Backcountry Women upcoming events

Adventure Women Hike - Spruce Woods: Spruce, Juniper and Cedar loop (Sat, May 16, 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 14:00:00 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 (MAY 14).

Join us for a Backcountry Women Adventure Women hike on the Epinette trail system in Spruce Woods, exploring the Spruce, Juniper and Cedar loops. The trail follows through a mixture of rolling hills in open grasslands and wooded sections with beautiful views of Epinette Creek along the way.

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: Arrive by 9:00 AM. We will begin the hike no later than **9:30 AM**. The time arranged allows for you to attend to personal needs such as organizing your gear and for leaders to share important information with the group.

Important: Our return time is flexible to accommodate group needs and safety. We move at the pace of the group! Please avoid making firm plans for shortly after the hike so we can enjoy the trail and a shared experience without the pressure of the clock.

Location: Epinette Trail. Exact meeting location will be shared with registered participants. A valid Manitoba Parks pass is required and can be purchased online.

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 1 Territory.

Overall Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned below, this activity is rated a 3.5/5. This rating is subject to change based on prevailing conditions at the time of the activity, including but not limited to weather.

Activity Category: Adventure Women hike - click for more info.
Duration/Distance: Approximately 9.5 KM.
Experience: This event is open to participants with moderate level of fitness who have some hiking experience. You must have the ability to walk with the group at a moderate pace for the duration of the activity and come to the activity with appropriate footwear, gear and outerwear.

Terrain: Gentle rolling hills through open grasslands and wooded sections, some short and steep uphill sections on the Cedar Loop. Trail is grassy and/or sandy.

Pace: Moderate with a break for lunch on the Cedar Loop overlooking the Epinette Creek and additional stops for water as needed.

Please keep 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.

Backpacking w/ Confidence Course Weekend (Fri, May 22, 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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!

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.

Adventure Women Hike - Telford Pond to Ross Lake (Sat, June 20, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 14:30:00 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 (JUNE 18)

Join us for a Backcountry Women Adventure Women hike on the Telford Pond/Ross Lake section of the Centennial Trail in Whiteshell Provincial Park. This is a beautiful section of the trail with plenty of ups and downs, and views of Ross Lake.
If you wish to carpool to this event, please see details under the carpools section below.

Event Leaders: Maggie Wen Click for more information!

Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30am. We will begin the hike no later than 10:00 AM. The time arranged allows for you to attend to personal needs such as organizing your gear and for leaders to share important information with the group.

Location: Telford Pond/Ross Lake in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Exact meeting location will be shared with registered participants. A valid Manitoba Parks pass is required and can be purchased online.

For more details, see the All Trails page:

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/manitoba/telford-pond-and-ross-lake

Activity Category: Adventure Women hike - click for more info.
Duration/Distance: Approximately 9-9.5km
Experience: This event is open to participants with a good level of fitness who have some hiking experience. You must have the ability to walk with the group at a moderate pace for the duration of the activity and come to the activity with appropriate footwear, gear and outerwear. Hiking boots/Trail shoes are mandatory. Poles are recommended.

Terrain: A lot of elevation, many up and down sections, some steeper sections. Trail is a mix of rock and dirt trails. Due to the season, trail conditions may be wet, muddy, and slippery.

Pace: Moderate with a break for a lunch and additional stops for water as needed.

Please keep dogs at home.

Carpools: If you are interested in carpooling to this event go to the Backcountry Women - Community Forum group on Facebook. Select Chats near the top of the page (from a mobile device) or in a box on the right of the page (from a computer) and select the BCW Event Carpools chat. The Carpool Chat Guidelines are displayed as a Featured Post in the group for your convenience. Please be sure you are familiar with the guidelines prior to use of this chat!

Backcountry Women Overnight - Backpacking Course Alumni Trip (Fri, June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 10 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (June 16).

PRE-TRIP MEETING (MANDATORY): WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 @ 6:30 PM

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

Registration opens April 4! *We will provide a registration code to all those who register for our Backpacking Course in 2026! Check your registration confirmation email. If you didn't get the code and need it to register, please get in touch. Past years' course participants are welcome too!*

Have you taken one of our Backpacking with Confidence courses? Then we invite you to join us as we head overnight into the backcountry for a shared experience, confidence building, and a continuation of hands on backpacking knowledge.

This event will be an overnight Backpacking trip in Spruce Woods Provincial Park.

This trip will include a MANDATORY pre trip meeting on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 @ 6:30 PM.

During this overnight trip we'll build up some of the skills taught in the Backpacking with Confidence course and provide more opportunities hands on with gear, all in a similar supportive environment. We want to make this trip accessible to as many as possible and have gear lending library options to make this trip possible. (We ask for a small donation to our library in exchange for gear rentals if you have the means to donate).

There are a limited number of spaces available in this event. Please keep in mind you MUST be available for the pre trip meeting to be able to attend. We are giving Backpacking course participants priority access to this trip using a special registration code provided once you've done the course (past participants can expect an email with this info - if you didn't receive it, please reach out). Those wanting to register will then be given a spot on a first come, first serve basis.

This trip will proceed rain or shine; plans will be adjusted accordingly in the case of bad weather. We have access to outdoor shelters during this event. Full details will be provided to registered attendees.

Event leaders: Ashley Moore. Please contact with any questions!

To ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all, any equipment you bring should have been tested previously to withstand poor weather conditions such as wind and rain.

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!) Gear and other details will be reviewed and coordinated together during our pre-trip meeting.

Please note that this event's registration fees do not include gas, park entry/passes, meals, other misc / personal expenses.

MANDATORY Pre-Trip Meeting: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 @ 6:30 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 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.

Failure to do so may forfeit your registered spot and there will be no credit or refund available to you.

Please leave dogs at home.

What to expect:

You should have enough fitness and physical ability to be able to comfortably join an extended hike where we may be facing a variety of conditions and varied terrain for extended distances, while also carrying the weight of overnight packs. If you have never carried the weight of a pack we strongly recommend trying it out before hand and doing some training that strengthens your lower body, as well as cardio abilities. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY FORFEIT YOUR SPOT. This is for safety reasons and success of the trip.
Day 1: We will meet at the trailhead in the afternoon and spend approx. 45-60 mins preparing to head out by packing and adjusting our bags. There will be small breaks for adjustments as we go. When we arrive at "cabin 2" along the trail (which is roughly 2 kms in) we'll set up camp and enjoy the evening. Setting up camp will be assisted as needed and we'll have an overview of the backcountry camping process, such as: choosing tent sites and setting them up, setting up a kitchen area, collecting/chopping firewood.
Day 2: We'll have breakfast, and then pack up our camp. We will hike out to cabin 3 (roughly a 6 km hike) to set up camp, enjoy some relaxation, and spend the day / evening.
Day 3: We'll pack up camp after breakfast, then begin the hike back out (~8 kms). We will take a lunch break at cabin 2. Once back at the parking lot, we will unpack any shared gear to return it to its owner.
Epinette trail leads through some open grasslands with a mix of forested sections. There are some great views and lots of rolling hills along the way! This trail is quite exposed to the elements so ample sun protection and water is required.

Overall Average Difficulty Rating: due to the factors mentioned above, this activity is rated a 3.5/5.

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

This event allows cancellation no less than 10 days before start of event (cancellations must be received in advance of our pre-trip meeting). 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.

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.