So this review is way overdue... I had my first experience with Dave and his crew back in March of this year when I signed up for the Survival Skills package. I love being outdoors but unfortunately most of my friends don't and I never thought of going out on my own with a bunch of strangers until I came across a Groupon for DBA. I finally took the plunge and signed up and it was the best thing I ever did. Since March, I have gone on 4 more hikes and each one of them has been totally amazing experience. All the credit goes to Dave and his crew- they are excellent and the hikes are well planned. You don't have to worry about much because they do most of the work for you. Dave is an awesome guide and highly experienced. He is also extremely knowledgeable and his adventure stories keep us all entertained and laughing throughout the hikes. He is very passionate about what he does- it's just not a business for him and it clearly shows. This is something that I feel makes DBA unique and stand out amongst other similar companies. I attempted a tough hike and just when I thought I could not go any further, Dave and his crew continued to encourage me and it was a great feeling when I finally made it to the top and saw the amazing view. Along the way, I have also met some great people and feel like now I am a part of a community of lovely people that enjoy being outdoors. I'm no longer apprehensive of going on hikes, sans "friends", because Dave makes you feel like you are hiking with a good friend. I have learned so much from the hikes and from Dave and I would highly recommend DBA to anyone. They not only offer day hikes but also overnight as well as holistic adventures. I am so grateful to have found them and look forward to many more hikes with Dave and the DBA crew! read more

This Brooklyn based adventure company is great! I've been using them for the past 5 years & they haven't let me down. They are great for day hikes to the Catskills or multi-day camping trips to the Andirondacks. If you can't have a car don't worry they will pick you up at designated spots in Brooklyn & Manhattan. Super cool guides with tons of knowledge about the environment. I just did a 5 day canoe portage camping trip in the St Regis lake area in the Andirondacks with them & it was awesome. Nothing like decompressing in nature. read more

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Another awesome day hike to Giant Ledge and Panther Mtn. How amazing it was to hike with Dave again and see his adorable little girl hike up those mountains like it was second nature to her. Rey and Dave took turns leading the hike and it was so much fun. I love hiking with DBA. It doesn't matter if you bring someone with you or go alone. I never feel awkward or uncomfortable. For me , it's a guaranteed good time. DBA guides are so nice, friendly and professional. The other hikers are really nice too. There is no pressure to talk if you don't want to. You can just enjoy nature and follow along in your own thoughts if you want. Rey is a fantastic leader. Her stamina and energy are unreal. She will drive to Bklyn for her first pick up, then to Manhattan for 2nd pick up, then drive all the way to the Catskills, climb two steep mountains, and after all that, practically skip down the mountain to do all that driving in reverse back to the starting point without breaking a sweat! How??? read more

As an avid hiker with friends who are flatly unenthusiastic about nature, climbing mountains, and/or swimming rocky streams, I found myself exploring extra-urban solo adventures online. I found DBA and, with no assurances other than the website, rolled the dice, laid down $100, and signed up for a day trip to the Catskills with a bunch of strangers. After payment online, I received a confirmation email with details about what to bring, what to wear, when to meet, and what to expect from the hike. When the day of our adventure came, I woke up early and hoofed it to Grand Central to meet the group. About 12 of us packed into a passenger van at 7 AM, where we were met with fresh coffee and copious breakfast snacks. We then set out on a 3 hour drive up to the Catskills, drinking coffee and chatting. When we arrived at the trail head at the base of Westkill Mountain, the van was met with a handful of guides lead by one guy who was way too energetic for the early hour, but you can't fault people for enthusiasm. After a long wait, we started our trek, hiking up a five-mile trail through furs and boulders to the top of the mountain. The adventure I signed up for was classified as "challenging" and was pleased to find that it was indeed a hike that pushed me physically. Our efforts were rewarded at the mountain summit with breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountain Range and a bountiful lunch provided by our guides. The hike back down the mountain was easy, but I'd wished I'd followed the guidelines sent in the email and brought more water. Luckily, I found a spring along the way and filled my bottle with perfectly cold and clean ground water. At the base of the mountain, we stripped down to our swim suits and jumped in a creek supplied by an absolutely beautiful waterfall. From there, we drove to a nearby brewery with live music, fresh barbecue and outdoor seating where we slated our thirst with local beer. The drive back was long, but our feet were grateful. I got back to the city about 9 PM and was showered and fast asleep by 10 PM, happy to have filled the day with nature and new friends. Given the amount of prep I've put in to planNING my own hikes in the past, DBA is a steal considering all I had to do was pay $100 and show up. read more

