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Skate on a Frozen Pond (3/7)
Skate on a Frozen Pond (3/7)
Skate on a Frozen Pond (3/7)
Skate on a Frozen Pond (3/7)

Skate on a Frozen Pond (3/7)

$ 149.00

Join Team USA Ice Skater Libby McGrosky to Skate on a Frozen Pond! 

Skating outdoors is a magical experience. Say goodbye to crowded rinks as we skate on natural ice on a frozen pond nestled in a Catskills winter wonderland, surrounded by the fresh mountain air.

A professional skating instructor, Libby will offer beginner level instruction and guided practice, as well as a refresher course for those with some experience.

Bonus - a huge bonfire with hot beverages, delicious hot food, and cozy warming areas right on shore for lunch or whenever you'd like to take a warming break

About your guide: Libby McGrosky is a Team USA ice skater with over 20 years of experience and a passion for bringing ice skating and nature together. They have represented USA in multiple international competitions, and they are currently a professional ensemble member with Ice Theatre of New York. They are also a coach at Wollman rink and coach for figure skating in Harlem. Originally from rural Pennsylvania, Libby combines their love of skating with a deep connection to the outdoors, and can’t wait to share this special experience with you!

Hike stats

🥾 N/A
⛰️ N/A
🧭 Difficulty: Beginner Appropriate

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, gourmet lunch and snacks during our adventure. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs. 
⛸ Skates provided

Schedule

6:30 Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays
7:00 Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central
~8:30 Rest Stop
~9:45 Arrival at Pond
~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
🥾 Footwear: Cozy winter boots, don't need to be hiking boots and Our Top 5 Tips for Winter Adventure

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.

 

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Most trips will depart at 6:30am near the Barclays Center and 7:00am near Grand Central. You will be notified in advance if departure times and locations differ for your trip.

    Yes! Your adventure includes a breakfast of fresh fruit and donuts and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive to the trailhead. On winter hikes, we serve a hot gourmet lunch and snacks, plus hot tea, coffee, and hot cocoa in the woods. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs.

    Snowshoes and/or microspikes are included with all winter adventures when required for trail conditions. For deep snow, we'll have snowshoes and for lighter snow and ice we will use microspikes. For some hikes, we'll use both!

    Wear comfortable, breathable clothes in layers. Start with a base layer of non-cotton material and follow with 2-3 layers of varying weight. Snow pants or ski pants are good, but not essential. Parka, shells, or other outer layers for your top should be wind resistant (most are). You can read more about clothing for winter day hikes here

    We will provide a detailed packing list based on conditions before your adventure. Below is a sample packing list:

    - 2, 1-liter water bottles
    - Headlamp
    - Sunglasses
    - Extra layers of clothes
    - Extra socks
    - Hat and gloves
    - Footwear: insulated hiking boots are ideal, but "around NYC" winter boots will work as well if insulated/waterproof.

    Your guides will provide all group gear (water filter, etc.). We do not require any specialized gear for our day hikes, and you most likely have everything you need already. We’re happy to answer questions and offer advice to ensure you have everything you need.

    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 suggested packing list, and more.

    Visit our FAQ page here.