Day Trips
Canoeing, Camping & Hiking in the Adirondacks

Friday, August 14 > Departure, Canoe instruction and Camping

Departing New York City Friday morning, we will head into the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, the largest wilderness area in New York. Along the way, we will stop for lunch and bathroom breaks. Upon arrival, we will outfit ourselves, rig the vessels and hit the water for our first canoe lesson. This afternoon, we will paddle 5 miles through and portage twice before making camp for the weekend.

Saturday, August 15 > Paddling and Portage

After a hearty breakfast, we will pack a small bag and leave camp for the day- with empty canoes this time. A short paddle will take us to the start of St. Regis Mountain. The path follows a short but steep route that brings us to the 2,874-foot summit, from where you can see some 30 lakes and ponds and countless mountain peaks. Once our photo-op has been deemed satisfactory, we will then descend back to our canoes and explore the surrounding waters. Activities for the afternoon include further canoe instruction, swimming, sunbathing, boat games, learning loon calls and snacking. Tonight you can relax around the campfire while your guides prepare your gourmet backcountry meal.

Sunday, August 16 > Paddling and Return to Civilization

Today we break camp and slowly make our way back to civilization. Even through it is our last day, we have plenty to see and some newly acquired paddling skills to put to the test. Our voyage snakes its way through the calm and protected waters of Bear, Little Long, Green and St. Regis lakes–all before landing at little clear pond and our take out for the trip. Once disembarked, we will de-rig our canoes, return our gear and head back to NYC by 8:00pm.

Overview > Adventures at All Skill Levels

We offer adventures for everyone, no matter what your skill level. This guide will help you decide which trip is right for you.

1. Activity

   How long (in hours) you may be active every day during the trip.

2. Distances

   You should feel confident that you would be able to complete these distances every day of your trip.

3. Surfaces

   What types of terrain you may encounter and should be prepared for on your trip.

4. Elevation Change

   The largest elevation change you may encounter on your trip.

5. Altitude

   The highest elevation you may reach on your trip.

Level 1 > Laid-Back, Unhurried, Restful

1. Activity

   1 – 3 hours

2. Distances

   Walk or hike less than 3 miles

3. Surfaces

   Flat terrain

4. Elevation Change

   Little or none

5. Altitude

   Less than 3,000 feet

Level 2 > Easy Active — Perfect for Active First-Timers

1. Activity

   2 – 5 hours

2. Distances

   Hike up to 6 miles, cycle 10 – 30 miles most days

3. Surfaces

   Flat or rolling terrain with some steeps possible

4. Elevation Change

   Up to 1,500 feet per day

5. Altitude

   Up to 6,000 feet

Level 3 > Moderate — for Novices & Above

1. Activity

   4 – 6 hours most days

2. Distances

   Hike up to 10 miles, cycle 20 – 40 miles most days

3. Surfaces

   Rolling or mountainous terrain with some steeps

4. Elevation Change

   Up to 2,000 feet per day

5. Altitude

   Up to 10,000 feet

Level 4 > Vigorous — Recommended for Fit Travelers with Basic Skills

Experience required.

1. Activity

   5 – 8 hours most days

2. Distances

   Hike up to 12 miles, cycle 30 – 50 miles most days

3. Surfaces

   Mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents and uneven trails

4. Elevation Change

   3,000 feet per day

5. Altitude

   Up to 14,000 feet

Level 5 > Strenuous — Very Fit or Experienced Travelers

Experience required; doctor’s release may be required (if so, will be noted in trip description).

1. Activity

   10 plus hours per day

2. Distances

   Hike 12 or more miles, cycle 50 miles most days

3. Surfaces

   Remote mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascent and descents, uneven trails with loose features

4. Elevation Change

   Up to 4,000+ feet per day

5. Altitude

   May well exceed 14,000 feet