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Amazing adventure!!! For a first time hike I must say that our fearless leaders ROCKED!!! I was definitely at peace and coming from a true city girl where the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle can overwhelm you this was a slice of nature you could appreciate. Challenging, yes but worth the journey. Loved the group and excited to join again in the future. Thank you. I believe I found my new passion...rain and all. read more

This group really knows how to organize a great day away from the city! From transportation to informed trail/nature guides to fun post-hike stops - everything is smoothly executed and they attract a good group of hikers! read more

Destination Backcountry his owner and guides are very professional. They are eager to help in every step of the hike. I had an amazing time, Lauren is a wonderful guide and a great person. Greg was our driver, he was great and professional. I would recommend them and I will definitely be going in more hikes in the near future. read more

I had a trip to Wittenberg with Brad. I really liked this experience. Great guide and amazing trip.

Super nice and friendly staff. Had Greg as our guide on a 3 day overnight trip in the Adirondacks. He was laidback and easy going which made for a relaxed vibe and knew how to take care of the group very well. Had another awesome guy named Wilson in the group who was like our camping chef on the trip and whipped up some tasty dishes with the bare essentials we had. I would definitely recommend this company to other people looking either for a day hike or for a few nights away from the hustle and bustle of the city. read more

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My first ever backpacking experience was one I'll never forget! Our crew of 8 set out with Brad, who was so knowledgeable and accommodating, especially getting us setup with equipment my two friends and I didn't already own. I loved learning how to use a saw for firewood, the ins and outs of the water filtration system, and portaging to a campsite. Not to mention the great meals and snacks provided by DBA! My one tip is to bring crocs as they suggest - I'll join that club the next time :) We felt very lucky to have such a helpful and fun group to spend our three days with. I couldn't have asked for a better Labor Day weekend excursion and would do another trip in a heartbeat! read more

I recently returned from the 3 day St. Regis Canoe trip. (Labor Day Weekend). I do not know when I have had so much fun, been so relaxed and had the pleasure of a great group. I have taken many trips with DBA from day hikes to this camping trip. Never a disappointment and they go out of their way to make it a special trip for all, regardless of ability. Our guide was Brad Winer, a man of many tales and experience. I always learn from him and he was so calm and cool driving us home in a massive rainstorm. I highly recommend DBA for your adventure into the mountains. read more

On January 25th, I hiked the Blackhead range and as a person who is more versed in the art of bacon cheeseburger gorging than long distance running, my Girlfriend and one of my close friends who brought me along were convinced I was going to have a coronary due to the nature of this strenuous hike. That being said, I also must disclose that I don't normally do things like hikes or climbing or anything that involves sustained amounts of physical labor that is not interspersed with several meals and a nap. However, I was very impressed at how this hike was planned out. There were breaks that gave you just enough time to catch your breath before continuing up the toughest parts up, and down, the beautiful mountain. The terrain was challenging in a very positive way, without being notably hazardous, as the guides were very diligent in offering suggestions on how to approach certain obstacles encountered along the way. The guides are very worth elaborating on as well. There is of course Dave, but I like to think of him as Davy Crockett, as he, in my opinion, has redefined what it means to live and breathe your business. The entire trip, from pick up to drop off, he immersed us in stories of how DBA was born, how it has evolved and his visions of the business (I admit I am truly jealous at how much Dave absolutely loves his job). He could walk up and down those trails with his eyes closed and point out scenic overlooks, natural rock formations, ice formations and any other visual bounty of nature you could possibly imagine by scent. This guy is good. I have never had more fun and been more entertained while pushing my body to its natural limits ever before. Dave is not only informative, his stories are hilarious, and his singing along in the van makes for a lively trip back. The other guides were clearly hand picked by Dave for their personalities, fitness and knowledge of the terrain. They were all helpful at all the right times and very accommodating in every sense of the word. If Dave is the pied piper of DBA, his guides are close behind him - very deserving acolytes. If you are on the fence about the outdoors, try this company first, as you will not only have a great time and meet some fun people, you will realize a day in the woods is not as intimidating as you may imagine. If you are an experienced hiker, you will find your outdoor zen in Dave and his merry band of guides, and I would venture to say that you would learn a lot from each other in the process (as well as be privy to plenty of laughs). There is something for everyone here, and I can't offer a more solid recommendation for Dave/DBA. I would be hard pressed to find a more outstanding outdoor experience at such an incredible value (I thought the price was too good to be true, and the truth is he doesn't charge enough, so effectively I was right:-). read more

