Storm King Outdoor Art and Kayaking Adventure
July 18
A full day of adventure and culture awaits us in the pristine Hudson Valley, just one hour north of NYC. We begin with a beautiful one-hour hike to the 1,300 foot summit of Storm King Mountain. Since the trail starts at elevation, there won't be a great deal of climbing, in case you were wondering. We'll stop along the wooded trails to enjoy magnificent sweeping views up and down the Hudson River and across the river to the Hudson Highlands.
After a short drive into the neighboring town of Cornwall-on-the-Hudson and receiving land instruction from our guides, we'll put on PFDs and head out on a 2-hour open water kayak tour. With guides paddling alongside to offer support and to share the history of the area, we'll cross the Hudson and traverse the bridges, shores and ports of Bannerman Island best known for its lavishly appointed armory dating back to 1901. The unfortunate ruins of the simulated Scottish castle play tricks upon its onlookers for they are suggestive of an ancient age long before the civil war period that brought Mr. Bannerman the wealth to construct it.
Ready to give our bodies a rest, we will head to Storm King Art Center to exercise our minds. July 18th is Sonata Sunday, so in preparation for a stroll through the world renown sculpture park, which sports some of the 20th century's best pieces, we will relax while listening to the bass and harpsichord playing of Andrew Appel and the Feeney Duo. The guided tour of the art center is a great close to a full day of adventure in the Hudson Valley, a place of deep history, culture and abundant outdoor opportunities.
You may choose not to participate in all the activities, however, you will need to supply your own transportation and check with us for meet up times as well as other sites to see in the area, e.g. West Point Military Academy.
When: July 18 Meet in Little Neck at 8:30am and return back by 6pm.
Where: Hudson Valley
What: Hiking, Open Water Kayaking, Art Museum
Cost: $149 includes all technical equipment, certified hiking and kayaking guides, instruction, admission to the Art Center with a guided tour and live music and round-trip transportation. Drive to meet us $139. Bring a friend or family member and their price is $139.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Please be aware that the kayaking tour takes place in open water that is subject to currents and wake from passing boats. Although it is unlikely you will flip, good swimming ability is recommended.
Rock Climbing Adventure in the Gunks
coming again soon
We've put together a great day of adventure at Bonticou Crag in the ruggedly beautiful Shawangunk Mountains. This is one of our favorite locations to play since it not only offers a variety of activities within the same area, but the 360 degree views from the top of the talus field are just spectacular making you feel far far away from it all. All levels are welcome from those who have never donned a harness before to seasoned climbers. Your certified rock climbing guides will provide all the instruction and technical equipment to make your day of hiking, climbing, rappelling and scrambling fun and safe. You'll even have an opportunity to spelunk through the dark, creepy labyrinth of Bonticou Cave...we'll provide the headlamps. Come join other like-minded individuals for a spectacular day full of exciting activities, fresh mountain air and good company.
When: Saturday, June 5 9am-5pm
Where: Bonticou Crag in the Gunks near New Paltz, NY (about 2-hours from Long Island)
Activities: Rock climbing, scrambling, hiking, rappelling, spelunking and turkey vulture watching
Cost: $149 per person includes certified guides, all technical equipment and park fees. Limited transportation available.
Space is limited, so please register early and submit payment online to secure a spot.
Aerial Forest Adventure
coming Again Soon
Move through the forest like Tarzan, Jane, Boy and Cheeta in North America's largest aerial adventure park. Designed by Swiss mountaineers, the park consists of eight courses with 115 different elements. The objective is to move from one tree platform to the next using the many bridges, platforms, tunnels, trapezes and ziplines, some that are 60' high. Each course offers a different level of difficulty making it fun and safe for all.
Once our feet are back on the ground, we'll exchange stories of our day up in the trees while enjoying a short hike out to a local treasure, Bash Bish Falls. Remember to dress in layers and bring a bagged lunch and beverages.
When: Monday, May 31th. We'll meet at 11:30am in the lodge at Catamount Mountain
Where: Berkshire Mountains, NY
Cost: $49 ($39 for kids 8-11) includes park fees, instruction, safety equipment and guided hike
Once our feet are back on the ground, we'll exchange stories of our day up in the trees while enjoying a short hike out to a local treasure, Bash Bish Falls. Remember to dress in layers and bring a bagged lunch and beverages.
