Backcountry Women upcoming events

Happy Trails Hike (Tue, July 07, 2026)

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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 (JULY 5).

Our Happy Trails Hikes invite you to discover the joy of outdoor adventure with Backcountry Women! These events located in the Winnipeg area offer a weekday escape into nature - perfect for recharging, bringing together women from all walks of life to explore our local trails, and connecting with a like-minded community. No matter your experience level, you're welcome to join us. If you wish to carpool to this event, please see details under the carpools section below.

Event leaders: Brittany Thiessen Click for more information

Arrival Time: by 6:00 PM. We will begin the hike no later than 6:15 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: Bunn's Creek. 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: Happy Trails
Duration/Distance: Approximately 2 hours and 6KM.
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: Gravel. Trail is generally level.

Pace: This activity will be at a steady, moderate pace.

Please leave your dog(s) 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.

Kenora Summer Collective: Women's Adventure Weekend (Sat, July 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

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, 2 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (July 16)

Escape to the stunning Lake of the Woods region for a fun and collaborative Women's Adventure Weekend in Kenora, Ontario! Mosswood Adventures and Rentals and Backcountry Women are thrilled to team up again to bring you a fantastic opportunity to connect with awesome like-minded women and soak in this beautiful area on July 18th + 19th, 2026.

Imagine starting your adventure on Friday, July 17th (optional arrival) with a relaxed visit to the new Lake of the Woods Brew Co. Brewers Village for a tasty meal and refreshing drinks followed by a post-dinner walk to check out scenic Rabbit Lake.

Saturday morning brings a chance to spend some time unwinding from the busyness of life with a 10:00 am dockside Yoga session with Lakeside Yoga Collective. Afterwards, we'll gather for a group lunch in Kenora with extra time to explore local shops, sights, and bites, then head downtown for a private Douglas Family Art Centre tour. The evening offers opportunities for connection and fun with an optional visit to the Riverside Retreat for some waterfront fire time, accompanied by s'mores; possibly even a chill sunset paddle.

Sunday offers a fun lakeside experience! We'll be heading out on the water via a shuttle across the lake to Coney Island where we'll immerse ourselves in the joy of adventure and connection. Cue the yard games, sandcastle building, swimming or paddling (rentals available), snack shack visits and more.

After lunch, we'll share a hike to Blueberry Hill. Explore nature, local birds, flora and fauna with a Nature Bingo activity (optional: BYO binoculars!). We'll have prizes!

This two-day event offers flexible overnight options, including camping, so you can choose what suits you best. We also have some gear lending options available for participants via gear library donation who might need a tent and sleeping gear. Reach out to Ashley to inquire about gear options!

Event Leader: Ashley Moore with Victoria (Vic) Moss from Mosswood Adventures & Rentals.
Arrival Time: Please see more details below for the timeline and overnight accommodation options. Please reach out with any questions.

Optional expenses not included in registration:

Water Rentals
Personal purchases / meals / drinks
Accommodations in Kenora

Expenses included in registration:

Facilitated outdoor experience with two Outdoor Council of Canada certified Field Leaders, which includes a local guide
Douglas Family Art Centre tour - including summer exhibitions like Patterns & Parallels: The Great Imperative to Survive with Dr. Roberta Bondar
Yoga on the dock (please BYO mat / beach towel; we have a few extra mats)
Shuttle service to Coney Island
Guided group hike
Group bonfire with lawn games
Bingo activity supplies as applicable
Various snacks *TBA
Swag bags and prizes!

