Welcome to NYC's beach town: Queens. Head out to the Rockaways and learn to surf. The certified instructors of Skudin Surf will start with an on land class...

Next, you'll take your foamie and head out to the ocean!

Surfboard is included. Bring beach stuff, towel sunscreen, drinks & wear a bathing suit.

Meet on the beach at 67th Street - look for the Skudin Surf Tents.

PUBLIC TRANSIT IS EASY: Take the A train straight to 67th street for your surf lesson.

Check out the Google Map here!

Dig, then ride with NYCMTB during our monthly welcome days at Highbridge park in Manhattan.

Bring your friends and family for a day of fun in the woods and learn what it takes to build, maintain, and ride the most progressive urban bike park in America. All participants, NYCMTB members, or anyone with logged volunteer hours, receive a free 20 minute clinic and a guided ride throughout the trails. Bikes and helmets provided.

Highbridge Park is the home of NYC's first Mountain Biking Course. The 3 mile course offers trails of varying difficulty from Intermediate to expert, and a free-ride trail that includes drops, steeps, and berms. The park also features a Dirt Jump Park and pump track, making it a good place to develop different skills at all levels. The course has been featured in national media, and is stewarded by volunteers just like you.

Make this day your introduction to the park, or to the sport of off-road cycling. Interested volunteers are encouraged to participate regardless of age, ability or gender. There is something for everyone at Highbridge - It's NYC's bikepark!

Highbridge Welcome Days/Second Saturdays Event Breakdown:
Service project 10:00a-12:00pm
Bike Share /Clinics and Guided rides 12:30-3pm.

Get Me There!

If You Drive -See Map. Ample street parking adjacent to the park.

***The event location listed above is approximate. Highbridge Bike Park is located 200' northeast of this address.***

Via Subway -Take the #1 Train to 191st, and use the elevators to get to street level. (DO NOT EXIT VIA TUNNEL) Hang left out of the arcade, ride three blocks and then stay right on ft George ave. Terrain park entrance is on your left.

*****Curbside Map Kiosk at the elevator street level shows trailhead location.

About your hosts:

The New York City Mountain Bike Association builds and maintains trails in the five boroughs of New York City, advocates locally and regionally for the sport of mountain biking, and fosters a community of mountain bikers in NYC. NYCMTB is a nonprofit, and a member of IMBA and USA Cycling.

In addition to building and maintaining trails, we are committed to programming events and races for youth and adults in the five boroughs of NYC, and our goal is to get more people out riding mountain bikes on trails in and out of the city. Revenue from our races funds our trailbuilding and maintenance work, which in turn creates better trails to race and ride on- a virtuous circle. Our off-trail social events are designed to bring riders together and foster a sense of community, which in turn results in greater volunteer participation. Our race team is designed both to keep racing fun for the racers of NYC, and to support our youth development team- we’re not just racing for our personal results, we’re racing to mentor the next generation of young riders and racers, and to grow the base of the sport in underserved communities in New York City while promoting fitness and a love of the outdoors.

Visit our website at; www.NYCMTB.com

Join the Riverkeeper Young Advocates Council for a 5-mile, 3-hour hike of Mount Beacon to the fire tower. Admire beautiful views of the Hudson River, and learn about the history of the Hudson River Valley and the modern threats the river faces. The hike will start and end at the Mount Beacon parking lot, Scenic Hudson Parking Lot, 788 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY 12508

Please wear athletic attire and sneakers or hiking boots, and bring a full reusable water bottle and any snacks you might want. Light snacks will be provided before the hike.

Location: Mount Beacon Trailhead

Scenic Hudson Parking Lot

788 Wolcott Ave

Beacon, NY 12508

Getting there:

• By car: The Mount Beacon trailhead is accessible by car, and parking is available in the Scenic Hudson Parking Lot.

• By public transportation from NYC: Hikers coming up from NYC can take the MetroNorth train from Grand Central (departing 7:32AM) to Beacon (arriving 9:10am) and take the free Route G Bus from the Beacon MetroNorth Station to the Route 9D (Wolcott Avenue) & Howland Avenue (Mount Beacon) stop. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available.

Questions?

Email: jbenson@riverkeeper.org

Most New Yorkers know no more about Staten Island than an occasional trip on the Ferry with visiting out-of-towners—if that. Yet, Staten Island is another world—with more designated parkland than any other borough.