Amazing group! I've been on a few trips with different companies based out of the city and I always love DBA. For one you can't beat the price. They take care of everything. Pick up, guides, and food. They will even let you borrow gear for free (other groups in the city charge for this). The guides are knowledgeable and super friendly. Dave the owner is a super nice guy! You can tell he does this because he truly enjoys this. Would highly recommend! read more

Excellent day out away from the city! My partner had purchased the living social deal for a day escape with destination backcountry adventures and booked for this past weekend. Dave the owner is very personable and is truly passionate about what he does. It's always nice to see people who are actually doing something that they feel strongly about. There was 12 of us on the trip and Dave said that the group is usually smaller. He doesn't like to cram tons of people into a tour, which makes it so much more personable. By the end of the day, we were all like old friends... It was a long day, but well worth it. We got to Minnewaska State Park and hiked for probably like 6 hours or so, stopping at a big rock at the top of the mountain range for a nice lunch. After a full day of hiking, we stopped at an orchard and then had dinner at The gilded otter in New Paltz... ..a very fun escape from the city. I can't wait to do it again. Soon! read more

I did the back country yoga day trip and had a great time. We were picked up on time and offered donuts and (much needed) coffee on the ride up. We did an awesome yoga class by the lake and then did a short hike to a waterfall where we ate a lunch that Destination Backcountry Adventures provided (and carried for us, thanks!). It was simple but good stuff: crackers, hummus, bread, veggie chips, trail mix, charcuterie, and cheese. After an optional guided meditation, we hiked back to the bus and stopped by a farm stand on the drive back. Mmmm fresh fruit. Overall, I was satisfied with the experience. The guides and yoga teacher were really nice people. Great personalities and attitudes. The trip also went very smoothly and they seemed well organized. My only wish was that we could have hiked more! But my opinion may be in the minority on that one haha. Will definitely be doing one of their trips again! read more

My first ever 'official' hike with DBA took place on the first weekend in November - a gloriously sunny and chilly Saturday. Dave DiCerbo and Dave Harris, our Guides Extraordinaire, were welcoming and generous and full of coffee, donuts, and broad smiles at a godforsaken 6:45 AM. We were able to take shelter in a cozy van, met our fellow Brooklyn-based hikers at 7AM, were on our way to the second pickup in Manhattan shortly thereafter. After picking up the Manhattanites, we all enjoyed a great ride to Minnewaska State Park - both Daves acting the part of human hiking wikipedias. My only complaint was that I was regrettably way on the back and missed a lot of cool stories and info! Note to the Daves: microphones and sound system! ;-) The hike itself was amazing. The Daves are so much in love with Minnewaska, among many other places, that they know the park blindfolded and forged the way to some amazing views. They also kept close tabs on our group - taking pulse checks on whether we were up for a more challenging hike. I'm proud to say we were and they adjusted accordingly - we hiked about 8 miles around the park which they showed us on the state park map at the end of our adventure, telling us with admiration how much we rocked. The lunch they supplied had elements of savory, hearty, and sweet: decadent hot cocoa, rich and posh cheeses, the quintessential trail mix, Jiffy Pop popcorn, and good ol' PB&J - yes, freshly 'ground' PB. Dinner in New Paltz was equally entertaining and fun - giving the group a chance to chat and relive the day. I can in all honesty say it was probably my best Saturday of 2011. Thank you, DBA. I so look forward to spending more winter weekends on the trail... read more

First time hiking in a while and I could not have asked for a better experience! Dave, Jess, and Rachel were knowledgeable, prepared, and so incredibly friendly. I went on my own and felt like I was with a group friends. The "gentle" hike started or with a perhaps more than gentle hike up to the top of a waterfall, but it was totally worth it to scope out such a secluded and gorgeous spot. The rest of the hike was in fact gentle, gorgeous, and so fun. Oh and their dog Winnie is probably the best! I can't wait to go in my next adventure! read more