Kenora Accommodation Options to check out:

We have a campsite at Rushing River being held by reservation for those who would like to camp. This spot will be up for grabs on a first come, served basis and requires a $50 fee to secure your spot (2 nights). Two tents can occupy the spot. Please reach out at ashley.backcountrywomen@gmail.com if you wish to reserve a spot here.
Overnight Options: Choose from a 1-night or 2-night stay for maximum flexibility. PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR SUGGESTIONS ON ACCOMMODATIONS TO BOOK FOR THIS WEEKEND. Regarding accommodations that could be shared such as cabins, if you would like to share with another participant please reach out at ashley.backcountrywomen@gmail.com - be sure to indicate if you are staying Fri + Saturday, or Saturday only. We will share contacts among participants to coordinate so you can book together.
Wildwoods Hideaway (woman-owned) Prospector Tents, Tiny Cabins. Accommodates 4-5 people. Rates starting at $113-$123/night. Minimum length of stay required - specific check in and check out dates.
Edge Water Beach Camp (woman-owned) Adults Only 18+ Glamping. 2-night minimum stay. Rooms accommodate 1-4 people. Rates starting at $129-219/night.
Nature’s Inn (family-owned) Standard Rooms, Mini Suites, Deluxe Suites. Rooms accommodate 1-4 people. Rates starting at $129-$239/night.
Kenora Bed n’ Bale (woman-owned). Glamping Bunkies, Prospector Tents. No running water. Outhouse facilities. Accommodates 2-8 people. Rates starting at $179-199/night.
Clarion Inn Lakeside and Conference Centre Luxury Rooms. Lake of the Woods/City views available. Rooms accommodate 2-4 people. Rates starting at $399-$419/night.
Additional options: Places To Stay | Stay in Kenora

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

Overall Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 2/5. This rating is subject to change based on prevailing conditions at the time of the activity, including but not limited to weather.

MORE DETAILS: Here's what adventures awaits you throughout this weekend (Note - these offerings are based on available time frame; subject to change based on conditions, leader discretion, etc.):

Friday, July 17th (Optional Arrival):

Evening (6:30-8:30 pm): Welcome arrivals and a fun community visit to Lake of the Woods Brew Co. Brewers Village (dinner and drinks), followed by a walk on local trails to Rabbit Lake.

Saturday, July 19th:

9:45 am arrival: our morning begins with a 10:00 am dockside Yoga session with Lakeside Yoga Collective. (Redden's Campground)
11:30 am - 1:30 pm Post yoga, explore the local eateries in Kenora with a scheduled group lunch.
1:30 - 3:00 pm Free time to explore. We have loads of recommendations for swim spots, harbourfront strolls, hiking trails, cafes and more.
3:00 - 4:00 pm we’ll have our private tour of the Douglas Family Art Center.
4:00 - 7:00 pm Participants are welcome to enjoy free time on their own to explore Kenora and enjoy local restaurants with plenty of recommendations!
7:00 pm Evening Activity: meet at a local private camp for a bonfire, sweet treats and evening river paddles

Sunday, July 20th:

10:00 am our morning begins, meeting at Harbourfront to await our boat to shuttle us to Coney Island.
At Coney Island we’ll:
- Have free time on the beach, with beach / yard games, sandcastle building, swimming, snack shack and more.
- Optional: choose paddle fun on Lake of the Woods. Paddling experience required! Rentals will be available. All safety equipment must be used and shown to the event facilitators prior to getting on the water.
- 12:00 - 1:00 pm Bring your own lunch to the beach or visit the Snack Shack. - we’ll break for brunch-time here.
- 1:00 pm Explore Coney and hike to Blueberry Hill. During our hike, explore nature and local birds with Nature Bingo - BYO binoculars! You can optionally form teams :)
- 3:00 pm (approximately): We’ll shuttle back to wrap up and send you on your way - thank you for joining us for a weekend of nature and adventure!

NOTE: WE SUGGEST YOU SECURE YOUR OVERNIGHT STAY SOON AFTER YOUR EVENT REGISTRATION.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and other women who love the outdoors!

Please keep dogs at home.

Carpools: If you are interested in carpooling to this event, contact Ashley.

*Please avoid registering until you can commit - canceled registrations are subject to incurring admin fees at your expense* 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.

Backpacking Overnight in Riding Mountain National Park (Sat, July 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 7 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (July 18th).

PRE-TRIP MEETING (MANDATORY): Tuesday, July 21st at 7:00 pm.