On this trip, we'll drink in the humbling panorama of the world-renowned New York harbor from the Staten Island Ferry and then see forest, swamps, fresh water ponds, sandy beaches, rocky Atlantic coast and bluffs, and amazingly, open grasslands.

We’ll begin walking through the North Mount Loretto State Forest and then proceed to the sky-full vistas of Mount Loretto Unique Area on Staten Island's south shore. The rich greens of late spring should be spectacular. Resident songbirds are already nesting and raising families – the woods should be lively with their songs. The resident Bald Eagle pair, Vito and Linda, might make an appearance.

Bring your lunch to enjoy on the beach if the weather is cooperative (swimming may be possible, though the water may be cold and the beach is pebbly!) 18 and older only.

THE MEET UP: Meet at 8:30 am at the Manhattan Staten Island Ferry Terminal at South Ferry for the 9:00 am boat. (Check the MTA Weekender for any connecting subway weekend service changes. #1 Train to South Ferry or R Train to Whitehall Street/South Ferry.) Meet at the top of the escalators in the main waiting room of the Terminal near the restrooms. (Ferries leave every 1/2 hour so don't be late!) Staten Island Railway (SIR) to Richmond Valley. Approximately 5 mile walk. Return on the SIR to the St. George Ferry Terminal, and Staten Island Ferry to Manhattan. Plan on a full day outing – we will try to be back to Manhattan by 4:00 pm, but depending on train and ferry connections, it may be later! Please be prepared for 2 Metrocard fares on the SIR – transfer times are often rapid between the ferry and the train, so you don’t want to miss the connection by taking time to fill your Metrocard! IF YOU WANT TO MEET IN THE STATEN ISLAND TERMINAL (rather than in Manhattan): We will be arriving at 9:30 am. Meet us at the top of the stairs to the SIR. Driving: Meet a little after 10:00 am. You can park in the north entrance parking lot for North Mount Loretto State Forest at Amboy and Cunningham Road (on the south side of Amboy Road, east of the Richmond Valley SIR station). We will be returning to this location. $: 2 MetroCard fares: including subway/bus FREE transfers.

For more information on Keith and NYC WILD! please read his FAQ here: http://www.keithmichaelnyc.com/new-york-city-wild-.html.

About your event host:

KEITH MICHAEL is a self-styled urban naturalist, avid birder, photographer, and a dedicated explorer of New York City's five boroughs. Watching birds drives his focus, but the breadth of NYC history, and the wealth of vistas, trees, wildflowers, grasses, mushrooms, butterflies, dragonflies, as well as scaled, slithery and furred fauna that can be observed within the city is truly remarkable. Mr. Michael has published four books of writing and photographs: Let’s Go Out!: A Birder's Year in the West Village (2015); Take Me to the River (2014); Once Around the Block (2013), and 1000 Days: World Trade Center Rising (2013);leads New York City WILD! nature walking tours, co-leads Hudson River Park WILD! walks, and is a monthly contributor to WestView News: The Voice of the West Village.

When not adventuring in the city and taking photographs, Mr. Michael is a ballet choreographer, having created The Alice-in-Wonderland Follies, Mother GOOSE! and The Nutcracker for New York Theatre Ballet, and is the Dance Production Coordinator at The Juilliard School. For more information about walks, books or photographs visit www.keithmichaelnyc.com

Want more? Click HERE for the FULL SCHEDULE of New York City WILD! Summer Adventures

Header photo by Mo Skel from NYC WILD! 2015 hike to Mt. Loretto

Recharge your soul by getting outdoors for Pride with this day trip kayaking in the Hudson Valley. No experience is needed as we explore inlets, beaches, and wildlife via kayak. We’ll stop at a secluded rocky beach for a quick snack and take a refreshing dip in the river. Once back in the kayaks, we’ll head to Bannerman’s Castle. An island castle shrouded in mystery and adventure since its construction in 1901. Our guide will give a brief history as we kayak around the island, visit the eastern shore and head back. Before heading back to the city, we’ll stop for a casual, patio lunch at Woody’s - a farm-to-table burger joint that will satisfy your growing hunger

Trip Includes

• transportation to/from NYC

• kayak and gear

• snack

• friends for a life time

• experienced guides

About your host:

Get Out And Trek hosts outdoor trips for LGBTQ adventurists and friends looking to escaping the ordinary and breaking free from the everyday.

