Backcountry Women

Happy Trails Hike

When
Wed, June 11, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Churchill Drive Park
Spaces left
11

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 (JUNE 9)

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.

This trail will follow along the Red River. There will be an optional stop at the Bridge Drive-In, if participants wish to get a cold treat, which is at our turn-around point halfway along the trail before we head back to where we began.

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: Churchill Drive Park. 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 5 KM.
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 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!

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.

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Backpacking w/ Confidence Course NEW Overnight Weekend Edition

Start
Fri, June 13, 2025
5:00 PM
End
Sun, June 15, 2025
1:00 PM
Location
TBA (within 100 kms of Winnipeg)
Spaces left
9

Register

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 5 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (June 8)

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

Registration opens April 4! *CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR COURSE WAITLIST TO RECEIVE MORE INFO*

*NEW* Overnight Weekend Edition - Backpacking with Confidence Course
Are you eager to experience the excitement of 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 NEW immersive weekend experience combines our 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 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 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 in the learning process with a front-country camping experience, putting your skills 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 (details of topics covered will be similar to the one-day Backpacking with Confidence course we offer).
Evening: Fire building lesson/skill building exercise in the evening.
NOTE: Participants can leave later in the evening or earlier the next morning if needed (e.g., due to Father's Day).
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.

Note:

While there may be some overlapping topics with our Hiking with Confidence course, we recommend choosing the course that best aligns with your current experience level and interests. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Ready to embark on your backpacking journey with confidence? Register for our "Backpacking with Confidence" course today!

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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Happy Trails Hike

When
Mon, June 16, 2025
6:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Location
Henteleff Park
Spaces left
11

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 (JUNE 14)

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: Michelle Ip - click for more information

Arrival Time: by 6:15 PM. We will begin the hike no later than 6:30 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: Henteleff Park. 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 1.5 hours and 5KM.
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 and dirt. Trail is generally level.

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

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!

Please leave your dog(s) at home.

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.

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Pride Hike

When
Wed, June 25, 2025
6:15 PM - 9:00 PM
Location
Birds Hill Provincial Park
Spaces left
28

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, ONE DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (JUNE 24)

Join us for our 2025 Pride Hike, made possible through Pride Winnipeg's Resurgence Fund! This event welcomes all individuals from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community (ages 16+) and allies to join Backcountry Women for a fun time to connect in nature while celebrating Pride 2025's theme of Rising in Pride and Standing in Strength. Everyone belongs OUTside, just as they are!

Come out wearing your Pride accessories! (Be mindful of wearing comfortable attire for spending the evening outdoors doing a hike).

Thanks to the funding received this is a FREE event and includes a fire (pending fire ban lifts) and light refreshments*! (*Currently pending fund approval.)

Event Leaders: Tannys Moffatt (she/her) and Ashley Moore (she/her) from Backcountry Women.

Arrival Time: by 6:15. We will begin the hike no later than 6:45PM. 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: in Birds Hill Provincial Park - the specific location will be provided via our event reminder email to 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.

Duration/Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours of hiking plus an hour after for snacks and a bonfire.
Experience: All skill levels welcome. You should have the ability to stay with the group at a moderate, steady pace for the duration of the activity. Appropriate footwear and layered clothing is required.
Terrain: The trail may include grass or dirt / pavement surfaces.

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

Please leave dogs at home.

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.

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Backcountry Women Overnight - Backpacking Course Alumni Trip

Start
Sat, June 28, 2025
8:00 AM
End
Sun, June 29, 2025
6:00 PM
Location
Spruce Woods Provincial Park
Spaces left
8

Register

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 8 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (June 20).

PRE-TRIP MEETING (MANDATORY): TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025 @ 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 2025! 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. THE TRIP ON THESE JUNE 28-29 DATES IS A SHORTER DISTANCE BACKPACKING TRIP OPTION - GREAT FOR THOSE WANTING A LOWER INTENSITY BACKPACKING TRIP.

This trip will include a MANDATORY pre trip meeting on TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025 @ 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: TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025 @ 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 morning 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 lunch. 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.

After lunch, we will optionally hike the Cedar Loop as a day hike - no heavy backpacks required. This section of the Epinette trail is particularly scenic!
Day 2: We'll have breakfast, and then pack up our camp. There will be adjustment and snack breaks as we head back to the parking lot. 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.

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.

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.

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Backcountry Women Overnight - Backpacking Course Alumni Trip

Start
Sun, June 29, 2025
8:00 AM
End
Mon, June 30, 2025
6:00 PM
Location
Spruce Woods Provincial Park
Spaces left
7

Register

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, 9 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT (June 20).

PRE-TRIP MEETING (MANDATORY): TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025 @ 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 2025! 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. THE TRIP ON THESE JUNE 29-30 DATES IS A LONGER DISTANCE BACKPACKING TRIP OPTION - GREAT FOR THOSE WANTING A MEDIUM INTENSITY BACKPACKING TRIP AND A MORE REALISTIC BACKPACKING EXPERIENCE.