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION:

Member registration opens May 28!

Get ready for a short and relaxed backpacking trip in Riding Mountain National Park! Enjoy this beautiful hike (2.4km, less than 1 hour) into one of the Backcountry sites and tent under the stars. After camp is set-up, enjoy a longer hike then spend the afternoon dipping our feet in the creek, making a fire, and enjoying the company of a like-minded community. This is a great opportunity to test your backpacking skills learned in a previous Backcountry Women course, or from similar adventures.

Participants will need to bring appropriate gear that can be carried in by backpack including a tent, sleeping bag, food and water, flashlights, cooking equipment, layered clothing, appropriate gear for activities, and other items. Note that tents may be shared in order to conserve limited campsite space. A suggested gear and packing list will be provided upon registering so that you can adequately prepare for this weekend. (Please check the details in your registration confirmation email!)

This trip will proceed rain or shine!

Event leaders: Ainsley Balcewich. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out prior to registering!

Costs not included in registration fees: gas, park entry fees, meals, other misc./ personal expenses, additional group-planned activities or equipment/gear rentals.

MANDATORY Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday, July 21st at 7:00 pm. An email will be sent to participants 1 week prior to our meeting with further details.

IMPORTANT NOTE - These trips are a true team effort and are offered to individuals who are team players. You MUST attend the mandatory pre trip meeting with no exceptions. This is required since it is where leaders and participants come together to finalize all plans and details to make this trip possible. Everyone's participation makes these trips a success! Please review the pre trip meeting date to ensure you can attend prior to registering.

If you do not end up attending this pre trip meeting, you may forfeit your registered spot and there will be no credit or refund available to you.

What to expect:

Group hike into the Backcountry site
Additional hike from camp
Evening fire and social activities
Optional group activities to be decided at pre-trip meeting
You should have enough experience and fitness to be able to carry your gear, including all food and water needed for the weekend while hiking at a moderate pace.
This event is not pet friendly.

Overall Average Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned above, this activity is rated a 3/5.

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

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.

Northern Manitoba Adventure (September Long Weekend) (Fri, September 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 16 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (August 19).

PRE-TRIP MEETING (MANDATORY): Monday, Aug. 24 at 6:00 pm.

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION:

*IMPORTANT NOTE: To complete your registration and secure your spot in this event, we require a non-refundable deposit of $50 via e-transfer to ashley.backcountrywomen@gmail.com. This deposit is in addition to the registration price. Please send the deposit prior to registration to confirm your attendance, and then complete your registration once ready.

Subsidies may be available to an individual with financial barriers preventing access this trip. Contact Us for details.

Ready for a unique adventure? Get ready for an extraordinary long weekend exploring some of the unparalleled natural wonders of Northern Manitoba! After the success of our inaugural trip, we are headed back to the North to uncover more gems, including a new stop at Bakers Narrows.

We’ll start our journey by setting up camp at picturesque, walk-in waterfront sites at Wekusko Falls. Good news for those who love comfort—these sites are conveniently located near a parking area, so no long treks with gear! For the second half of our trip, we’ll migrate further north to the beautiful Bakers Narrows to experience the rugged beauty of the Flin Flon and Clearwater Lakes area.

Join Backcountry Women for a weekend of starlit nights, stunning waterfalls, beautiful beaches, intriguing caves, and community. Enjoy optional hikes, bonfires, crafts, and games.

Event leaders: Ashley Moore and Ainsley Balcewich. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out prior to registering!

Additional Details - What to Expect / What We Expect from Participants:

Carpooling coordination to share driving + gas costs
Supportive leaders to help build your confidence
Group hikes + optional activities
Evening fire and social activities
Optional crafts and lawn games
Optional swimming and other water-based activities (weather / conditions dependent)
Everyone's participation makes these trips a success - it's a team effort. Participants must commit to approaching this trip with a spirit of adventure and a 'go-with-the-flow' attitude, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the group over specific itinerary or personal goals.
This trip involves a lot of together time—from long carpools on Highway 6 to sharing campsites and cooking areas. While we foster a social and empowering environment, we also recognize the importance of personal boundaries and rest. We will establish group 'quiet hours' and communication preferences during our pre-trip meeting.
You should have experience with hiking at a moderate pace and have some prior camping experience. Reach out with any questions / concerns!
This event is not pet friendly.

