OutdoorFest
The Rise NYC Workout
The Rise NYC Workout
OutdoorFest
OutdoorFest Community Basecamp

Basecamp

OutdoorFest Community Basecamp
Staten Island
OutdoorFest
OutdoorFest Campout | Night Trail Race | Live ...

Get outside.

OutdoorFest Campout | Night Trail Race | Live Music | Yoga

Outdoor Academy: Backcountry Cooking

Part of a three-day series, the Destination Backcountry Academy at OutdoorFest is a great way to learn from local guides. This instructional course will cover the nutritional and logistical aspects of menu planning in the backcountry. you’ll learn what your body needs while on adventure, including replenishing calories and fulfilling nutritional needs. You’ll learn how weight, storage, and cooking method will impact your menu planning and packing, the pros and cons of pre-packaged meals, and the type of gear you will need for your backcountry kitchen. We’ll also share tips for menu planning on a budget, dietary restrictions, and allergies, as well as our favorite places to shop for backcountry supplies.

WHEN: Friday, June 9th, 2017 at 6:30pm

WHERE: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Destination Backcountry:We love sharing with you the most wild and beautiful places in NY! Day & Overnight Adventures Hiking, Backpacking, Holistic Adventures, Canoeing, Survival School and more. Transportation to/from NYC--your choice of B'klyn or Manhattan!--gourmet meals and experienced, knowledgeable, friendly guides, pros at creating a relaxed, welcoming & supportive experience for novice to experienced adventurers.

 

For sports enthusiasts around the world, Paragon Sports is considered the benchmark of quality for all types of sports equipment and clothing. Privately owned since 1908, we have taken pride in showcasing products from the brands you know and love as well as unique and exceptional brands that you may not be familiar with yet. 

You will find everything you need (and more) in a unique "Specialty Shop" environment within our huge single store located at 18th Street and Broadway in New York City. 

At Paragon Sports, we are committed to bringing you the most innovative and technologically advanced products in the sports and outdoor field. It is our mission to provide a unique and fulfilling shopping experience to every customer, every time, by setting the standard in customer service and quality product. 

 

 

With brews by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

 
 

Kayak Around Governors Island (Friday Trip)

Join Red Hook Boaters for another year of guided kayaking adventures for a cause! Their expert guides will lead you on a 2 hour tour leaving from Valentino Pier in Red Hook heading toward Governors Island - the largest car-free green space in New York City. Upon return to the beach, there's wine, cheese and one of the best sunsets out there as it sets directly behind the Statue of Liberty.

Please note: Kayak tours are subject to weather conditions. In the case of extreme weather we'll reschedule but if possible we will adjust course slightly to get you out on the water (exploring the Brooklyn coastline perhaps). There are no refunds. 

 

The park faces directly West and has a stunning view of the Statue of Liberty.

Friday 6/9 5:30PM - 8:30PM | Rain Date: Wednesday 6/14 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Location: Louis Valentino Pier, Red Hook, NY Google Map

The Red Hook Boaters

The Red Hook Boaters are an all volunteer non-profit that provides free kayaking in New York Harbor on Weekends for the general public. We are dedicated to expanding the use of New York's waterways for recreation and doing environmental awareness programs in the Harbor.

www.redhookboaters.org

We use these private trips as a fundraising vehicle to support our free programming which takes place in low income neighborhoods.

Ladies Night: Women's Bike Meet-Up at Paragon Basecamp

Paragon is turning into the OutdoorFest Basecamp for the week and we couldn't be more excited to host a women's bike meet-up.

This is an opportunity for females who are looking to connect with other women and organizations to get out on bikes in and around NYC, to hear about all the cool things these organizations do. Stop by for some beer, see the new Speciailized bikes for women, and learn about all things biking, happening right in your backyard. Plus, find a new friend to ride with for our Women Trails Day on June 10th.

