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• Sunday Send Sessions

  • When
    Sun, March 22, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Winnipeg, MB
  • Spaces left
    18

  Register

  Please review our full COVID-19 policy and safety practices here. 

  PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT (March 21) 

  Backcountry Women's Sunday Send Sessions are a great way to enjoy movement and meet great people! To “send” means successfully reaching the top and finishing a climb.

  Join us for a fun and supportive way to improve your physical and mental well being through indoor rock climbing. We have this space privately booked for us, so don’t fear – just join us! If you have doubts about your fitness level or fears in general when it comes to climbing, we are here to help you step outside your comfort zone safely and try this amazing sport. We are excited to help build your confidence up and introduce you to an awesome community of people.

  This event is open to all experience levels, including beginners who will receive an orientation to the gym at the beginning of this event. There will be additional opportunities for those beyond the beginner stage at each of our Sunday Send Sessions to build your climbing skills.

  Equipment is included for anyone requiring it (harnesses, shoes) or you are free to bring equipment you own. Short fingernails are recommended. Leave any jewelry at home. Please wear comfortable athletic clothing, indoor running shoes and bring a water bottle.

  NOTE: DUE TO THIS BEING A PRIVATE BACKCOUNTRY WOMEN EVENT CREATED FOR MEMBERS OF THE BACKCOUNTRY WOMEN COMMUNITY, YOU CANNOT APPLY ANY PASSES YOU HAVE PURCHASED FROM VERTICAL ADVENTURES TO THIS EVENT.

  Event leaders: Backcountry Women's Founder, Ashley Moore - Click for more information

  Arrival Time: 10:00 AM. Please be on time. We will begin the activity promptly with introductions and an orientation to the gym for any beginners or new climbers.

  Location: Vertical Adventures (Winnipeg)

  
  

  In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the ancestral lands of the Ininiw, Anishinaabe, and Dakota Nations, and the homeland of the Metis Nation.  Our organization, Backcountry Women, is based on Treaty No. 1 Territory, and we appreciate that this event takes place on Treaty No 1. Territory.

  Average Difficulty Rating: 3/5. 

  

  Duration: Approximately 2 hours. 
  Experience: All skill levels welcome. 
  
  Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mail prior to an event.

  
  This event allows cancellation no less than 7 days before start of event. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our Cancellation Policy.

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• OCC Field Leader Hiking Certification Course

  • Start
    Sat, March 28, 2026
  •  
    8:30 AM
  • End
    Sun, March 29, 2026
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    TBA (within 50 kms of Winnipeg)
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 2 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (MARCH 26)

  PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

  OCC Course: Level Up Your Leadership with Backcountry Women

  At Backcountry Women, we believe that "knowledge is power." We are thrilled to host the Outdoor Council of Canada’s Field Leader (Hiking) certification—a 16-hour, two-day intensive course designed to turn experienced hikers into confident outdoor leaders.

  Why Take This Course?

  This isn’t just about trail navigation; it’s about the "human" side of leadership. You will learn the systematic "Event Cycle" used by professionals across Canada to plan, manage, and execute safe, meaningful outdoor experiences. Whether you are looking to lead for a club, a school, or simply want to ensure your own friends and family are in good hands, this certification provides the peace of mind that you are using industry-accepted practices.

  What You’ll Learn:

  • Visioning & Planning: How to design a hike that matches your participants' needs and abilities.
  • Risk Management: Identification and mitigation of hazards before they become problems.
  • Mindful Leadership: Strategies for group management, effective communication, and creating an inclusive environment.
  • The Event Cycle: A step-by-step framework for pre-trip planning, last-minute checks, and post-trip debriefing.

  Course Schedule:

  • Day 1 (Classroom): Diving into the OCC manual, theory, and the systematic approach to leadership.
  • Day 2 (Field): Putting theory into practice on the trails! You’ll practice leading, decision-making, and managing real-world scenarios in a supportive, judgement-free environment.

  Who is this for?
  
  This course is perfect for any woman or marginalized gender (age 18 +) who has some hiking experience and a passion for sharing the outdoors with others. You should be comfortable hiking on trails with roots/rocks while carrying a day pack.