The Itinerary*

NOTE: *Subject to change based on conditions, wildfire / natural impacts, trip leader discretion, group dynamic and safety, and time available:

Day 1: Friday, Sept 4 – The Journey North

Morning: Depart Winnipeg in carpool groups (approx. 7:30 – 8:00 am).
Lunch: A planned group stop at Pelican Landing to refuel and eat.
Little Limestone Lake: Witness the dramatic color of the world’s largest marl lake. We’ve carved out time here for a swim and a wardrobe change!
Evening: Arrive at Wekusko Falls to set up camp, followed by dinner and a bonfire.

Day 2: Saturday, Sept 5 – Wekusko Wonders

Morning: A "chill" morning at the campground.
Afternoon Hike: A group trek on the Wekusko Falls Trail to witness the Grass River carving through ancient rock. Cross two bridges for exceptional vantage points!
Activities: Lawn games, crafting (rock painting or pressed flower bookmarks), beach time, or visiting the Wekusko Lodge general store.
Special Opportunities (at Trip Leaders' Discretion):
Yoga: Ashley will lead a session as part of her 200-hour RYT training.
Fire Skills: Test your skills by helping start the evening bonfire with trip participants!
Optional Sidequest: Arrange a boat tour to the Tramping Lake Native Petroglyphs (Self-organized by participants; see Wekusko Falls Lodge for details).

Day 3: Sunday, Sept 6 – Into the Caves & Beyond

Morning: Pack up camp and head toward The Caves Self-Guiding Trail. We’ll spend time exploring the deep crevices and dolomite cliffs.
Afternoon: Drive to Bakers Narrows to set up our new basecamp.
Evening View: Climb the famous viewing tower at the campground for a 360-degree view of the lake and boreal forest.
Evening: Dinner and relaxation. Optional kayak/canoe rentals may be available via the lodge for those wanting more time on the water. It is mandatory that participants partaking in paddling activities have previous experience.

Day 4: Monday, Sept 7 – The Road Home

Morning: Enjoy a final northern breakfast before we begin the trek back to Winnipeg, with a planned lunch stop in The Pas.

Important Details -

Gear & Preparation:

Participants will need to bring appropriate camping gear including a tent, sleeping bag, food and water, flashlights, cooking equipment, layered clothing, appropriate gear for activities, and other items. A suggested gear and packing list will be provided upon registering so that you can adequately prepare for this weekend. (Please check the details in your registration confirmation email!) Limited gear is available through our Gear Lending Library via a gear library donation—including quality rain shells, as this trip proceeds rain or shine!

Safety & LNT:

In accordance with Leave No Trace principles and wildlife safety, all food, drink, and scented items must be kept in vehicles. No scented items are permitted inside tents.

Costs not included in registration fees: non-refundable deposit, optional equipment rentals (incl. kayaks/SUPs), gas/carpool contributions, park entry fees, additional group-planned activities, shared cost of firewood, meals, other misc. / personal expenses.

MANDATORY Pre-Trip Meeting: Monday, Aug. 24 at 6:00 pm. An email will be sent to participants 1 week prior to our meeting with further details.

Important Note: This meeting is mandatory. It is where we finalize carpool groups, gear sharing, safety plans and more. Failure to attend may result in the forfeiture of your spot without a refund.

Are you ready to head North? Register now to secure your spot in the wild!

Overall Average Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned above, this activity is rated a 3/5.

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

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.