WHEN: Thursday, June 8th, 2017

TIME: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

WHERE: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

For sports enthusiasts around the world, Paragon Sports is considered the benchmark of quality for all types of sports equipment and clothing. Privately owned since 1908, we have taken pride in showcasing products from the brands you know and love as well as unique and exceptional brands that you may not be familiar with yet. 

You will find everything you need (and more) in a unique "Specialty Shop" environment within our huge single store located at 18th Street and Broadway in New York City. 

At Paragon Sports, we are committed to bringing you the most innovative and technologically advanced products in the sports and outdoor field. It is our mission to provide a unique and fulfilling shopping experience to every customer, every time, by setting the standard in customer service and quality product. 
 

The Man Who Mapped the Trees: Central Park with Ken Chaya

Header photo by Bob Eckstein

Discover urban nature with The Man Who Mapped the Trees, Ken Chaya, on this 2-hour walk in Central Park. We will be observing and identifying birds, wildflowers, trees, insects, and many other flora and fauna that can be found in the woodland area of the Ramble, the Lake and Strawberry Fields.

Meet at the North East corner of West 72nd Street and Central Park West (across from the Dakota) at 6:15pm. The walk begins promptly at 6:30. 72nd Street Subway station for C and B train is right across the street.

Walk is rain or shine (but not if it is a downpour or severe storm). Wear comfortable walking clothes. We will leave the park at 8:30 after sunset.

Bring binoculars if you have them.

WHEN: Thursday, June 8th, 2017

TIME: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

WHERE: Northeast corner of West 72nd Street and Central Park West (across from the Dakota)

Evening Stand Up Paddleboard

60 minutes of fun SUP to end your day! 

MKC is the premiere location for Stand UP Paddle Boarding in NYC. In this session MKC instructors will introduce you to the world of SUP. There will be a 10 minute show and tell of the different types of boards, equipment and applications for SUP’s. This will be followed by a 10-15 minutes primer on basic techniques and board control for 30 minutes. We will conclude with Q&A.


MKC is located on Pier 84 on the Hudson River (at 44th Street). Check out the Google Map here  

Manhattan Kayak Company is the premier paddle sport company for NY kayaking and stand up paddle boarding (SUP) tours and instruction in New York City.

Fishing + Happy Hour on the East River

Tired of the old noisy after work happy hour? Head down to the Ecology Center to finish off the week with views of the East River as the sun sets and the light turns "magic."

Join us for summer fishing and hanging out on the East River with the Ecology Center. Bait and tackle will be provided (or bring your own) as well as basic fishing instruction. Tickets get you drinks, snacks, and an exclusive look into the Ecology Center's Environmental Learning Center.

Lower East Side Ecology Center
East River at Grand Street
Manhattan, New York 10002

Enter East River Park at Delancey and the FDR Drive
**Please use this Google Map link to find the location on the East River Promenade!**

The LES Ecology Center

The Lower East Side Ecology Center works toward a more sustainable New York City by providing community-based recycling and composting programs, developing local stewardship of green space, and increasing community awareness, involvement and youth development through environmental education programs.

Sunset Hike in Inwood Park

As part of the 2017 Hiking Series by Lowa Boots, join Natural Areas Conservancy to explore Manhattan's last remnant forest. Make sure to tag your photo #outdoorfest17, @naturalareasnyc and #lowaboots to be entered to win a pair of your own Lowa Innox Evo Lo trail shoes.

The Natural Areas Conservancy ecologists will begin the walk at the southern end of Inwood Hill Park and ascend into the forest, which contains many Revolutionary War-era trees. While most of the forest contains red oak and tulip trees, other sections of the park’s 196 acres are lush woods that include a magnificent understory of witch-hazel, spice bush, and dogwood. Some of the tallest trees in Manhattan are found in the Clove, a small, forested valley that extends along the eastern base of the ridge. As part of exploring the ecological significance of this incredible forest, our ecologists will share information from our two-year research project on the diverse trees within the park, their relevance to New York City’s nature, and the future condition of the park. Along the path, we will overlook the Hudson River and the setting sun behind the Palisades.

