Backcountry Women upcoming events

Adventure Women Hike - Spirit Sands and Devil's Punch Bowl (Sat, April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:00:00 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 (APR 23)

Join us for a Backcountry Women Adventure Women hike at Spirit Sands/Devil's Punch Bowl in Spruce Woods Provincial Park. This is a very unique trail with the largest sand dunes in Manitoba!
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 10:00am. We will begin the hike no later than 10:30 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.

Location: Spirit Sands and Devil's Punch Bowl loop in Spruce Woods 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/devils-punch-bowl-trail

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 2 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 10.3km.
Experience: This event is open to participants with a strong 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: Moderately difficult terrain due to the sand dunes and elevation, which can make certain parts of the trail extra challenging. Weather conditions are variable this time of the year, sand dunes may feel colder compared to the rest of the park.

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!

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.

Skills Series 2026: Backcountry Skills & Beyond (Wed, April 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 22:30:00 GMT

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT DATE.

Get Ready To Build Skills and Get Bushcrafty!

Elevate your outdoor game! Join us for a multi-part series designed to explore outdoor skills and topics through hands-on learning, demos, and more. This skills series isn’t just a presentation—you’ll be checking out gear, tying knots, and building your very own backcountry kits to take home. Whether you are a newbie, front-country enthusiast or a budding backpacker, these sessions provide the tactile skills you need for your next adventure.

What to Expect:

The Kickoff (Thursday, April 16th @6:00 PM): Meet your fellow skills series participants 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 this event is on this page, as we will have it open to the general public, as well as our Skill Series participants. Participants registered for our Skills Series will automatically be added to the kickoff event FREE!***

(Wednesday, April 22 @5:30 PM) The Outdoor Kitchen: Demystify the world of camp stoves. We’ll compare and demo butane, propane, and isobutane systems, and dive into kitchen organization. Learn how to plan easy, delicious front-country meals and stay for a gear Q&A to solve your specific "what should I buy?" dilemmas.

(Wednesday, April 29 @5:30 PM) Fire & Survival: Master the fundamentals of fire building. Every participant will receive their own flint to keep and will spend the evening assembling a custom mini fire-starter and survival kit.

(Wednesday, May 6 @5:30 PM) The Art of the Knot: A hands-on session focusing on the essential knots every outdoor traveler should know. You’ll practice the hitches, loops and bends that keep your gear and equipment secure (kayaks, tents, tarps, etc.) and take home a practice kit to keep your muscle memory sharp.

(Wednesday, May 13 @5:30 PM) The Paracord Workshop: Get crafty with one of the most versatile survival items for the woods - paracord. We’ll guide you through making useful paracord items for your pack, and you’ll leave with a DIY kit to finish a second project at home.

Whether you are an absolute beginner looking to build a foundation and explore some fun outdoor focused topics, or a seasoned hiker wanting to refine your knowledge, our Skills Series will dive into practical, exciting topics to expand your capabilities and comfort while exploring a variety of outdoor experiences. A confidence builder for all levels!

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's Included:
To help hone your skills so you are ready for future outdoor adventures, this workshop includes some useful takeaways such as:

Printed resources - gear lists and recommendations, meal planning worksheets and recipe resources, practice rope for knots, a flint to take home for firestarting practice, a paracord creation, and more!

Location: Winnipeg; varying locations. Specific details + important information will be sent out in reminder email(s) prior to each session. Please check your spam!

Time: Please arrive on time so we can begin promptly. Times may vary; please check your inbox and reminder email information!

If you cannot attend all of the sessions, please see the options during registration for registering for a single session, or reach out.

What to Bring to the Workshops

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

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 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).

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

Sunday Send Sessions (Sun, May 03, 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 15:00:00 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, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT (May 2)

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)

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.

Skills Series 2026: Backcountry Skills & Beyond (Wed, May 06, 2026)

Wed, 06 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT DATE.

Get Ready To Build Skills and Get Bushcrafty!

What to Expect:

Meet Your Facilitators:

What's Included:
To help hone your skills so you are ready for future outdoor adventures, this workshop includes some useful takeaways such as:

Printed resources - gear lists and recommendations, meal planning worksheets and recipe resources, practice rope for knots, a flint to take home for firestarting practice, a paracord creation, and more!

Location: Winnipeg; varying locations. Specific details + important information will be sent out in reminder email(s) prior to each session. Please check your spam!

Time: Please arrive on time so we can begin promptly. Times may vary; please check your inbox and reminder email information!

If you cannot attend all of the sessions, please see the options during registration for registering for a single session, or reach out.

What to Bring to the Workshops

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

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 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).

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

Skills Series 2026: Backcountry Skills & Beyond (Wed, May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

PLEASE READ THE REQUIREMENTS AND ALL DETAILS BELOW PRIOR TO REGISTRATION

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: BY MIDNIGHT, ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT DATE.

Get Ready To Build Skills and Get Bushcrafty!

What to Expect:

Meet Your Facilitators:

What's Included:
To help hone your skills so you are ready for future outdoor adventures, this workshop includes some useful takeaways such as:

Printed resources - gear lists and recommendations, meal planning worksheets and recipe resources, practice rope for knots, a flint to take home for firestarting practice, a paracord creation, and more!

Location: Winnipeg; varying locations. Specific details + important information will be sent out in reminder email(s) prior to each session. Please check your spam!

Time: Please arrive on time so we can begin promptly. Times may vary; please check your inbox and reminder email information!

If you cannot attend all of the sessions, please see the options during registration for registering for a single session, or reach out.

What to Bring to the Workshops

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

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 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).

This event is non refundable. 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.

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.