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.

About your host: 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.

This is urban adventure like you've never before experienced. That's right, the Gowanus Dredgers are taking you paddling *on the Gowanus Canal*.

Expect an exciting paddling adventure laced with a good bit of history as your guide Owen rows you through the background of the canal, the way its been restored, and local environmentalism in Brooklyn.

This is a side of NYC you've never seen before.

About your host:

Since 1999 the Gowanus Dredgers have empowered people to care for the Gowanus Canal through advocacy, conservation, and education. We encourage an understanding of the NY-NJ harbor as a resource for recreation and education as well as a waterway for commuters, tourists and goods.

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

Header photo by Stephen Elliot of Mud Productions.

This class will introduce you to topographical maps and how to read them, all types of compasses, and how to use a map and compass in tandem to navigate. You’ll learn how to read, take and follow bearings, and more.

About your host: 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.

You’ve seen the photos of vanlifers in National Parks and out on the open road, but what does vanlife look like in New York City? Tonight, we’ll hear from Nathan Staiger and Aaron Randolph, two NYC based vanlifers on how they make it work here in NYC. Nate attends culinary school during the day while Aaron is a charter school teacher. Both are avid climbers, using the gym not only as their training facility but as their go-to shower spot. Along with saving on rent, Nate and Aaron are also easily able to drive their vans upstate for exciting weekend adventures.

Grab a Sierra Nevada brew and relax as you listen to living life free from leases and full of adventure.

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

About your host:

Columbia Sportswear Company was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, making gear so that Pacific Northwesterners could enjoy the outdoors longer. At the helm for over 45 years has been our Chairman, Gert Boyle. Her Tough Mother ethos has grown Columbia into the global sportswear company that it is today—still based in Portland, still making no-nonsense apparel and footwear to protect you from the elements.

TESTED TOUGH PROMISE: Mrs. Boyle once famously said, “It’s perfect. Now make it better.” Her ethos is what charges us every day to make gear that is TESTED TOUGH. TESTED TOUGH is the guarantee that every Columbia product has been tested in the harshest conditions Mother Nature can muster. Not just by the Boyles, but by every Columbia employee, day in and day out. The entire company carries on the Boyle family spirit, always designing and testing products to keep you more protected more of the time.

Join Cultured Forest for two hours of guided Forest Bathing in the North Woods of Central Park. Forest Bathing is based on a Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku that involves connecting with nature by “Bathing in the Forest Atmosphere”.

Studies show time in nature lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity and reduces stress. In this activity, you will indulge with fellow nature lovers in relaxing mindfulness and self-care in a guided outdoor class. Plan to see some of the most natural settings of the park, while learning activities that allow you to better connect with yourself and the outdoors. Leave feeling centered, connected and more at peace.

We are excited to end this session with a tea ceremony that includes a Q&A with Dan Tainow an Urban Park Ranger at Central Park where he will answer any and all questions about the park. Attendees must be 14 years or older. This will require about a mile of hiking with some stairs and walking up and down steep inclines and over rocks.

Directions to event: Meet at the entrance to the Great Hill at Central Park at 103rd and Central Park West

About the Culture Forest:

Cultured Forest started with the intent to aid our clients in finding balance and well-being by promoting awe inspiring experiences in Art and Nature.  We believe in creating environments and opportunities for growth. 

 We do this by encouraging our clients to find healing opportunities whether it be through the appreciation of a beautiful work of art, a traveling adventure or Forest Bathing. Forest Bathing involves the art of taking in the forest atmosphere through mindfulness exercises that improve productivity, creativity and health.  We believe an enriched life of cultural and outdoor experiences leads to empowered individuals and communities.

Tents are nice but what if you want an ultralight backcountry experience? Tonight, Greg Wilson from Freestone Expeditions will lead a class on shelter building in the backcountry. The class will also cover basic knots you need to know for shelters. Prepare to leave with a new skill to take with you into the outdoors! 

This event is part of OutdoorFest, a 10-day outdoor adventure festival throughout the city. Find out more at www.OutdoorFest.com/schedule. 

About your organizer: Mappy Hour is a community of urban dwelling outdoor enthusiasts. Join to learn a new skill and meet a new adventure buddy!