Learn more about our work after the tour by joining us for a drink at La Marina!

Meet outside the Payson Center (corner of Dyckman Street and Payson Avenue), which is two blocks from the uptown A train stop at Dyckman. The approximately 3-4 mile walk includes a gentle though dramatic rise and descent in elevation. Please dress appropriately (long pants and sturdy walking shoes) and bring water, if needed.

WHEN: Thursday, June 8th, 2017

TIME: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

WHERE:  Meet at Payson Center (corner of Dyckman Street and Payson Avenue) New York, NY.

Header photo by VivPVentures

This event was generously supported by Con Edison.

The Natural Areas Conservancy is a champion of NYC’s 20,000 acres of forests and wetlands for the benefit and enjoyment of all. Their team of scientists and experts promote nature’s diversity and resilience across the five boroughs, working in close partnership with the City of New York. 

 

For 90+ years, LOWA BOOTS have been acclaimed as the finest outdoor boots in the world by climbers, mountaineers, hikers, the media and certified quality testers. Our attention to every detail in design and European manufacturing has earned our reputation for building the world's most comfortable and durable boots since 1923. 

The Rise NYC Workout

You could be doing two things on a Wednesday night: (1) sitting at home alone listening to angsty music from the early 2000s, or (2) enjoying a FREE kick-butt workout with The Rise NYC! Okay..maybe those aren't your only options, but I guarantee the workout beats whatever else you had planned!

You'll be served a delicious meal consisting of Burpees, sprints, pushups, and a side of high fives! You'll make new friends. You and your new friends will push yourselves to your limits, and do it with a smile. After roughly 45 minutes with us, you'll want to do it all again!

There are only three rules:
(1) Anyone can do this.
(2) Everyone is welcome.
(3) We will have fun.

When: June 7th, 7:00-8:00PM

Where: Bag drop at Paragon Sports. We'll jog to the north side of Union Square at 7 and be back at Paragon by 8. The workout will last roughly 45 minutes.

The Rise NYC

The Rise NYC is a FREE early morning fitness community that meets five days a week across New York City. We love high fives, friendship, and waking up way too early to enjoy NYC at the best time of day. Whether it's raining, snowing, sleeting, or apocalypse-ing, we'll be outside doing Burpees and taking names.

We're all over NYC and we're also all over the Internet! Check us out:

MeetUp: https://www.meetup.com/The-Rise-NYC/
Facebook Page: fb.com/therisenyc
Facebook Group: fb.com/groups/therisenyc
Instagram: @therisenyc
Website: http://www.therisenyc.com

Speed Dating

You love the outdoors, I love the outdoors, we all love the outdoors, now lets mingle and start exploring together. LuvByrd, a dating app for outdoor enthusiasts, is hosting a speed dating event, and you should join us! Meet like minded singles, have a couple drinks on us, and have a great night.

What to expect:
This event is for anyone, including, all ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions.
Depending on the amount of daters who attend, dates will last between 2-5 minuets. 
You might not have time to date everyone at the event, but there will be some time after to socialize. 
This event welcomes all ages and is LGBT friendly. Even if you don't meet "the one", we hope you'll have at least met a new adventure partner.

Where: Paragon Sports 

867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

I Am Adaptive Climbing Competition

Brooklyn Boulders Foundation X OutdoorFest X Adaptive Climbing Group are hosting a climbing competition with an adaptive twist: try climbing blindfolded, strong climbing with only the arms, using only one leg, or one arm. Baller prizes from REI, Arcteryx, Adidas, Biolite and Brooklyn Boulders.

Climbing Blind: A paired competition, the climber is blindfolded (unless already blind). Their partner guides their climbing with Beta. The Climber must stay on route and complete route to count towards competition. Winners determined by best time/ farthest completion. Rules: Must have point of contact on wall during the climb. Hands off means climb is done.