When: Monday, May 31th. We'll meet at 11:30am in the lodge at Catamount Mountain
Where: Berkshire Mountains, NY
Cost: $49 ($39 for kids 8-11) includes park fees, instruction, safety equipment and guided hike
Bear Mountain Hike & Skate
back next season
When: Sunday, February 28 We'll meet at 9:45am in the skating rink parking lot.
Where: Bear Mountain State Park Click here for directions.
Activities: 3-hour hike, 1.5 hour skating session, visit to the zoo and ride on the carousel.
Cost: $39 ($34 for additional immediate family members) includes guided hike, admission to rink and zoo, and skate rental. Bring your own lunch. $8 will be refunded if you choose not to skate.
Where: Bear Mountain State Park Click here for directions.
Activities: 3-hour hike, 1.5 hour skating session, visit to the zoo and ride on the carousel.
Cost: $39 ($34 for additional immediate family members) includes guided hike, admission to rink and zoo, and skate rental. Bring your own lunch. $8 will be refunded if you choose not to skate.
This is an intermediate level hike with 1,200' of elevation gain to Perkins Tower. All those attending should be in good physical shape.
Limited transportation is available.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Ice Climbing in the Catskills
back next season
for kids, adults and families
Ice climbing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in the wintertime and just about anyone can do it. Your certified guides will provide the instruction and technical gear to make the day fun and safe. Like rock climbing, you will always be on a safety belay to prevent falls and to allow you to just hang out if you need a break. All levels are welcome as a variety of routes will be available depending on climbing ability. Conditions are excellent and the views of the frozen waterfalls and snow covered mountains are just breathtaking. If you've been wondering what ice climbing is all about or if you are a seasoned climber, this full day adventure is one that you will not soon forget.
When: Saturday, March 6 9am - 4pm
Where: Catskill Mountains. The exact location will be dependent on conditions at the time of the trip.
Activities: Ice climbing, hiking, rappelling, snow ball throwing, enjoying breathtaking scenery and fresh mountain air.
Cost: $159 includes certified ice climbing guides, instruction and all technical equipment (helmet, harness, mountaineering boots, crampons, and climbing tools). If you thoroughly enjoy your day, it is recommended that you express your appreciation to the guides by contributing $20 to the gratuity pool.
Limited transportation is available.
Space is limited, so please register early and submit payment online to secure a spot.
Oktoberfest in the Catskills
coming again soon
coming again soon
Come join other like-minded outdoor enthusiasts for a fun day in the beautiful Catskill Mountains, only 2.5 hours from LI. Our day starts with a challenging 3.5 mile hike to New York State's highest fire tower. The 360 degree views from the top of the tower are unsurpassed and with the foliage changing, the scenery should be unforgettable. After a well deserved lunch on the 4,000' summit, we'll hike another 2-miles (downhill) and enter Hunter Mountain's Oktoberfest via the quad chairlift. The German American Festival features multiple live bands, a farmer's market, free crafts for kids, vendors, beer and, of course, accordions.
Please be advised that the first 3.5-miles of the hike is over rough terrain with 2,000' of elevation gain. Only those in good physical condition should attempt it. If you would like to come but feel that this hike might be too challenging, you can ride the chair lift up and meet us at the fire tower by way of a gentler, but still demanding, 2-mile trail.
Unlike our trip on October 3rd (for singles only), this trip is open to kids (with or without their parents), adults and families.
When: Sunday Oktober 11 We'll meet at 7am in the Little Neck Plaza Shopping Center and return by 8pm
Where: Hunter Mountain
Cost: $89 ($84 for additional family members) includes guided hike, chairlift ride down the mountain, entry to Oktoberfest and round trip transportation from Little Neck.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Rocky Point Family Mountain Bike Ride
coming again soon
coming again soon
Come join us at one of Long Island's finest mountain bike trails. Snaked within Rocky Point's dense pine forest and majestic fern fields are miles of twisty single track and an abundance of roller coaster-like mogul sections guaranteed to excite all levels of riders.
Kids, adults and families are welcome. All levels welcome, however, some previous mountain biking experience is recommended for this ride.
Limited transportation available. Contact us.
Kids, adults and families are welcome. All levels welcome, however, some previous mountain biking experience is recommended for this ride.
Limited transportation available. Contact us.
