Snowshoe Wine Tasting in Gunks |
 It is often said that if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Snowshoeing allows you to experience a normal day of hiking in a new and different way. Winter transforms your surroundings into something serene and placid. The crunching of snow under your snowshoes, the stillness of the air in a landscape covered by a blanket of untouched snow give the great outdoors an unspoiled feel. Lack of summertime humidity gives clearer, bluer skies in winter providing more extensive, long range views from atop outlooks than are obtainable at any other time of year. Come explore a winter wonderland as we visit the twin jewels of Minnewaska State Park Preserve and Mohonk Preserve. These parks are two of the most unique and beautiful preserves in all the New York state park system. Situated high above on the spectacular Shawangunk Mountain ridge, we will snowshoe along picturesque carriageways and foot paths to scenic overlooks that afford unparalleled views of white quartz cliffs and Hudson Valley farmland below. Snowshoeing offers a fantastic way to get in shape during the colder months of winter. The snowshoes themselves permit you to travel easily by staying on top of the snow without sinking in or “postholing” allowing you to go places with ease. We will snowshoe for about 4-5 hours on a combination of gentle carriageways and rugged narrow hiking paths. We will have plenty of stops along the way to take in the views including a great spot to enjoy our picnic lunch. After a full day of exploring outside we will kickback and relax at one of the local vineyards along the celebrated Shawangunk Wine Trail and sample some of their fine wines. Trip includes all snowshoe rental equipment, transportation costs, licensed guide, basic instruction, park fees, continental breakfast, picnic lunch and wine tasting. About winter trips – We carefully keep tabs on the weather forecast and prevailing snow conditions for each trip. You will be notified in advance if we believe existing conditions are likely to comprise the quality of the trip (lack of snow, severe weather forecast, etc). In this instance we will do everything possible to accommodate our guests: reschedule, change venues, or revert to a hiking trip with a $15 re-imbursement for the snowshoe rental. All trip details and final trip itinerary will be e-mailed to all registered guests the week of the trip date. |
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| Trip Date: Saturday - TBD, 2012 |
| Departure: 8:00 a.m. (approximately) – 8th Avenue between W31st and W33rd streets - on the steps of the US Post Office and across from Penn Station. |
| Return: 7:30 p.m. (approximately) |
| Trip Rating: Moderate/Intermediate – We will snowshoe for approximately 4 hours and cover varied terrain with moderate short climbs/descents. (learn more) |
| What's Included: Trip includes all snowshoe equipment, transportation costs, licensed guide, basic instruction, park fees, continental breakfast, picnic lunch and wine tasting. |
| What to Bring: Dress appropriately for the season and in layers - this means have the ability to take tops on/off as needed to keep you comfortable. Wear comfortable clothing that is warm and wicking - polypropylene, wool, fleece, coolmax, etc – No Cotton! We recommend long underwear underneath and waterproof or water resistant outerwear. Wear at least one pair of thick ski/hiking socks or two thinner pairs that are warm and wicking – No Cotton! Footwear is very important – boots/hiking shoes are necessary – no sneakers! Wear a warm hat and gloves. Chemical hand/foot warmers are a good idea as well (they are cheap and can be found at sporting goods and major department stores). Bring a backpack/daypack to carry your stuff – extra fleece/rain jacket, extra socks, water, extra snacks, camera, etc. If you are not sure, bring more clothing than you think you need – extra items can be left in the van. |
Trip Cost: All trip details and final trip itinerary will be e-mailed to all registered guests the week of the trip date. |
Snowshoeing & Wine in the Gunks - Transport Option
Transportation Option $79 ($79early bird)
Drive Yourself Option $59
Drive Yourself Option/with own snowhoes $39