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WOMEN'S:

NEXT STEP BACKPACKING


Ladies! Ready to try backcountry camping in the Canadian Rockies?

Alright, ladies! Are you ready to push past that single-night trip? Or, are you eager and ready to jump right past the introduction?
Let's head out into the backcountry of Banff National Park for three days and teach you all there is to know about backpacking! We will hike up to 12km into a backcountry campground and set up a base camp. Spending two nights here we'll have a lot of opportunity to practice our skills, explore off trail, and get you out front! After three days in the backcountry you will be an absolute pro at camping!

Dates and Bookings

Adventure Dates 2025:

  • June 26-29
  • Aug 21- 24

Disappointed the trips are sold out? Contact us to join our waitlist

Have a group of friends who want to get out? We can put together a private trip just for you!

 

Adventure Rates:
  • Participants:

    CAD $575 + applicable taxes

  • Information package will be given upon registration
  • We value small groups - limited to 6 adventurers
  • This is a Women's trip

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What is the difference between the Women's Next Step and the Women's Intro?

The Next step is more physically challenging with longer hiking distances and an extra day. The next step also provides the opportunity for you to practice your skills under the guidance of an expert. This Women's Intro is for those looking to learn the skills and the Next Step is for those wanting to practice and take on more leadership.

Itinerary and Gear

Planned Itinerary

  • Day 1:
    Today is for the pre-trip meeting only. The meeting will be held in person at 7pm in Canmore, AB. Location TBD. We will make sure everyone has everything they need, introduce the group, laugh lots, and distribute the group gear. Attending virtually is also an option.
  • Day 2:
    We'll wake up full of energy and drive to the trailhead. The day will be spent hiking to our campground, exploring, and learning about the local animals! Delicious home made dehydrated meals will fill our bellies. Topped off with desert we will head to bed with a smile on our face!
  • Day 3:
    Wake up to the smell of coffee delivered to your "door". After an amazing breakfast relish in the fact that we don't need to move camp. We will spend the day exploring off trail and practicing our navigation and decision making skills. Each person will take a turn out front while under the guidance of the guide. The day is our own adventure!
  • Day 4:
    Today we get to sleep in and enjoy the wilderness before heading back to civilization. Taking our time to appreciate our surroundings we will hike out to our cars. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment as you just spent two nights in the backcountry!

Level of Difficulty

This trip is designed to teach women the skills they need to become independent in the backcountry. No previous experience is necessary but this should not be your first hike of the year. You will need to carry your personal gear plus food and water for up to 12km each day. When packing, be mindful that your pack should not weight more than 30lbs.

Want to get your body ready for the trip? Check out this 6 week training program. Follow this and you'll be set. Lets learn together and have some laughs!

6 week hiking fitness program      Hiking Fitness Series  

Have questions swirling around, don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to help!

Gear, Food and Lodging

Included:

  • Backcountry skills learning

  • Wilderness pass for one night
  • Tents for camping
  • Amazingly delicious food from the evening of day 1 to lunch on the last day
  • The expertise from an ACMG Guide
  • All group gear - stoves, pots, food storage materials, water treatment, sunblock, bug spray
  • All safety equipment - bear spray, first aid kit, emergency communication device, and tarp

Participants must provide: