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May Schedule

Sat.-Mon., May 3-5. Finger Lakes Trail Backpack.

We'll stomp along the Connecticut Hill section including some 'Gorge-ous' views. 8-13 mi. per day over generally moderate/hilly terrain as we look for early spring wildflowers. Experienced, self-sufficient backpackers only. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. CL Gretchen Zierick CLR Art Portmore 201-327-4039 7-9 p.m. weekdays. (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 3-4. AT in CT Yoga Backpack.

Approx. 17 miles over easy terrain at a moderate pace to allow time for stretching, meditation, yoga practice and photo ops. Limited to 8 participants. Beginners in good physical condition with proper gear welcome. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Frank Zarb W:718-739-4229x3 C 718-908-5124 AL Ben Spang C 203-249-2701 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 10-11. Backpack Leaders Naturalist Training.

A professional environmental educator/birder/naturalist will lead us on exploratory adventures in this beautiful Catskills setting. We'll learn to identify the “Top 10” trees, wildflowers, critters and birds in the northeast forests — knowledge you'll be able to share with participants on your own backpacks. A special training weekend, hosted by the Backpacking Committee, for AMC NY-NoJ Chapter Backpack Ls only. Cabin accommodations at the magnificent Frost Valley YMCA in Claryville, NY. Two lunches, dinner, breakfast included. No charge to Ls. Register early on the Chapter website, www.amc-ny.org., as space is limited to 8 certified Ls/Ls in training. Rain or shine. LR Melanie Simmerman 212-860-1044 NCA 9 p.m. (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 10-11. New Backpacker's Weekend in Harriman.

Beginner backpack designed for those with some hiking experience who want to try sleeping in the woods. A mid-day out on Sun. will guarantee time to see Mom on Mother's day. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Tom McArdle 914-762-8162 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 17-18. Thunder Swamp Beginner's Backpack (PA).

A leisurely 2-day hike of approx. 15 mi. through gently rolling hills and past numerous water sources in eastern PA's Delaware St. Forest. A great chance to comfortably learn backpacking skills and work-up your endurance for the rest of the season. Limited to 8 backpackers in good physical condition with proper gear. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. L Jonathan Frankfort C 201-314-8015, H:201-795-2291 NCA 9 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 17-18. Windham & Blackhead Range Backpack.

A fairly short but moderately strenuous hike of approx. 15 mi. in the northern Catskills, including 4 peaks over 3500 ft. Some steep climbs over rugged terrain, with excellent views. Steady pace with limited stops; not suitable for beginners. Limited to 8 strong, experienced backpackers in good physical condition with proper gear. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. L Debbie Melita C 646-645-5667 . ALR Valerie McClean, C 917-599-6658 NCA 9 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat., May 17. Lightweight Backpacking Seminar/Hike.

For those who would love to try backpacking but don't want to carry 35-40 lbs. Limited number of participants will day hike in Harriman Park 6-7 miles & try carrying L 's fully-packed packs: one lightweight (approx. 25 lbs. w/food & water) and one ultra-light (approx. 20 lbs. w/food & water). We'll set up camp and review gear, even cook a typical camp dinner. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. ALR Christine Benton 718-768-7937 NCA 9 p.m. AL Melanie Simmerman 212-860-1044 NCA 9 p.m . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., May 24-26. Delaware Water Gap/Kittatinny Backpack.

Hike 30 mi. at a moderate pace on this 2-night backpack on a very scenic section of the Appalachian Trail in NJ. Mostly ridge hiking with lots of great views and a side trip to Buttermilk Falls. Strong beginners welcome but must be in good physical condition with proper gear and should contact L before registration. Limited to 8 backpackers. Possible Fri. night car shuttle. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Fred Mader H:973-442-2482 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., May 24-26. Fisherman's Trail Backpack.

A 3-day hike in the Catskills over Peekamoose, Table and Slide, with a short but difficult bushwhack and camping by the Neversink River. Moderate mileage and pace with time to enjoy scenery, river, and camping experience. Strenuous climbs, short rock scrambles and ladders. Not for beginners or fast pacers who won't wait. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. ALR Christine Benton 718-768-7937 NCA 9 p.m. AL Ron Gonzalez H:718-963-2678 C 610-428-5793 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., May 24-26. Green Mts. of VT Backpack - Part 3.

A continuation of my Sep. & Nov. 07 backpacks. The Long & Appalachian Trails follow rolling terrain at elevations from 2000-3500 ft. Stratton Mtn. (3936') provides sweeping views. Total of 40 mi. at a moderate pace. Arrive trailhead Fri. eve. Should have some experience & be in good physical shape. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Russ Faller . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Wed., May 28. Intro to Backpacking Indoor Workshop.

Upper West Side Location, 6-7:30 p.m. Learn practical information about backpacking: we'll cover equipment, preparation, principles of Leave No Trace, answer questions and talk about upcoming trips. To register, call L Laurie Wolko-Jordan 212-580-3075 AL Debbie Melita C 646-645-5667 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., May 31-Jun 1. Devil's Path – Sugarloaf to Hunter Backpack.

Approx. 20 mi. of somewhat difficult terrain with steep climbs and descents, and nice views! Limited to 8 Backpackers in good physical condition, with some experience and proper gear. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Frank Zarb W:718-739-4229x3 C 718-908-5124 AL Mike Denaro C 631-576-5869 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

June Schedule

Fri.-Sun., Jun. 6-8. VT AT/Glastenbury Loop Backpack.

A 3-day trip of approx. 38 miles on the AT and side trails. Hike from MA/VT border to sweeping views on Glastenbury fire tower, then loop south to end near Bennington, Vt. Faster pace and longer miles (avg. 14 mi. per day) over moderate terrain; not suitable for beginners. Option to arrive Thu. night to camp in area. Limited to 6 experienced backpackers in excellent physical condition. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Debbie Melita C 646-645-5667 AL Lester Staib C 908-963-0381 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., Jun. 7-9. Panther/Giant Ledge & Burroughs Range Backpack.

A 3-day hike of approx. 22 miles over Panther, Wittenberg, Cornell and Slide, the highest peak in the Catskills. Magnificent views with time to enjoy them. Possible necessity of carrying extra water on day 2. Moderate pace; strenuous climbs, short rock scrambles and ladders. Not for beginners or fast pacers who won't wait. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Christine Benton 718-768-7937 NCA 9 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 14-15. Northeast Catskills Backpack.

A moderately paced backpack over Tremper Mtn. to Roaring Kill, near Elka Park. Camp on beautiful Warners Creek, where you can expect solitude. We'll follow the new Long Path/Warners Creek Trail extension over Daley Ridge. Total of approx. 17.5 mi. with a few steep climbs. Must be in good physical condition. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. L Russ Faller . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 14-15. Wilderness First Aid for Backpackers/Hikers.

Special backcountry emergency medicine course taught by volunteer AMC instructors. On-trail setting to simulate the conditions that we encounter while hiking. Open to all AMC members, but priority for registration given to current and prospective NY-NoJ AMC backpack or day hike Leaders. $20 fee, includes course materials and ECSI certification on successful completion. No public Transportation Code, L will try to arrange carpools. Register via Chapter website www.amc-ny.org/facilities-services/wfirstaid/schedule/. LR Barry Skura 914-779-0936 WFA Instructor Jonathan Silver 973-259-1803 NCA 9 p.m. (Use button above to pre-register. Deposits must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 21-22. Backcountry Cookin' in the Catskills Backpack.

We'll follow the LP up to Kaatterskill High Peak, then down to the scenic Escarpment trail. Low mileage on first day so we have plenty of time to show off our culinary skills in camp. L will demonstrate backcountry baking. NO freeze dried or other quick-cook meals allowed. Approx. 19 mi. total with great views! Limited to 8 Backpackers in good physical condition with all necessary equipment. Beginners welcome. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Mike Denaro C 631-576-5869 . AL Frank Zarb H:718-908-5124 C 718-739-5124 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 21-22. Escarpment Trail Backpack.

Backpack the entire scenic Escarpment Trail, traversing the high eastern edge of the Catskill Plateau. Interesting and varied terrain with many viewpoints along the way. Approx 26 total miles. Limited to 7 experienced backpackers in good physical condition. Fri. night car shuttle. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Fred Mader H:973-442-2482 AL Joe DeMott C 516-633-4851 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 28-29. AT Across Harriman Backpack.

We'll start at the Bear Mtn Inn and finish 18 miles later at Arden/Rte. 17. Along the way there will be lots of ups and downs, great scenery and views, a few iron mines and even the Lemon Squeezer. Moderate pace. Limited to 8 participants. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Dennis Hillerud, C 973-204-2161 . AL Don Frazier. (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 28-29. Beginner's Challenge Backpack.

For “advanced beginners” who have gone backpacking once or twice and are ready to try a trip with some tougher terrain; or strong day-hikers (level 3D or 4C) who want to explore backpacking. Avg. 7 miles and 1-2 steep climbs per day on the AT in MA/CT with Mtn Laurel in bloom! A moderate hike at a pace suitable for beginners, but all are welcome. You must be an experienced day hiker with basic backpacking equipment. Limited to 8 participants. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Debbie Melita C 646-645-5667 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

July Schedule

Thu.-Mon., Jul. 3-7. Beautiful Bonds Backpack (White Mts., NH).

Travel, set up car shuttle and camp on Thu., then spend 3 ½ days of backpacking approx. 34 miles. Includes steep climbs over the Bonds with their unsurpassed views, the Hancocks (with day packs), scenic Zealand Falls, wilderness camp sites. Some strenuous climbs; moderate mileage and pace. Beginners who regularly hike steep terrain will be considered. Not suitable for fast pacers who won't wait. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Christine Benton 718-768-7937 NCA 9 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Thu.-Sun., Jul. 3-6. Backpack/Paddle Cranberry Lake & 5 Ponds Wilderness.

Cranberry Lake is the 3rd largest in the Adirondacks and the only large lake to be nearly surrounded by a Forest Preserve. Its irregular shoreline is fascinating to explore. Some trails are via boat-only access. Paddle approx. 12 mi. per day and backpack approx. 9 mi. per day. For experienced paddlers & hikers in good physical shape. Boat rentals available. Must arrive Wed. night. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee for backpack & $5 fee for CKC. LR Russ Faller . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Fri.-Sun., Jul. 4-6. Assateague Island Base Camp (MD).

Set up a base camp on a scenic island along the MD shore, known for its wild ponies and beautiful beach. Hike along the shore and kayak or canoe in nearby bay. Car pool down Thu. night. Limited to AMC members who have been on at least one club hike, backpack or paddling trip in last six months. Campsite fee of approx. $20 per person, plus $5 nonrefundable registration fee. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter web site. To complete registration send $25 check to Barry Skura, 9 Wellyn Road, Bronxville, NY 10708. LR Barry Skura 914-779-0936 AL Kathy Skura . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Fri.-Sun., Jul. 11-13. AT in CT Backpack.

A 3-day, 30-mile backpack on the AT in CT from Rt 112 to Bulls Bridge, including St Johns Ledges. Rolling terrain, ranging from a scenic riverside walk along the picturesque Housatonic River to a few moderately strenuous but not difficult climbs. Peaceful woods and streams and many nice views into the surrounding countryside. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Fred Mader AL Joe DeMott C 516-633-4851 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., Jul. 12-14. Mount Marcy Backpack.

A 3-day hike in the Adirondacks High Peaks Region; including NY's tallest peak. Moderate mileage each day with plenty of time to explore and enjoy the scenery. Some steep climbs with excellent views. Limited to 8 experienced backpackers in good physical condition with proper gear. Fri. night lodging recommended, contact L . Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Valerie McClean C 917-599-6658 NCA 9 p.m. . AL Frank Zarb H:718-908-5124 C 718-739-5124 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jul. 19-20. Doubletop Bushwhack/Backpack.

Start with a short hike up to a lean-to and set up base camp. Then bushwhack to the top of Doubletop Mt., honing your map and compass skills. Beginners welcome. Limited to 8 backpackers in good physical condition will all necessary equipment. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Mike Denaro C 631-576-5869 . AL Debbie Melita 646-645-5667 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jul. 19-20. Northeast Catskills Backpack for Over 50s.

Moderate 2 ½ hr backpack to beautiful base camp, then optional hikes along the LP, Escarpment trail for wonderful vistas and wildlife observation. One person from your party should be over 50 years young. Limited to 8 backpackers. Suitable for beginners in good physical condition with proper gear. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Jonathan Frankfort C 201-314-8015 H:201-795-2291 NCA 9 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Jul. 26-27. Alder Lake/Huckleberry Loop Backpack.

Backpack about 17 beautiful miles in Catskills area of Alder Lake and Balsam Lake Mtn. Moderate terrain and pace. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Barry Skura 914-779-0936 AL Doug Weekes 609-426-4457 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

August Schedule

Sat.-Sun., Aug. 2-3. Pawling to Kent on the AT.