  Prerequisites: 18+ years old, some hiking experience, and completion of pre-course reading (manual provided).

  What’s Included:

  • National OCC Field Leader (Hiking) Certification (upon successful completion).
  • A one-year membership to the Outdoor Council of Canada.
  • The OCC Field Leader Student Manual (digital copy, you must print your own).
  • Instruction from two certified OCC Instructors, Ashley and Joanne, in a supportive community setting.

  Join us on March 28-29 and gain the confidence to lead the way!

  • Dates: March 28–29, 2026

  • Duration: 2 Days (approx. 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

  • Location: Exact location details will be provided via email closer to the course date. Further instructions, important information, and a course packing list will be emailed out to participants. Check your confirmation and reminder emails.
  • What to Bring: Standard day-hiking gear, lunch/snacks, and your "growth mindset"!
  • Please come prepared to participate fully, and hike a short distance during the course.

  
  

  Contact us with any questions or to learn more. We look forward to supporting your outdoor leadership!

  Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mail prior to an event.

  This event allows cancellation no less than 8 days before start of event. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our Cancellation Policy.

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• Full Moon Hike

  • When
    Wed, April 01, 2026
  •  
    7:15 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Stony Mountain, MB
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

  Regarding COVID-19: Please review our full COVID-19 policy and safety practices here. 

  PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, TWO DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (MARCH 30). 

  Immerse yourself in the magic of the night as we embark on a journey along the Stony Mountain Quarry Trail! Please note that due to the recent time change and longer days, we will start this event in the daylight. This gives us the unique opportunity to experience a beautiful sunset on the trail, hopefully catching the moonrise partway through or toward the end of our hike.

  This moon has been traditionally called the Sucker Moon (Anishinaabe/Ojibwe), Breaking Ice Moon (Algonquin), Pink Moon, Sprouting Grass Moon, Boiling Sap Moon, and many others by Indigenous peoples in Manitoba and other parts of North America. It is a time for renewal and honoring the earth as nature re-awakens.

  As we hike, we will pause periodically to gaze at the sunset, the landscape, and the Full Moon. This moon is associated with the coming of spring, renewal and the re-awakening of nature. This moon signals a time to honour the earth and plant seeds of intention for the upcoming season. 

  We encourage you to learn more about the specific teachings and stories of these communities.

  Our Full Moon Hikes require that everyone carry their own light source, whether a headlamp or flashlight (mandatory). 

  If you wish to carpool to this event, please see details under the carpools section below.

  Event Leader: Brittany Thiessen

  Arrival Time: By 7:15 PM. We will begin the hike no later than 7:30 pm. The time arranged allows for you to have time to attend to personal needs such as organizing your gear and for the leader to share information with the group. 

  
  

  Location: Stony Mountain Quarry Trail in Stony Mountain, Manitoba. Exact meeting location will be shared with registered participants. 

  
  

  In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the ancestral lands of the Ininiw, Anishinaabe, and Dakota Nations, and the homeland of the Metis Nation.  Our organization, Backcountry Women, is based on Treaty No. 1 Territory, and we appreciate that this event takes place on Treaty No 1. Territory.

  Overall Difficulty Rating: Due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 1/5.

  This rating is subject to change based on prevailing conditions at the time of the activity, including but not limited to weather.

  

  Activity Category: Full Moon Series (special series)
  Duration/Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours. The trail is around 2.5 km and we will do two loops. 
  Experience: All skill levels welcome. You should have the ability to walk with the group at a moderate, steady pace for the duration of the activity. Appropriate footwear and layered clothing is required.
  Terrain: The trail is gravel and is mostly flat but includes some gentle inclines and declines. It may be ice or snow covered at this time of year. Traction aids / hiking poles are recommended.

  Pace: This activity will be at a steady, moderate pace.
  
  Please leave dogs at home. 

  Carpools: If you are interested in carpooling to this event, please go to the dedicated Chat on Facebook for Backcountry Women Carpooling. NOTE: The Carpool Chat Guidelines are displayed as a Featured Post in the Backcountry Women - Community Forum Facebook group for your convenience, as well as a Pinned Post in the Chat. Please be sure you are familiar with the guidelines prior to use of this chat!
  

  Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mail prior to an event.
  

  Registering for this event secures you a spot and fees are non-refundable and no credits will be issued, unless under exceptional circumstances. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our Cancellation Policy.

  Immerse yourself in the magic of the night as we embark on a journey along the Stony Mountain Quarry Trail! This full moon hike offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.

  As we hike, we will pause periodically to gaze at the Full Moon. This moon is associated with the coming of spring, renewal and the re-awakening of nature. This moon signals a time to honour the earth and plant seeds of intention for the upcoming season. 

  This moon has been traditionally called the Sucker Moon (Anishinaabe/Ojibwe), Breaking Ice Moon (Algonquin), Pink Moon, Sprouting Grass Moon, Boiling Sap Moon, and many others by Indigenous peoples in Manitoba and other parts of North America. 

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• Skills Series 2026: The Series Kickoff (local tips, planning advice, solo confidence, and More!)

  • When
    Thu, April 16, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Wilderness Supply in Winnipeg
  • Spaces left
    18

  Register

  PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT (APRIL 15)

  Elevate your outdoor game! Join Backcountry Women with Wilderness Supply as we kick off Backcountry Women's Skills Series 2026, a multi-part series designed to explore outdoor skills and topics through hands-on learning, presentations, demos, and more. Whether you are a newbie, front-country enthusiast or a budding backpacker, these sessions provide the comprehensive knowledge to help you on your next adventure. 

  What to Expect:

  The Kickoff (Thursday, April 16th @6:00 PM): Meet Backcountry Women and amazing community members with an interactive kick off to this series, co-hosted by Wilderness Supply. We'll dive into discussions on gems of Manitoba to explore this coming season, lesser known camping opportunities, and discuss camping topics such as planning, building your confidence for solo camping, and camping gear Q+A. Participants will be eligible for prize draws at this kickoff event, so don't miss out!
  
  ** Note: Participants registered for our Skills Series will automatically be added to this kickoff event FREE!***

  Meet Your Facilitators:
  

  This workshop is led by Ashley Moore, the founder of Backcountry Women. Ashley brings over 15 years of experience in hiking and backpacking—a journey that has evolved into a passion for empowering others. She is an Outdoor Council of Canada (OCC) certified 4-Season Hiking Field Leader & Instructor, and holds additional OCC certifications in Paddling and Overnight leadership.

  Joining her is Joanne Keeping, a dedicated Backcountry Women leader and fellow OCC Instructor with a vast background of experience. Together, they provide a supportive space for connection, curiosity, and adventure, helping participants build the confidence to get outside safely and comfortably.

  Location: Wilderness Supply in Winnipeg. Specific details + important information will be sent out in reminder email(s) prior to the session. Please check your spam!

  Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM. Please arrive on time so we can begin promptly by 6:30. Please check your inbox and reminder email information!

  What to Bring to the Workshop

  To get the most out of this session, please have the following ready:

  • A Notebook and Pen: For jotting resources and tips.

  • A Snack / Beverage: Get comfy and stay energized!

  • Your Questions: We will have dedicated time for Q&A at the end of our sessions (as time permits).

  In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the ancestral lands of the Ininiw, Anishinaabe, and Dakota Nations, and the homeland of the Metis Nation.  Our organization, Backcountry Women, is based on Treaty No. 1 Territory, and we appreciate that this event takes place on Treaty No 1. Territory.

  Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mails prior to an event.

  This event is non refundable. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our Cancellation Policy.

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• Backpacking w/ Confidence Course Weekend

  • Start
    Fri, May 22, 2026
  •  
    4:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, May 24, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • Location
    TBA (within 100 kms of Winnipeg)
  • Spaces left
    11

  Registration is closed

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 2 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (May 20)

  PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

  Registration opens March 31! *CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR COURSE WAITLIST TO RECEIVE MORE INFO*

  Backpacking with Confidence Course Weekend: 
  Are you eager to experience the excitement of camping and multi-day backpacking, but unsure where to begin? Do you want to build essential skills, knowledge and self sufficiency to boost your confidence in a supportive and encouraging environment? Backcountry Women's Backpacking with Confidence Course is designed for you! This immersive weekend experience combines comprehensive course content with an overnight front-country camping experience, allowing for a deeper connection with the material and fellow participants.