I've been on a number of adventure tours all over the world, however the winter camping and hiking trip that I did with DBA this weekend to the summit of Mount Wittenberg BEATS THEM ALL! What made this adventure different from the rest? Here are a few keys reasons: 1) Our guides: Dave and Andrew were amazing! The skills and strength that these guys showed us and the moves that they pulled seriously qualifies them as bad-asses! Its clear that Dave and Andrew are wildness experts and wanted to share their passion for the outdoors with everyone. Their enthusiasm for adventure and the outdoors that they exuded was so contagious that they could have inspired even the most wilderness-shy individual to want to climb mountains and wrestle grisly bears!!! Importantly, Dave and Andrew were able to assess how much they could challenge the group to push us beyond our normal levels of comfort, without sacrificing our fun. They were also prepared and equipped for any situation. Everyone in the group knew that we could fully trust our guides in all situations. 2) Organization: I have NEVER been on a trip where we have been scheduled to leave at 7:30am and we actually left at 7:30am! INCREDIBLE! The whole weekend was diligently planned to a T, but Dave and Andrew were very flexible to tailor to plans according to the interests and energy level of the group. 3) FOOD: Oh my god, the FOOD! If you were under the impression that you have to leave your refined pallet home when you go camping DBA will prove you WRONG! Dave cooked up the most savory hot dinner, lunch and breakfast! And soo many goodies to snack on! 4) Fun: After safety, fun was the #1 objective of the weekend. I have never seen a bunch of people at the end of a strenuous trip that were sooo exhausted yet wearing such big smiles! If your body is aching and you can barely feel your toes but your laughing and high-fiving at the bottom of the hill - you know it was a great trip! I can't wait for my next adventure with DBA! read more

Great times despite our tumultuous weather. Spirits of our guides were high, fun and inspiring that we didn't even feel the negative temps. Great food, great help. read more

Absolute fantastic awesomeness!!!! (does that make sense?...if you hiked with Dave, it totally fits) I've done two hikes with DBA - Mt Wittenberg and Minnewaske Park. I'm truly overcome by the graciousness, variety and overall fulfillment of these tours. DBA definitely has a special touch--a composite of great energy, subject matter expertise, people and organization. Doing a day escape is such a special treat that every New Yorker deserves and if you're fit and love hiking, it truly gets no better than this. read more

Had a fantastic time with DBA at Lake Minnewaska. Their affordable trips and hikes are custom tailored for the typical New Yorker - who doesn't want the best of everything squeezed into a day trip? Dave D explained how he combined basically 3 routes into one, and the result was very cool - we saw a variery of microclimes, vistas, AND an impressive waterfall. The apple cider stop and the microbrew restaurant stops were also great. You also get an impromptu sing along in the car as a bonus! read more

Despite the crazy early pick up time (not a morning person), our guides actually had me in a good mood by the time we were halfway to our destination. Wasn't sure what to expect, but it was just a van of about 12 people, including our 2 guides and a couple "apprentice" or part-time guides. We hiked around Lake Minnewaska in the Gunks and I had a fantastic time. The guides have perfected their hikes and its clearly important to them that hikers have the best experience possible. From purifying water in the stream to make hot chocolate, to supplying coffee in the van on the ride up--things have been really thought out. Looking forward to future trips--snowshoeing next, I think! read more

I give these guys the maximum five stars. I went on a day hike last weekend in the Catskills. The pick up time was right on the dot and the ride up was pleasant. You do not need to bring anything other than water for yourself. Everything else, including those hiking sticks, are provided by DBA. Mike, our guide and driver, kept the entertainment going...especially on the ride back. He has a lot to say and made the day hike well worth it. The hike down was as equally intense as the hike up. Don't be fooled by Mother Nature. Get with DBA for some serious nature time outside the city! read more

I went hiking to Minnewaska two weeks ago. It was beautiful day and we enjoyed a lot. I am not that hiking person, but DBA people were professional and they care people. The foliage and scenery was awesome and it was interesting to hear the story of nature from them. This time, it was a small group but it will be fun to have more people to socialize with fresh air as well. I am planning to go camping again with DBA when spring comes. I am already excited to imagine. If you like to get out of the city and experience memorable outdoor activity, DBA will be perfect for you! read more