The Wild Within: Lakeside Outdoor Immersion Retreat (Fri, October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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, 7 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (SEPT 25)

Escape to the stunning Lake of the Woods region for a fun and unique retreat weekend. Tonya Beveridge Women's Wellness and Backcountry Women are thrilled to team up for our second annual partnership, bringing you a beautiful opportunity to unplug, build skills, and soak in the quiet solitude of the fall season along Lake of the Woods.

The Weekend Lineup:

Friday, October 2: Arrive in the early evening for a warm welcome activity and intention setting, followed by a lakeside evening sauna or bonfire gathering to help you ease into a restful night.
Saturday, October 3: Begin the morning with gentle yoga catering to all abilities, opening the door to alignment with our bodies, hearts, and minds. As the weekend unfolds, dive into a variety of activities designed to help you unwind and enjoy the company of fellow participants in a remote, totally private lakefront wilderness space. There will also be optional sessions to learn about outdoor topics available at designated times during this day based on interest (may include: fire building, camp meal planning, etc.).
Sunday, October 4: Enjoy a relaxed morning and continued options from the previous day. We will bring everyone together for a closing circle, offering a space for reflection on our shared and unique experiences before heading home.

Flexible Offerings: Throughout the weekend, you have the freedom to choose as many or as few activities as you’d like! We will offer flexible options based on group desires, conditions, and time available. Spend your time nature journaling with guided prompts, trying nature-inspired crafts, or relaxing in a hammock on the property with a good book. Weather permitting, we will also provide paddling opportunities, basic skills like beach fire building, and plenty of sauna and swimming time on our private sand beach.

NOTE: We also have some gear renting options available for participants who might need some camping gear! Reach out to Ashley to inquire about gear options.

Event Leaders: Ashley Moore, Tonya Beveridge
Arrival Time: The suggested arrival time is 5:00 pm - please reach out regarding options if this arrival will not work for you.

NOTE: To complete your registration and secure your spot in this event, we require a non-refundable deposit of $75 via e-transfer to ashley.backcountrywomen@gmail.com. This deposit is in addition to the registration price. Please send the deposit prior to registration to confirm your attendance, and then complete your registration once ready.

Optional expenses not included in registration:

Gas costs (we will encourage carpooling and sharing gas costs with the driver)
Personal meals / drinks (a soup will be provided Friday evening upon arrival, and we will be providing participants with a coffee / tea station each morning)
Water equipment rentals

Expenses included in registration:

Lakefront cabin accommodations and amenities (two cabins available for retreat guests: Cabin #1 with washroom and running water, Cabin #2 off grid with outhouse, no running water, woodstove); plus a Large Bell Tent (space for 4, BYO sleeping equipment or borrow from BCW gear lending library). Spaces will be assigned on a first come first served basis. If a participant is uncomfortable with an assignment in the bell tent accommodations, we will do our best to accommodate alternate arrangements.
Amenity essentials such as wood, dish soap, biodegradable washing soap, towels, TP
Kitchen facilities / fridge / bbq space
Gear lending library camping items (sleeping equipment, etc), first come first served
Water equipment to use: 2 paddle boards, 3 kayaks, 1 canoe (weather permitting) with safety equipment. Available throughout the weekend, first come first served. Experienced paddlers will be welcomed to bring their own.
A lakeside wood fired sauna with essential oils and optional cold plunging
Morning coffee / tea station
Facilitated yoga session(s) with certified instructors
Optional Sessions (TBA) which may include fire starting skills on the beach, crafting, nature journaling / journaling reflections, etc. (NOTE: offerings will be subject to change to suit our weekend retreat based on interest, conditions, available time etc.)
Free time and a chance to recharge and soak in the beauty of nature and the fall colors.
Shared evening fires and yard games
Beach games
Hammocks to enjoy
... And more!
If you wish to carpool to this event, please see details under the carpools section below.

Overall Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 2/5. This rating is subject to change based on prevailing conditions at the time of the activity, including but not limited to weather.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and other women who love the outdoors!

Carpools: Please indicate carpooling preferences during your registration questions.

*Please avoid registering until you can commit. 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.