Look Ma! Just Hands: Climbing routes by campusing (hands only) up routes. Rules: Cannot “jump” on holds. The motion of a jumping motion in swing with legs to reach next hold. Must have point of contact during entires ascent.

Hop to It: Climbers to choose one leg to climb with for entire route. Rules: Cannot switch feet during route.

With One Hand Behind My Back: One-armed bouldering routes. The goal is to achieve best time, or go the farthest on dedicated routes.

This is an adaptive-style climbing competition for both able-boiled and disabled climbers. Male and Female prizes for each category. 

BKB Members $20, Non BKB Members $25

Early bird May 15 to May 31 $5 off 

June 7th, 2017 | Brooklyn Boulders Gowanus | 575 Degraw 

Nature Namaste: Hike & Yoga Escape

As part of the 2017 Hiking Series by Lowa Boots, join Catskill Mountain Wild for a day of hiking and yoga in the Catskills. Make sure to tag your photo #outdoorfest17 and #lowaboots to be entered to win a pair of your own Lowa Innox Evo Lo trail shoes.

Escape from today's crazy world. See New York State's highest two-tiered waterfall, Kaaterskill Falls. Walk through forests. Learn local history and folklore. Overlook the Hudson Valley

Connect mind, body and nature for only $35 (does not include transportation).

Bring snacks, lunch and water for the day. A yoga mat isn’t necessary, but you can bring a mat or towel if you’d like. Otherwise, let your body become one with the dirt and grass during our yoga session. Don’t forget bug spray, sun block, cameras and medications. Swimming is available at North Lake if time permits. 

We’ll be hiking up to 8 miles. Wear comfortable clothing (avoid jeans and heavy cotton) and a good pair of hiking boots or shoes. The terrain is rugged, yet moderate in elevation gain -- sneakers will suffice. 

Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly. A warm layer of clothing, rain jacket or windbreaker, etc. may be desired. We’ll be hiking rain or shine -- please dress and pack accordingly. In the case of dangerous storms in the forecast, the rain date will be for the following week, June 14th.

Overnight accommodations can be found in the nearby towns of Palenville, Tannersville and Hunter. There is no train station nearby. Please plan ahead to make your own overnight accommodations.

Discounted food and beverages will be available at a local establishment after the event -- more information TBA. 

Questions can be directed to Jeff at CatskillMountainWild@gmail.com or 518-291-0972

WHEN: June 7th, 2017

TIME: 9:00am - 4:00pm

WHERE: Laurel House Road, Haines Fall, New York -- Upper Kaaterskill Falls

HOW TO GET THERE: Looking for a way to get to this event? Outdoor adventure just got a whole lot easier! With ReachNow's free-floating car sharing you can pick-up and return a car from anywhere in the Brooklyn home area. Round-trip and one-way rentals -- perfect for a trek to the Catskills or a quick excursion to Ft. Tilden.

ReachNow's fleet of BMW and MNI vehicles offer all the amenities, affordable day rates by the minute, hour or day, and less hassle than traditional car rentals. Plus free membership for life means no monthly or yearly fees.

Catskill Mountain Wild is a licensed outdoor guide service that offers hiking, fishing, camping, paddling and survival tours in the Catskill Mountains, Hudson River Valley and beyond. With thousands of miles of experience, Catskill Native and Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, Jeff Vincent, will guide you on your journey. Visit CatskillMountainWild.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

For 90+ years, LOWA BOOTS have been acclaimed as the finest outdoor boots in the world by climbers, mountaineers, hikers, the media and certified quality testers. Our attention to every detail in design and European manufacturing has earned our reputation for building the world's most comfortable and durable boots since 1923. 

Outdoor Academy: Survival Skills

Part of a three-day series, the Destination Backcountry Academy at OutdoorFest is a great way to learn from local guides. Join us in a fun, social setting right here in NYC to learn & practice the basics of Survival. Great as a stand alone or to prepare for our full-day or overnight classes in the woods. In this session, we’ll cover Psychology of Survival; covering topics such as Effective Decision Making Under Pressure, Needs Assessment, Risk Evaluation & Management and Utilizing Available Resources Effectively. Which, you might have noticed, are pretty valuable skills in everyday life, too!

