PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT (Feb 10)

Don’t let the cold keep you inside! There is no reason to hibernate during the winter months. While exploring nature offers incredible benefits for your physical and mental health, winter hiking requires a unique set of skills to stay safe and comfortable.

In this interactive online workshop, we focus on reducing risks through preparation. Whether you are a beginner looking to build a foundation or a seasoned hiker wanting to refine your gear, this session will empower you with the knowledge to enjoy the trails all season long.

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.

What You Will Learn:
Through a mix of presentation, gear demonstrations, and interactive discussion, we will cover the following topics:

• Starting Small & Building Confidence: Learn the benefits of beginning with shorter, local trails to understand your body’s limits before tackling "bucket list" adventures
• Effective Trip Planning: How to research trail conditions, identify seasonal trail use (like avoiding groomed ski-only trails), and locate essential resources like fire pits or shelters.
• Emergency Preparation: Why you should always have an emergency plan and ensure a trusted contact knows your expected return time.
• The Art of Layering: Choosing the right materials and mastering the base, mid, and outer "shell" layers to regulate heat and avoid sweating. 
• Winter Footwear and Socks: Tips for selecting footwear that keeps feet warm and protected in changing temperatures.
• The 10 Essentials: A deep dive into the supplies you must pack to survive an unexpected overnight stay, including navigation, insulation, illumination, and first aid.
• Winter Nutrition and Hydration: Strategies for carrying extra food and preventing your water from freezing in sub-zero temperatures.
• Environmental Stewardship: An introduction to the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace to help preserve natural spaces.

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

Time: Please log in at 5:55pm (or sooner!) so we can begin promptly.

We’ve designed this online workshop experience to be as engaging as possible through:

• Breakout Rooms: Connect with like-minded individuals in smaller groups to discuss specific winter hiking scenarios and other topics.

• Gear Show & Tell: Participants are encouraged to bring one "Winter Gear Favorite" to the screen to share why it's a staple in their pack!

• Live Q&A: Get your specific questions answered by our certified instructors.

What to Bring to the Online Workshop

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

• A "Gear Favorite": Choose one piece of winter gear you love (e.g., a specific pair of socks, a thermos, or a headlamp) to share with the group.

• A Notebook and Pen: For jotting down trail resources and planning tips.

• A blank sheet of paper and some coloring pencils / markers (whatever you have).

• A Warm Beverage: Get into the winter spirit with a tea or cocoa!

• Your Questions: We will have dedicated time for Q&A at the end.

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.