This event is also hosted and made possible by the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club, advocating for a vibrant, accessible Gowanus waterfront for over 20 years. 

www.gowanuscanal.org/

We'll be back for a third night of basecamp at Columbia Sportswear for a night of storytelling, laughter and a few Sierra Nevada brews.

Tonight we’ll be graced by Justin Bailey of the Outdoor Ethos and Melissa Goodwin of Girl Gotta Hike. These NYC based adventurers will be sharing their stories of “When You Just Have to Laugh….Mishaps and Misadventures” as they navigate living in the city and loving the outdoors.

Next, we will open the story slam to all of you! We'll randomly choose two people to tell YOUR stories. Each story will be limited to 5 minutes and we ask that you keep it PG. 

This will be a night to remember so find your story with the theme "When You Just Have to Laugh….Mishaps and Misadventures" and bring it with you to Columbia on the 5th!

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

About your host:

Columbia Sportswear Company was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, making gear so that Pacific Northwesterners could enjoy the outdoors longer. At the helm for over 45 years has been our Chairman, Gert Boyle. Her Tough Mother ethos has grown Columbia into the global sportswear company that it is today—still based in Portland, still making no-nonsense apparel and footwear to protect you from the elements.

TESTED TOUGH PROMISE: Mrs. Boyle once famously said, “It’s perfect. Now make it better.” Her ethos is what charges us every day to make gear that is TESTED TOUGH. TESTED TOUGH is the guarantee that every Columbia product has been tested in the harshest conditions Mother Nature can muster. Not just by the Boyles, but by every Columbia employee, day in and day out. The entire company carries on the Boyle family spirit, always designing and testing products to keep you more protected more of the time.

Join Hudson River Park's Estuary Lab, Lizzie Outside, Cafeteria Culture and Grant Goldner for an evening on the Hudson River!

This two-part event begins at 5:30pm with a shoreline clean-up along Hudson River Park's Pier 76. By participating in this clean-up you will be contributing to HRPK Estuary Lab's ongoing survey of plastics in the Hudson River. Meet by the water, just outside of Roula Cycling, by entering the Park at 34th St. & 12th Ave then walking north to become a steward of the Hudson River.

Classic Car Club Manhattan opens its doors at 7:00pm for the second part of this event: a screening of Lizzie Outside's documentary "The Hudson Project," followed by a preview and excerpts from Cafeteria Culture's documentary "MICROPLASTIC MADNESS - Brooklyn Kids Take on Plastic Pollution." After the screenings, there will be a panel discussion + Q&A moderated by Anna Koskol (HRPK's Estuary Lab). On this panel, Carrie Roble (HRPK's Estuary Lab), Lizzie Carr (Lizzie Outside), Atsuko Quirk (Cafeteria Culture) and Grant Goldner will share what they've been doing to understand plastic pollution, explore solutions and engage their communities. Refreshments are available at the cash bar inside the venue.

Location and Directions

Classic Car Club at Hudson River Park’s Pier 76

408 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10018

Click here for driving directions to Classic Car Club Manhattan

Click here for drop-off and public transit directions to Classic Car Club Manhattan

About your hosts:

Hudson River Park’s (HRPK) Estuary Lab offers hands-on education and interactive scientific research with the purpose of communicating the ecological importance of the Park’s 400-acre Estuarine Sanctuary. Through the Estuary Lab’s park-wide programs, visitors are invited to experience the River as a living laboratory for community engagement and stewardship.

Hudson River Park Estuary Lab hosts free and low-cost environmental education programs for school groups, summer camps and the general public, using the Hudson River waterfront as its classroom.

Take the experience of an indoor gym outside. Learn the basics of bouldering in a controlled environment while still enjoying the beautiful weather at NYC's newest outdoor climbing facility!

$25 covers gear, climbing AND class!

About your host for the night:

The Cliffs Climbing + Fitness is a leading indoor rock climbing and fitness company. The Cliffs operates three facilities including New York City’s largest indoor rock climbing gym located in Long Island City as well as its original location in Valhalla, New York and a new outdoor bouldering gym in Dumbo, Brooklyn. The Cliffs prides itself on delivering a premium indoor rock climbing experience for all ages and abilities.

Head to MKC on the Hudson River to try Stand Up Paddleboarding alongside the historic intrepid. Tonight you’ll have a chance to head out on the water for a 45 minute “taste of Stand Up Paddleboarding”. You’ll also be able to meet the professional guides of MKC and learn about other SUP opportunities throughout the summer. Bonus: this is also one of the best spots in NYC to watch the sunset.