A 15-mile backpack trip from NY to CT on the Appalachian Trail. Rolling hills and riverside camping to give those so inclined a chance to cool off in a friendly river. Suitable for fit beginners who have done 10+ mile day hikes. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Tom McArdle 914-762-8162 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Fri.-Sun., Aug. 8-10. Loyalsock Trail Backpack (PA).

A 17 mile looped hike along Loyalsock/World's End State Park trails. Moderate pace with plenty of stops to enjoy the streams, waterfalls and vistas along the way. Late Fri. afternoon meet/start. Limited to 8. Strong beginners considered. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Dennis Hillerud, C 973-204-2161 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Aug. 9-10. Adirondack Naturalist Base Camp.

Explore the Great Forest of the Adirondacks while car-camping at a state campground on a quiet pond. Day hike to pockets of never-logged forest treasures. Only one strenuous climb, the rest is easy to moderate terrain. Activities can include photography, birding, plant ID, beach swimming, etc. Arrive Fri. night for early Sat. start. Dedicated (and self-sufficient) nature lovers welcome. Due to the fragile environments we'll visit, trip is limited to 8 participants. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee, plus campsite fee of about $17 per night. BYO food. LR Ron Gonzalez 718-963-2678 NCA 10 p.m. . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Fri.-Sun., Aug. 15-17. Adirondack Mtn Reserve.

Set up base camp near Elk Pass. Day hike to nearby summits. Hike out last day through Ausable River gorge. Breathtaking views of Lower Ausable Lake, cliff-lined valleys, beautiful waterfalls, streams, and climbs through virgin hemlock/spruce forests. Approx. 8 mi/day at a moderate pace. Really fit beginners considered. Meet at trailhead early on Fri. a.m. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter web site www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Fred Mader H.973-442-2482 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Aug. 16-17. Young Members Harriman Rocky Ridge Backpack.

Learn backpacking basics on a scenic, moderate 14 mile backpack. Suitable for hikers with some experience in good shape and with necessary equipment; gear sharing may be possible check with L Dick Leonard 347-350-4463 AL Valerie McLean . $5 registration fee. Register via Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Sun., Aug. 23-24. AT in CT Backpack.

Great Falls to Bear Mt., CT. Nice views with some ups and downs at a moderate pace over approx. 20 miles. Limited to 8 Backpackers in good physical condition with proper gear. Strong Beginners welcome. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Frank Zarb H:718-908-5124, C 718-908-5124 . AL Don Frazier C 917-362-2181. (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Tue., Aug. 23-26. Grafton Loop Backpack (ME).

Strenuous, 4-day backpack on a 38.6 mile loop over rugged terrain including Old Speck and rock scrambles on the Baldpates. For more information about the route, see www.matc.org/glt1.htm. Limited to 6 experienced, very fit backpackers. Although not an official ultralight trip, small packs and light loads are encouraged due to the scrambling and rocky trails. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. L Margaret Gaertner, C 917-476-8156 AL Barry Skura 914-779-0936 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., Aug. 30-Sep. 1. Five Ponds Wilderness Backpack.

Backpack 3 days in a remote area of the northwest Adirondack Park. Visit High Falls and camp near tranquil lakes, where loons may make an entertaining appearance. Approx. 22-27 mi. over mostly flat terrain. Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Fred Mader H:973-442-2482 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

Sat.-Mon., Aug. 30-Sep. 1. Mt Marcy Backpack.

A 3-day hike in the Adirondacks High Peaks Region; including NY's tallest peak. Moderate mileage each day with plenty of time to explore and enjoy the views. Some steep climbs with excellent views. Limited to 8 experienced backpackers in good physical condition with proper gear. Fri. night lodging recommended, contact L . Register via Backpacking page of Chapter website www.amc-ny.org. $5 non-refundable registration fee. LR Valerie McClean C 917-599-6658 NCA 9 p.m. AL Mike Denaro C 631-576-5869 . (Use button above to register. Deposits, if any, must be mailed separately.)

September Schedule

TBA

Please check the printed schedule until this web page is updated.

Rating System: Backpack Trips

Standard Trips

We do not have a rating system for our backpacking trips. Please read the trip descriptions carefully to decide if a trip is suitable for your abilities.

For more information please review these links:

•     Minimum Impact Guidelines]
•     [Basic Gear List]
•     [Winter Gear Additions]
•     [Backpack Trips]