  This weekend course, led by Backcountry Women's Founder Ashley Moore (an Outdoor Council of Canada certified Field Leader and Instructor) and certified members of our Advocate team, provides a comprehensive introduction to backcountry hiking and camping. Whether you're a novice or seeking to refine your existing skills, this course will empower you to embark on your backcountry adventures with confidence and safety.

  What You'll Learn:

  • Essential Backpacking Skills: We cover a wide range of topics, including camping, trip planning, goals and motivations, preparedness, safety, Leave No Trace principles, gear selection, and more. You'll gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in areas such as packing your backpack, basic map use, backcountry stoves, water purification, and sleep system setup.
  • Interactive Learning: Engage in discussions, share experiences, and learn tips and tricks from other like-minded women in the Backcountry Women community.
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of our experienced instructors, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and fostering a love for the outdoors in an empowering way.

  Course Highlights:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Our course comprehensively covers essential aspects of camping and backcountry backpacking, providing you with a solid foundation to build upon for future adventures.
  • Hands-On Activities: Gain practical experience through interactive activities and demonstrations, including setting up camp and using essential gear.
  • Supportive Community: Connect with other women who share your passion for the outdoors, and create connections to a supportive network.
  • Short Hike: Put your newly acquired skills into practice with a short hike, experiencing some backpacking skills, such as carrying a balanced pack firsthand.
  • Overnight Camping Experience: Immerse yourself with a front-country camping experience, learn outdoor skills and put them to the test, and have a fun overnight trip in a supportive environment.
  • Exclusive Resources: Receive a packing list, a Manitoba Backpacking trails resource, our printed Prairie Essentials Guidebook to Exploring to take home, and priority access to register for overnight "alumni" trips designed to further enhance your skills and level of experience. See Events page for upcoming Alumni trips.

  Course Details:

  • Friday (Overnight #1):

  • 5:00-6:00 PM: Arrival for camp welcome and set up

  • Camp Setup Session: Set up your tents and sleep systems - support and tips available. There will be an opportunity to try out gear you don't own - rental gear options, including tents and sleep systems available via Gear Library donation.

  • Evening Session: Recap of camp set up, challenges discussion, Leave No Trace tips, group fire, lawn games, and other activities.
    
    
  • Saturday (Overnight #2):
  • Morning Warm-up: Fun game/activity (e.g. outdoors bingo). Discussion/reflection.
  • Full-Day Course: Comprehensive coverage of essential backpacking skills (coverage will be flexibly adapted to the group needs). 
  • Evening: Fire building lesson/skill building exercise in the evening.
    
    

  • Sunday (Departure):

    • Relaxed Morning: Coffee/tea included
    • Share and discuss a dehydrated backcountry food sample.
    • Pack Up.
    • Reflections and Q&A.
    
    
  • Location: Exact location details will be provided via email closer to the course date. Further instructions, important information, and a course packing list will be emailed out to participants. Check your confirmation and reminder emails.
  • What to Bring: You don't need to own any top-of-the-line gear! Bring what you have, and we'll discuss various options and answer your questions. Our demonstrations and gear provided for you to check out in person can help you make informed decisions before investing in any gear! 
  • Please come prepared to participate fully, and hike a short distance during the course.
  • Provided: Our Prairie Essentials guidebook, expert instruction, follow up resources post-course, and a variety of equipment for demonstration and hands-on learning.

  
  Ready to embark on your backpacking and wilderness overnight journey with confidence? Register for our "Backpacking with Confidence" course today for an immersive, hands on experience to build your self sufficiency!

  Contact us with any questions or to learn more. We look forward to adventuring with you!

  Further details will be provided to registered participants. Participants are responsible for having a valid e-mail address, communicating with the event organizer regarding any changes in attendance, and for checking e-mail prior to an event.

  This event allows cancellation no less than 14 days before start of event. If you are no longer able to attend, please see our Cancellation Policy.

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