WHEN:  Tuesday, June 6th, 2017 at 7pm

WHERE: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Destination Backcountry: We love sharing with you the most wild and beautiful places in NY! Day & Overnight Adventures Hiking, Backpacking, Holistic Adventures, Canoeing, Survival School and more. Transportation to/from NYC - your choice of Brooklyn or Manhattan! - gourmet meals and experienced, knowledgeable, friendly guides, pros at creating a relaxed, welcoming & supportive experience for novice to experienced adventurers.

 

For sports enthusiasts around the world, Paragon Sports is considered the benchmark of quality for all types of sports equipment and clothing. Privately owned since 1908, we have taken pride in showcasing products from the brands you know and love as well as unique and exceptional brands that you may not be familiar with yet. 
At Paragon Sports, we are committed to bringing you the most innovative and technologically advanced products in the sports and outdoor field. It is our mission to provide a unique and fulfilling shopping experience to every customer, every time, by setting the standard in customer service and quality product. 

 

With brews by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

 
 

Official Festival Mappy Hours at Best Made

June 6th & 7th, 2017

June 6th: Adventure photographer Natasha Shapiro will share her adventures from kayaking in Queens to glacial trekking in Patagonia.

June 7th: The Man Who Mapped The Trees, Ken Chaya, will share his journey as a NYC based naturalist and the story behind the beautifully crafted Central Park Entire Illustrated Map.

Best Made Company® is dedicated to equipping customers with quality products and dependable information that they can use and pass down for generations. www.bestmadeco.com

Outdoor Academy: Trip Planning For Success

Part of a three-day series, the Destination Backcountry Academy at OutdoorFest is a great way to learn from local guides. Outdoor professionals know that the success of a trip depends first and foremost on what you do long before you hit the trail. Putting in the right preparation means not only a safer trip, but more quality time in the woods. In this class, you’ll learn how to choose the best destinations, plan your route, pack for comfort and weight, plan a menu for taste and nutrition, and much more.

This event is part of Basecamp Paragon where OutdoorFest will be setting up shop for the week. Come by to grab schedules, get discounts, and learn + connect + and workout! #basecampparagon #outdoorfest2017

WHEN: Monday, June 5th, 2017 at 6:30pm

WHERE: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Destination Backcountry: We love sharing with you the most wild and beautiful places in NY! Day & Overnight Adventures Hiking, Backpacking, Holistic Adventures, Canoeing, Survival School and more. Transportation to/from NYC - your choice of Brooklyn or Manhattan! - gourmet meals and experienced, knowledgeable, friendly guides, pros at creating a relaxed, welcoming & supportive experience for novice to experienced adventurers.

 

For sports enthusiasts around the world, Paragon Sports is considered the benchmark of quality for all types of sports equipment and clothing. Privately owned since 1908, we have taken pride in showcasing products from the brands you know and love as well as unique and exceptional brands that you may not be familiar with yet. 
At Paragon Sports, we are committed to bringing you the most innovative and technologically advanced products in the sports and outdoor field. It is our mission to provide a unique and fulfilling shopping experience to every customer, every time, by setting the standard in customer service and quality product. 

 

With brews by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company:

 
 

Fly Fishing 101

Wondering why everyone's obsessed with fly fishing? Head over to Filson NYC for the Filson Fly Fishing Series to learn the basics of getting started with fly fishing this summer in the birthplace of American Fly Fishing... the Catskills! The expert guides from FreeStone Expeditions will be leading FREE sessions on everything from fly tying and knots to gear to reading the water. Head over for a night full of fun with beer provided by Sierra Nevada.