About your hosts:

MKC strives to provide a fun 'outside' environment in the middle of the city. We form educated paddlers so they are capable to explore the busy waterways of New York City, enjoy the sites and get away without being far away. Accessible, adventurous, fitness oriented, outdoor fun for all!

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.

About your host: 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.

The secret to living in New York City is knowing how to get outdoors locally - whether that’s after work or on a Sunday afternoon as you prepare for your week ahead. Tonight, we’re joined by the founders of Brooklyn Basecamp - Joe & Samantha - to learn about their favorite spots to find the outdoors in the city. The team is constantly testing and trying new microadventures so tonight, come prepared to learn about unique spots and how to get outdoors this summer without leaving the five boroughs.

Grab a Sierra Nevada brew and join us at Columbia Sportswear for a night of learning.

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

About your speakers:

Brooklyn Base camp collects, collaborates & inspires others from brooklyn & beyond to explore through urban adventures & outdoor pursuits. Follow them on instagram.

Joseph Agudelo 

Founder

Joseph Agudelo is the Founder of Brooklyn Base Camp, an online platform that inspires others from Brooklyn & beyond to explore through urban adventures & outdoor pursuits. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Joseph went from climbing trees, jumping train tracks and swimming in Coney Island to rock climbing, jumping out of planes and scuba diving around the world. 

Samantha Lopez

Co-Founder 

Samantha Lopez is the co-founder of Brooklyn Base Camp. Born and raised in Brooklyn she loves exercising her balance between city life and the outdoors by planning trips and adventures across the country. She finds her inspiration through mountains and her love for painting. Bringing people together through adventure and exploration has always been a source of joy for her.  

About your host:

Columbia Sportswear Company was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, making gear so that Pacific Northwesterners could enjoy the outdoors longer. At the helm for over 45 years has been our Chairman, Gert Boyle. Her Tough Mother ethos has grown Columbia into the global sportswear company that it is today—still based in Portland, still making no-nonsense apparel and footwear to protect you from the elements.

TESTED TOUGH PROMISE: Mrs. Boyle once famously said, “It’s perfect. Now make it better.” Her ethos is what charges us every day to make gear that is TESTED TOUGH. TESTED TOUGH is the guarantee that every Columbia product has been tested in the harshest conditions Mother Nature can muster. Not just by the Boyles, but by every Columbia employee, day in and day out. The entire company carries on the Boyle family spirit, always designing and testing products to keep you more protected more of the time.

Embrace Challenge with The Movement Creative and extend your thinking about what you can do.  Explore parkour and movement challenges in a fun and supportive environment at a beautiful Manhattan location with a gorgeous sunset.  Skills and techniques are presented in a scalable, progressive format so that they are safe, fun, and challenging no matter your experience level.

Location:  The Sanctuary/64th Street on the Hudson/9a Hudson River Greenway/descend to river at 68th Street

About The Movement Creative:

Sessions are designed through direct collaboration with our coaches to ensure that each movement challenge and experience is inclusive and scalable across every skill level.

Every athlete should begin and end every session feeling like they are a part of a team.

Header photo by Steve Zavitz 

The L train breaks down under the East River. You get lost on a day hike with little food and only half a nalgene of water. Whether in New York City or out in the backcountry, being prepared for a survival scenario takes practice and preparation. Tonight, join us as we hear from outdoor guide Dave Dicerbo on how to best prepare for survival in both the city and the great outdoors.

Grab a Sierra Nevada brew and join us at Columbia Sportswear for a night of learning.

About your instructor: 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.

About your host:

Columbia Sportswear Company was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, making gear so that Pacific Northwesterners could enjoy the outdoors longer. At the helm for over 45 years has been our Chairman, Gert Boyle. Her Tough Mother ethos has grown Columbia into the global sportswear company that it is today—still based in Portland, still making no-nonsense apparel and footwear to protect you from the elements.

TESTED TOUGH PROMISE: Mrs. Boyle once famously said, “It’s perfect. Now make it better.” Her ethos is what charges us every day to make gear that is TESTED TOUGH. TESTED TOUGH is the guarantee that every Columbia product has been tested in the harshest conditions Mother Nature can muster. Not just by the Boyles, but by every Columbia employee, day in and day out. The entire company carries on the Boyle family spirit, always designing and testing products to keep you more protected more of the time.

