Are you looking to do something completely different this weekend? Want to have a really good answer to the "What did you do this weekend" questions?  Want to learn some basic camping, hiking, and backpacking skills? Want to learn more about the Highlands region, its flora, fauna, and history? Want to get reconnected with the outdoors in a meaningful and memorable way? You'll have some great stories to tell because if you're up for a challenge and a real adventure, this trip is for you!!

We have designed this adventure for people who have never really been in the woods overnight outside of a campground. You may already enjoy "car camping" but long to see what its like to backpack into the woods to camp and get reconnected with the earth, without the modern convieniences of running water, or electricity. We eliminate the biggest barriers to people giving backpacking a try: The equipment costs too much to "try" Don't really know how to do it  Don't really know where to do it Afraid it will be too much work and no fun

We take the time to listen to you and understand what level of experience you are looking for and then build a trip to meet your unique preferences, skills and abilities.  You must be in reasonably good physical condition and able to carry a pack weighing at least 15- 20 pounds. Maximum group size for this adventure is 6 plus 2 guides. This helps us to ensure a quality experience that is challenging, safe, and educational but most of all, fun!

We'll pick you up from the bus stop here in Hewitt, N.J. on Friday evening and take you to a local pub and restaurant for dinner, refreshments, and review of the trip ahead. This casual evening provides a chance to get to know one another, answer any questions you might have and clarify expectations for the adventure. Its also your last chance to use a flush toilet and running water for the rest of the weekend so enjoy! After dinner we bring you to an already assembled campsite on the edge of the forest where you'll spend the night in your tent.

We rise early at 6:30 and after coffee, break camp and pack up for the trip. We take to the trail and after about a mile hike through the woods, link up with the legendary Appalachian Trail for the rest of our adventure! Depending on the level of challenge you're up for, the initial 6 miles can be done with or without a backpack. Unless you're in REALLY good shape, we suggest "without"!

After breakfast at a senic overlook, we continue along the AT on a ridgeline and then down into a hemlock ravine and forest. The terrain is varied as is the variety of wildlife you may see along the way. Deer, coyotes, bobcats, and even black bears prowl the woods while bald eagles, osprey, vultures and hawks of all kind soar through the sky! A picnic lunch is served along the way with time to relax and get your strength up for the next leg of the journey. We pick up our packs for the final 2 miles or so to our camp. We make camp for the night and settle in for some well deserved dinner, rest, and relaxation! Weather permitting, a campfire and marshmellows complete the evening.

Up early again, we have breakfast and step back out on the trail, this time heading back south along the route we came for about 2 miles. Transportation waiting will take us to one of several locations depending on weather and preferences to hike, swim, canoe, horseback ride, or explore some of the historical attractions in the area. One customer favorite is the Highlands Natural Pool. This unique pool was hand dug over 50 years ago and is fed entirely by spring water - no chemicals! After lunch and additional hiking or swimming, we get you back to the bustop in time for the 4 pm to NYC and the conclusion of your eco adventure!