When: Monday, October 12th 9:30am - 12pm
Where: Rocky Point State Park. Click here for directions.
Activities: Guided mountain biking with instruction and mechanical support
Cost: $45 per person, $19 for additional immediate family members
Space is limited and DEC access permits (which we will obtain for you) are required, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Where: Rocky Point State Park. Click here for directions.
Activities: Guided mountain biking with instruction and mechanical support
Cost: $45 per person, $19 for additional immediate family members
Space is limited and DEC access permits (which we will obtain for you) are required, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Escape to Lost City
coming again soon
Known for its many pinnacles, corridors, overlooks and hidden mazes, Lost City, on the beautiful Mohonk Preserve, offers a wide array of adventure opportunities. In addition to climbing an assortment of routes appropriate for all levels (5.4-5.10), you'll have a chance to learn how to rappel (lower yourself down while still on a safety belay), traverse (pull yourself across a 100' rope, 80' off the ground), spelunk (creeping through a cave), swim in Coxing Creek and explore this unique spot not far from New Paltz, NY. No previous climbing experience is necessary as your certified guides will provide instruction and all the technical climbing gear to make your day fun and safe.
When: Saturday October 17 We'll meet at 6:30am in the Little Neck Plaza Shopping Center and return by 9pm
Where: Meet at Lost CIty (about 2.5 hours from Long Island) at 9am
Activities: Rock climbing, hiking, rappelling, Scrambling, Tyrolean traverse, caving and swimming
Cost: $189 per person, $184 for each additional immediate family member, includes certified guides, all technical equipment and round trip transportation from Little Neck. If you are pleased with your experience, we recommend thanking your rock guides by contributing $20 to the gratuity pool.
Kids (with or without their parents), singles, couples and families welcome. All participants should be in good health. Limited transportation available.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Where: Meet at Lost CIty (about 2.5 hours from Long Island) at 9am
Activities: Rock climbing, hiking, rappelling, Scrambling, Tyrolean traverse, caving and swimming
Cost: $189 per person, $184 for each additional immediate family member, includes certified guides, all technical equipment and round trip transportation from Little Neck. If you are pleased with your experience, we recommend thanking your rock guides by contributing $20 to the gratuity pool.
Kids (with or without their parents), singles, couples and families welcome. All participants should be in good health. Limited transportation available.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Valentine's Adventure
coming again soon
for kids, adults and families
for kids, adults and families
There's no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than to share it with someone you love. Your day starts with a scenic, 3-hour hike at Breakneck Ridge, the quintessential trek through the Hudson Highlands. Although you'll gain 1,000 feet over some very rugged terrain in the first mile often requiring you to scramble on hands and feet, the spectacular sweeping views of the Hudson and the surrounding mountain ranges will be ample reward for all your effort. After the completion of the hike through dense forest and on more level ground, we'll drive a short distance to visit the Dia Museum in Beacon, NY and view its renowned collection of art from the 1960s to present. Once full of fresh air and culture, it will be time to fill your bellies with some good food and explore the many antique shops in the quaint village of Cold Spring.
When: Saturday, February 13 9am-
Where: Meet at the trailhead on Route 9D just north of Cold Spring, NY
Activities: Hike*, art, food and antiquing
Cost: $34 ($25 for all sweethearts accompanying you) includes guided hike and logistics. Admission to the Dia Museum ($7 adults/$5 students) and dinner are not included.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
*This is an intermediate level hike with aerobically challenging sections over rugged terrain in the first mile. All those attending should be healthy and in good physical condition. Please check with us if you are uncertain of your ability to participate. At the discrection of ABD, the route may be modified or the hike rescheduled depending on weather and/or trail conditions.
When: Saturday, February 13 9am-
Where: Meet at the trailhead on Route 9D just north of Cold Spring, NY
Activities: Hike*, art, food and antiquing
Cost: $34 ($25 for all sweethearts accompanying you) includes guided hike and logistics. Admission to the Dia Museum ($7 adults/$5 students) and dinner are not included.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
*This is an intermediate level hike with aerobically challenging sections over rugged terrain in the first mile. All those attending should be healthy and in good physical condition. Please check with us if you are uncertain of your ability to participate. At the discrection of ABD, the route may be modified or the hike rescheduled depending on weather and/or trail conditions.