This walk will take your mind on a raucous journey: the spring high tide pre-historic mating pilgrimage of horseshoe crabs to east coast beaches to lay their eggs. Horseshoe crabs are one of the oldest creatures on earth, having evolved little in 250 million years. Full and new moons bring higher tides which bring the “crabs”, really more closely related to terrestrial spiders, higher on the beach to deposit their eggs.

The primal orgies of the instinctual hook-ups in the sand and surf truly need to be seen to be believed. Many migrating shorebirds have timed their journey over milennia to arrive on beaches in time to feast on the horseshoe crab eggs! We hope to have an evening of shorebirding as well!

Bring a picnic dinner. We hope it won’t be too nippy to enjoy dinner on the beach! Bring a flashlight. (Sunset 8:22 pm)

Various MEET UP LOCATIONS: 

West Village, Manhattan: Meet at 5:15pm at the DOWNTOWN/Front/First Car of the 14th Street DOWNTOWN 2 Train platform. We will board the FIRST car of the FIRST 2 Train that pulls into the station after 5:30pm to Flatbush Avenue/Brooklyn College (last stop). B44 Bus south on Nostrand Avenue to Knapp Street/Plumb Beach (last stop). Approximately 2 mile walk. Return to Manhattan by same route.

Brooklyn: Meet at approximately 6:30pm at the B44 Select Bus Stop on Nostrand Avenue/Brooklyn College, on the west side of Nostrand, just north of Avenue H, diagonally across from the Target Mall. 

If you are driving in Brooklyn: Meet at approximately 7:00pm at Plumb Beach at Knapp Street and Emmons Avenue, beachside on the bicycle path. There is street parking in the area. DO NOT PARK at the Plumb Beach Parking Lot off of the Belt Parkway - this lot closes at dusk and we will be out after dark!

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

• BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH/DINNER. We will stop for a picnic along the way—outside. Bring your picnic with you rather than expecting to stop along the way to "pick something up". Some walk itineraries may include end-of-walk conviviality at a local eatery—watch the listings for these scheduled festivities.
  
  

• Water

• Dress appropriately for the forecasted weather—hat, jacket, layers to take off or put on if temperatures change. In general, it can be windier and cooler (or hotter) at these locations than in Manhattan. Bring an umbrella for surprise changes in weather.

• Sturdy closed-toed walking shoes that you aren’t too concerned about getting muddy or wet. No sandals or flip-flops.

• Binoculars if you have them. If not, we will share.

• A camera. Each walk offers endless photo opportunities.

• Sun screen and insect repellent. Insects should be a minimal concern for most trips.

• PLEASE use your cell phone sparingly for emergencies only (and generously for taking memorable photos of the walk!)

• Enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.

DO I NEED TO SIGN A LIABILITY WAIVER?

YES. You will be asked to sign a liability waiver statement, agreeing to release and hold harmless Keith Michael and New York City WILD! from any and all liability arising out of or resulting from your participation. Your participation in these walks is on a completely voluntary basis and you are responsible for your own personal safety and well-being. Read the complete statement included with this event listing.

HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?

Write to newyorkcitywild@gmail.com for any additional information. All outings are available for private walks, group bookings, or other events. When making inquiries, please indicate the date and destination of the walk for which you have questions. More detailed information about each walk will be sent by e-mail to participants a few days before each scheduled outing.

WHO IS THAT NEW YORK CITY WILD! GUY?

KEITH MICHAEL is a self-styled urban naturalist, avid birder, photographer, and a dedicated explorer of New York City's five boroughs. Watching birds drives his focus, but the breadth of NYC history, and the wealth of vistas, trees, wildflowers, grasses, mushrooms, butterflies, dragonflies, as well as scaled, slithery and furred fauna that can be observed within the city is truly remarkable. Mr. Michael has published four books of writing and photographs: Let’s Go Out!: A Birder's Year in the West Village (2015); Take Me to the River (2014); Once Around the Block (2013), and 1000 Days: World Trade Center Rising (2013); leads New York City WILD! nature walking tours, co-leads Hudson River Park WILD! walks, and is a monthly contributor to WestView News: The Voice of the West Village.