Had a great day hiking Mt. Wittenberg with Dave and the rest of the group! Our day got started early with a Brooklyn pickup at 6:30am and ended with a direct drop-off at about 11:00pm. As others have said, Dave has great energy, is passionate about nature and hiking, and seems to really care about every client. Both breakfast and lunch were great. For those wanting a relaxed hike, don't choose Mt. Wittenberg. Taken from a follow up email from Dave, "[we climbed] 8.5 + miles, and climbed and descended 2450' -- the NYC equivalent of walking up Broadway from Battery Park to about 125th St. While climbing & descending the Empire St building 3 times!!" For those that enjoy the workout, as we did, I highly recommend the climb. We are definitely going to book another trip with Destination Backcountry Adventures. read more

Extraordinary guides! I took a 3 day backpacking trip with DBA and Dave, Jess, and Alex were knowledgeable, fun, and deeply connected to the forest. I had some natural outdoor fears but their compassion and expertise helped me feel at ease in the backcountry. read more

We had an incredible trip up Mt Wittenberg last weekend. We got great advice on what to bring and had been looking forward to the trip for weeks. We found out about them through Zozi, and they typically run a promotion a season, and we'll definitely be on the lookout for the next one. Our group had mixed abilities, but everyone loved it. Getting to the summit together after 4.25 miles and more than 1200 ft ascent was an incredible moment. Wouldn't hesitate to go back to them again. Ditto what Kathleen said - even though we had a 6:30 pickup on a Saturday, donuts, coffee, and songs had us stoked for the upcoming trip. read more

I purchased a deal on Zozi and signed up for the Catskill High Peaks Loop trip, which is an overnight camping and hiking trip through the Borroughs range. I have done a few hikes (not overnight, though) through Living Social and, as a point of comparison, the Destination Backcountry Adventures trip was a bit more intense. My friend had to cancel at the last minute and this was my first true backpacking experience, so I was intimidated going in to this trip, but everything worked out really well and I had a great time. The trip was 8 hikers and 3 guides, including Dave who may be the most enthusiastic man on the planet. Everyone got along really well and had a great time. Dave is really good about having options so that he can tailor the hike based on the group's ability and make sure everyone is comfortable. Our group hiked all three mountains at a pretty fast pace. I was definitely challenged, but felt supported the entire way. For the foodies - Dinner at the campsite (steak, chorizo, and jambalaya) hit the spot after a full day on the mountain and we stopped at an amazing BBQ place to celebrate the end of the hike on Sunday. I would definitely do another trip with them. read more

This was a ton of fun and made hiking very easy. We don't have a car and haven't hiked in ages, but my boyfriend and I saw a deal on Amazon Local and jumped at the chance. Selling point? They pick you up - Manhattan or Brookyn - and drive you to the hiking site, lead you, feed you, and drive you back, with an option to stop for a group dinner before the ride home if everyone in the group agrees. The hike we did, Balsam Lake Mountain, was billed as Easy and it was a little more challenging than we'd anticipated, but mostly because we chose to take a different route down the mountain in order to pass by a natural spring,which took us down a steeped incline than the regular trail would have. The pace was good, Dave is a great guide, and the group stayed energized and happy, largely due to Dave and Lauren who were great. We will definitely go again, are already looking through upcoming hikes! read more

Dave and lily were very knowledgeable and super friendly. It was my first mountain hike and even though it was a bit intense , they patiently waited for all hikers . read more

