RipVanWinkle Adventure Guides - Catskill, New York

Sarah S.

Hiking with Greg was wonderful! He's so knowledgeable about the area, from the climate to the geography to the history to the ecology. He was my guide for the week, and he made my first visit to the Catskills an amazing experience. He had the trekking poles and microspikes needed for winter hiking, and snowshoes if we had needed them. He catered hikes to my needs and interest and was flexible with weather conditions.

In addition to his knowledge and experience, Greg is a pleasant person to spend time with. He's very interesting to talk to, and is always open to conversation, but he's also comfortable with stretches of quiet where we can just appreciate the sounds and silence of nature. I felt very comfortable with him. He was also so chill about my constant need to stop and take pictures, ask questions, or make recordings.

I would highly recommend Greg to anyone visiting the Catskills. Prepare for a wonderful adventure!

Erica L.

Greg is super knowledgeable of the area. He is very responsive and easy to book. We planned to run/hike the Devils Path, a point-to-point trail, and he met us early enough in the morning to be able to finish not long after dark. Even gave us some tips! Highly recommend.

Jennifer C. S.

My 12 year old son and I just got back from a trip with Greg to get a feel for what it would be like to hike in gear for an overnight and camp wilderness style. Greg is a wealth of knowledge and we learned so much from him in just 24 hours. We got to practice setting up camp, making a killer campfire, filtering water, camp cooking with a Jetboil, hoisting food up high enough so it's bear proof, basic compass skills for navigation and so many more little details that come into play when you're out in the woods. We feel like total badasses now and are ready to hit the Escarpment Trail for some more wilderness camping. Thanks Greg!

Ian L.

Amazing service! Picked me up right on time. Crucial link in my plan to hike the entire devil's path in a day. All the little gems of information and history and geological makeup of the area really elevated my experience. Communication was always prompt and clear.

Barbara C.

I have been on several guided hikes with Greg from RipVanWinkle Adventure Guides. If you're looking for an awesome adventure then this is the guide for you. Greg knows his way around any mountain, especially while bushwacking. He is very knowledgeable of the history that the Catskill Mountains hold and his passion for these mountains simply amazes me. With Greg's vast experience i felt totally safe on each & every hike with him. Not to mention the delicious snacks that he includes when you reach the summit! Book a guided hike today with RipVanWinkle Adventure Guides. You certainly will not be disappointed!

Henry D.

I just finished my sixth hike with Greg of Rip Van Winkle Adventure Guides this past weekend - a sunset hike up Overlook Mountain. Every hike I learn more about the Catskill region's history and wildlife, and about the best practices for hiking. Greg is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide who encourages his clients to meet their hiking goals and enjoy outdoor adventures. If you are seeking an excellent guide for your next hike, Greg is your man. Happy trails.

Saul S.

Greg took me on a great archery hunt for white tails!

We got into the spot before daybreak, heard a group of does stirring, watched a fisher cat messing around and spooked the does.

At mid day, we relocated. Greg taught me how to build a ground blind, clearing leaves and piling up dead branches.

I attempted, unsuccessfully, to stalk a doe before sundown.

Despite not getting a deer, I learned a bunch from Greg, saw a ton of critters, and enjoyed my time in the woods! Can’t wait for October to head back into the mountains and try again!

Straight F. T. H.

Crusing around the Catskills on a motorcycle allows you to see a lot of scenery and signs to places you can't get to without getting off the bike. With the warmer weather we've had we've been wanting to get back out k9 there. Unfortunately it's still not biking weather for the wife. We contacted RIP VanWinkle Adventure guides to explore the trails.

Not being in the best shape of my life was a bit of a concern to get into the woods but Greg guided us on a hike based on our abilities. He was very flexible and accommodating.

Can't wait to take one of his kayak tours this summer.