When not adventuring in the city and taking photographs, Mr. Michael is a ballet choreographer, having created The Alice-in-Wonderland Follies, Mother GOOSE! and The Nutcracker for New York Theatre Ballet, and is the Dance Production Coordinator at The Juilliard School. For more information about walks, books or photographs visit www.keithmichaelnyc.com

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

Join Red Hook Boaters for another year of guided kayaking adventures for a cause! Their expert guides will lead you on a tour leaving from Valentino Pier in Red Hook.

Paddle toward Governors Island - the largest car-free green space in New York City.

Upon return enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese snack. 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).

Header photo taken by the talented Jonathan Barkley and features the 2017 kayak crew!

About the event host:

The Red Hook Boaters is an all volunteer not-for-profit organization. This exclusive event is a fundraiser for their summer long free kayaking and beach clean-up programs at the Louis J Valentino Park in Red Hook Brooklyn.

OutdoorFest is a 10-day outdoor adventure festival in the five boroughs of New York City. Join us from May 31 – June 9, 2019 to paddle, bike, hike, camp and more all over the city! outdoorfest.com/schedule

Ready to explore the recreational possibilities that are literally at your doorstep? The Long Path runs from Fort Lee, NJ (the other side of the George Washington Bridge) all the way up to the Adirondacks!

Join Upstate Adventure Guides for a 6 mile hike on the Long Path (via the A train - no car required). Throughout the hike, you'll both explore and discuss the Long Path it's history, it's current state and the "walk" from New Jersey to the Adirondacks. You'll also learn about other hikes accessible by bus or train to outdoor enthusiast in the NYC metro area.

From big mile thru-hikers to newer hikers looking to explore nature this event will cover a little bit for everyone that loves to get out and explore. 

MEET: We will meet at the NW corner of 177th st. & Cabrini Blvd. We will then proceed across the GWB to the beginning of the LP in Fort Lee Historic Park. Check out the Google Map here!

BRING: Bring layers and wear appropriate footwear for 6 mi. walk, and bring water and a snack.

About your host, the Upstate Adventure Guides: 
Upstate Adventure Guides LLC was founded by Will Soter & Alex Marra two friends with a shared passion for the outdoors and decades of combined experience. Both Soter & Marra are NYS DEC licensed guides. Additionally, they serve as Trails Chairs for the NY/NJ Trail Conference in the Southern Catskills, overseeing the maintenance of roughly 120 mi. of trail.

Soter is also a Director at Large for the New York Outdoor Guide Association (NYSOGA), and he recently founded the Catskills Adventure Tourism Summit in an effort to expand, improve, and drive tourism in the Catskills. To learn more about Upstate Adventure Guides you can click this link: https://www.facebook.com/UpstateAdventureGuides/

The Escarpment is a three thousand foot wall of ledges and cliffs that rises abruptly from the Hudson Valley along the eastern edge of the Catskills, providing jaw dropping views over the valley and, on a clear day, into Massachusetts, Vermont and Connecticut. This particular area of the Escarpment has been a popular destination for hiking for over 200 years and there is a reason the famed hotels of the Catskills’ Golden era were located here. Come explore the legendary viewpoints, forests, brooks, and lakes that inspired the Hudson River Valley School of Painters and authors like James Fenimore Cooper who brought the Catskills national renown.    

This trip picks up at the Staten Island OutdoorFest Campout!

Great for: picturesque landscapes and views

Bonus: plenty of time for photos, and they’ll look awesome

TIP: Use the option for “OUTDOORFEST” to get the discounted $99 price.

About your host: 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.

This annual Salomon 5K Night Trail Run + Concert will offer a whole new twist to your running.

As dusk sets in, finish registration, try on Salomon demo shoes and stretch. Then, as the sun goes down, 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 some water, then head to the stage in the woods, sip some cold brews from Sierra Nevada and dance at our live show.

To register for just the 5k - choose the DAY PASS option.

Hosted by OutdoorFest. Photo by Tom O’Hare.

Come for the ultra and stay for the party! All trail run tickets get you access to the after party with a live show and beer by Sierra Nevada.

The clock will be set for 6-hours and you (or your relay team) will need to run as many laps on our 7k course as you can. Then you get to rest, hydrate and check your splits before joining in for beer, dancing and a live show. Note: this is registration for the Salomon OutdoorFest Ultra.

Hosted by OutdoorFest