Destination Backcountry Adventures - Westkill mountain - Hiking Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Henry David Thoreau went out into the woods so that he could live deliberately. Robert Frost, having made his way to the woods, took the road less taken. For my part, I went out into the woods to drink some mountain mocha, learn how to walk with walking poles without thinking about it, and to squeeze the life out of my camping gear so as to fit all of it into the pack. None of which would have been possible without Destination Backcountry Adventures and our wonderful guides Dave and Gregor. In all seriousness (well, not in ALL seriousness, but in MOST seriousness because you can't be too serious about nature and its accoutrements), Destination Backcountry Adventures provides a wonderful experience. I went for a one-night hiking trip with three friends in the Catskills recently. Dave, our guide, the owner of the company, and the man previously known as Day Hike Dave (TMPKADHD), obviously cares a great deal about nature, about his hikers and campers, and about making sure everyone has a great time in a safe and fun way. From the beginning of the trip, Dave and Gregor made sure that we were deliciously well-fed and comfortable. It would have been impossible for us to enjoy nature and to get as full of an experience without the expertise and logistics provided by this company. Beyond that, the whole thing is just geared to be fun. And did I mention delicious? I never ate so well in my life! (note to you: ask about dried mangoes and tomatoes; note to me: ask you to get me some). Bottom line: if you're looking for a guided trip in nature that is fun and trouble-free, look no further than Destination Backcountry Adventures. I'd recommend it. So would Thoreau. As for Frost, I am not sure he would, not because he'd have anything against it, but simply because he was rather the curmudgeon, as I understand. read more

I have been going on trips with DBA for years and I credit my survival in NYC to it completely!! The guides are incredible and every trip has been so passionately curated I want to scream about it from the Catskills Mountains and I HAVE! read more

Took a Catskills, winter day hike, with my 16 year old son to the summit of two mountains. One of which was Panther Mt. Great lunch at the summit on the summit of Panther Mt. Extra impressive considering guides carried everything in themselves. Everything about the trip was top notch. Staff was really knowledgeable about area, and went out of their way to accommodate everyone in the group. Plan on more DBA adventures. Next one will be an overnighter. read more

We had a lovely time on the day trip up Mr. Wittenburg yesterday, Dave is a phenomenal guide, tasty lunch, quite sore the today- what a workout! read more

Destination Backcountry Adventures - Mt. Wittenberg 9/29/12 - Hiking Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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This is really as good as it gets!! From the beginning to end, our experience with DBA was absolutely fantastic. Dave and Andrew went above and beyong to provide us with a fun filled, educational and safe hike through Mt Whittenberg! Both of them are extremely knowledgeable and know how to have fun while keeping safety as their number one priority. The food was absolutely delicious...gourmet lunch and dinner while camping!! Unbelievable. It really felt like a joyride through the mountain... I would recommend it to anyone - beginners to experts. it's been one day and I already miss the outdoors! Looking forward to my next trip with DBA! read more

Amazing!!! For nature lovers and non-nature lovers alike,DBA has something for everyone (and will convert non-nature lovers!)! Dave's knowledge is second to none. His love, passion, and enthusiasm for the outdoors is contagious. I cannot say enough good things about this company and its kick ass crew, so check them out for a great escape from the concrete jungle of NY! read more

Don't know if I can really say anything the other reviews haven't. I've been out on trips twice with DBA and plan on going on many more in the future. It's always nice to be able to just pack your gear and not have to worry about food, transportation, logistics, or safety. Dave, the founder and often lead guide, is the real deal -- a true mountain man. Always beaming with energy, warmth, and knowledge. New Yorkers don't get to appreciate the outdoors very often and DBA offers NYC a chance to experience true wilderness for a very reasonable price point and hikers of all skill levels. So what are you waiting for? Book today. You won't regret it. read more

This is the best guiding company I have ever experienced. Wonderful and carefully crafted adventures. Wonderful guides. Outstanding food. You'll learn a lot as well, and you'll have great company and will make new friends! Big shoutout to Dave, Henri and Lauren! Hoping to go many more trips with them. read more

I was on a overnight winter trip with Dave and it was a blast. Dave took care of all the meals and carried most of the necessities to camp. The rest of the trip revolved around relaxing around the fire, hiking off trail, and watching the stars. Be sure to listen to Dave's outdoor stories and appreciate the beauty of the wilderness. read more

We had a blast on a daily hiking trip going up Sugarloaf in the Catskills. If you are looking to get outside the city for a day, learn survival skills, stay overnight, do some more advanced stuff - DBA is the place. Dave is a fantastic guy with lots of insights and war stories. A couple things to keep in mind: 1. Dave provides snacks and food and everything is high calorie stuff as you burn a lot of energy going up hill. If you are on some dietary restriction - bring your food. 2. Bring plenty of water (2L per person for a daily trip should be enough). 3. Bring some dry clothes and get ready for some rain since it's often rainy there. 4. Wear shoes with some thread and make sure your clothes are warm enough since it's much colder uphill. read more