WHEN: Monday, June 5th, 2017

TIME: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

WHERE: Filson, 40 Great Jones St, New York, NY 10003

Established in Seattle in 1897 to outfit prospectors headed for the Yukon, Filson's 120-year legacy is built upon its reputation for honesty, quality and durability. Filson's long-lasting gear is the choice of explorers, adventurers, ranchers, hunters, anglers, engineers and anyone with a passion for the outdoors. Over a century after its founding, the Filson headquarters remain in Seattle, Washington.

 

FreeStone Expeditions is a New York guide company that helps New Yorkers escape the city to discover unique and authentic outdoor experiences combining outdoorsmanship with Catskill fly fishing.

 

With brews by :

 
 

Sailing: The NYC Harbor Excursion

Join Outward Bound for a day on the water for The New York City Harbor Excursion. Climb aboard small performance sailboats (J-24s) and explore the New York Harbor and skyline in classic Outward Bound Style. Outward Bound instructors lead team-building initiatives and our partners, Hudson River Community Sailing and Resilience Adventures, lead guided sailing trips. 

An after party to follow with food, drink and exclusive giveaways for participants and friends of Outward Bound at the Patagonia store in the Meatpacking district. 

Date: Sunday June 4, 2017

Time: 12-5PM (Sailing), 5-7PM (after party)

Location: Pier 66 Manhattan, W 26th Street and 12th Ave (off the Hudson River Greenway bike and pedestrian path)

Additional details: $195 per person, minors under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult, waiver forms need to be signed by all participants.

About Outward Bound USA: Outward Bound’s mission is to change lives through challenge and discovery. While perhaps ambitious and bold, our vision is a more resilient and compassionate world, with more resilient and compassionate citizens. Founded in 1941 by the famous educator Kurt Hahn, today Outward Bound is one of the United States leading non-profit experiential learning and outdoor education organization. Each year Outward Bound serves over 35,000 people of all ages and backgrounds across the country through challenging learning expeditions that inspire strength of character, leadership and service to others, both in and out of the classroom. Outward Bound expeditions and programs are inside city and suburban classrooms and outside in breathtaking wilderness settings. All programs adhere to Outward Bound’s unique and powerful educational framework with a core emphasis on character, leadership and service. As a result, Outward Bound builds confidence in its students and develops their abilities to interact and work effectively with others.

5K Headlamp Trail Run by CLIF

This annual 5K Night Trail Run Presented By CLIF will offer a whole new twist to your running.

At dusk the stretch team will come out and get you started, as the sun goes down and your headlamps (REQUIRED) go on. As night falls, it's ready set go for 5 kilometers on the trails of the Staten Island Greenbelt.

After you finish kick back with CLIF Bars and water, then head to the stage in the woods and enjoy a live concert from the very awesome Bandits on the Run with brews from Sierra Nevada.

Best 5K ever? Probably.

WHEN: Saturday, June 3rd, 2017

TIME: 7:00pm - 11:00pm

WHERE: Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds in Staten Island. Use 40.597034, -74.123846 for the entrance and parking lot.

FAQ:

What gear do I need to join?

Solid sneakers and a headlamp.

I usually like longer distances, will this be challenging?

Racing in the dark on trails is challenging, we promise.

I'm a beginner, can I join?

Great intro to trail running but not for beginner runners. 

I'd just like to watch and cheer on my friend do I have to pay?

No, but if you'd like beer + access to the concert please purchase the "spectator pass"

How do I get there?

Here's the location of the entrance: 40.597034, -74.123846

Option 1: It's an easy Lyft ride from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.

Option 2: Sign up for the VIP ticket and get a code for a FREE 24 hour rental for a ReachNow BMW! (You must be a new member, you must pick up and drop off in BK).

Option 3: Choose the VIP Ticket and choose the shuttle from the SI Ferry to the campground.

What's with all the other people making fires and eating s'mores?

Tonight is also the official OutdoorFest campout. If you want to come to that you need to purchase the full campout ticket which *includes* the 5K run.

Who's behind making this event so rad?

The 2017 5K run is presented by CLIF:

 
 

Header photo by Tom O'Hare.

 

Photos from last year: