elevation gain to basecamp; optional hiking to nearby summits (~1000' elevation gain)
🧭 Difficulty: Challenging. We will be hiking on-trail and off-trail to reach out camping destination. 

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 like no other
🦉 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.
 🎣 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 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
~9:45 Arrival at Trailhead + Hike to Camp + Camp Setup
~12:30 Lunch
~1:30-5:00 Camptime (optional fishing, swimming, backcountry skills, etc.)
~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime

Day Two

8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee 
10:00-2:30 Optional Hike + Lunch During Hike
~2:30-5:00 Camptime
~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime

Day Three

8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp
10:00-12:00 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.