Palisades Hike & Ice Sculpting Festival
back next season
for kids, adults and families
The Knickerbocker Ice Festival celebrates the history of the ice industry at Rockland Lake State Park. During the 1800s, the Knickerbocker Ice Company harvested ice throughout the Hudson Valley. The ice from Rockland Lake was considered the purest, attracting business from as close as New York City and as far away as Asia.
The Knickerbocker Ice Festival celebrates the history of the ice industry at Rockland Lake State Park. During the 1800s, the Knickerbocker Ice Company harvested ice throughout the Hudson Valley. The ice from Rockland Lake was considered the purest, attracting business from as close as New York City and as far away as Asia.
Our day starts with an intermediate level, 2.5-3 hour hike with sweeping views of the Hudson River. The trail will take us to some dramatic spots including Giant Stairs and Peanut Leap Falls. Afterwards, we'll head over to the Ice Festival and enjoy music, dancing, crafts, art exhibits, food, history programs, bonfires, a professional ice carving competition and more.
When: Sunday, January 24 We'll meet at 8:30am near Alpine, NJ. The exact location will depend on trail conditions.
Where: Palisades State Park & Rockland Lake State Park just an hour from Long Island.
Activities: A fun, scenic hike and visit to the Knickerbocker Ice Festival.
Cost: $34 ($29 for additional immediate family members) includes guided hike and all logistics. The $5 parking fee at the Ice Festival is additional.
When: Sunday, January 24 We'll meet at 8:30am near Alpine, NJ. The exact location will depend on trail conditions.
Where: Palisades State Park & Rockland Lake State Park just an hour from Long Island.
Activities: A fun, scenic hike and visit to the Knickerbocker Ice Festival.
Cost: $34 ($29 for additional immediate family members) includes guided hike and all logistics. The $5 parking fee at the Ice Festival is additional.
Indian Head Mountain Hike & Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
coming again soon
Although we won't be hiking the entire 25-mile length of the famed Devil's Path (we'll save that for another day), we'll trek along one of our favorite 7-mile sections of this rugged Catskill Mountain trail full of fun crevasses, scenic steam crossings, challenging scrambling sections and gorgeous vistas. After cresting the 3,573' Indian Head Mountain summit, we'll stop on a ledge to take in the sweeping views and to enjoy a well deserved snack.
Once back at the van, we'll drive a short distance to what is considered to be one of the top 10 Regional Food Festivals in the USA, the 21st Annual Hudson Valley Garlic Festival. This annual fall festival in Saugerties, NY celebrates the harvest season with its generous life-sustaining gifts and, particularly, the natural health and food-enhancing benefits of garlic. Their commitment is to reawaken an awareness and deep appreciation of the fruits of the harvest through early harvest rituals, music, dance, delicious food, camaraderie and fun. The Hudson Valley Garlic Festival is known for the taste and smell of garlic, but an aspect that always receives high praise as well is the enjoyable and varied sounds that accompany the festival. Here is this year's entertainment schedule.
When: Saturday September 26 We'll meet at 6am in the Little Neck Plaza Shopping Center and return by 10pm (no doubt smelling like garlic)
Where: Platte Clove and Saugerties, NY
Activities: Hiking, scrambling, music, dancing, cooking demonstrations and lots of garlic
Cost: $99 per person includes guided hike, entrance to Garlic Festival and round trip transportation from Little Neck.
Please be advised that Indian Head is a challenging hike over rough terrain with significant elevation change and rock scrambling sections that will likely take 4-5 hours to complete. Those only in good physical condition should attend. Please check with us if you are uncertain.
Space is limited, so please register early and make payment online to secure a spot.
Just an hour north of Long Island lies a 5,000-acre playground filled with all sorts of activities for folks who love to play in the outdoors. Join us for a classic 5-mile hike to Perkins Tower at the 1,284' summit of Bear Mountain. After a short stroll along Hessain Lake, the trail turns into a dense forest and ascends sharply. Although there are a few scrambling sections, none will leave you feeling too exposed. After admiring the spectacular views at the top and having a well deserved snack, we'll loop back down, change out of our boots and enjoy an ice skating session on the park's rustic outdoor rink. Before heading home, we'll visit the trailside zoo, grab a cup of hot chocolate in the carousel pavillion and take a ride on the merry-go-round.