BY PAM DELANY

There is something restorative and empowering about spending time outdoors, learning new skills, and challenging yourself in ways you never imagined. Whether you are an avid outdoorswoman or just beginning to explore, there is an adventure for women of any age and ability.

Women-only adventures offer more than getting outside. They provide a safe space for self-discovery, building new skills, and enjoying the sisterhood of like-minded women. From guided hikes in stunning national parks to immersive wilderness treks, women- only adventure groups are making it easier to explore confidently. According to the Huffington Post, there has been a 230% increase in women-only travel companies over the past six years, indicating that women are seeking more adventure travel.

This guide highlights four organizations that cater to women of all fitness levels and interests, offering expert-led experiences in trekking, camping, outdoor survival, and more. Be prepared to embrace adventure on your own terms.

BECOMING AN OUTDOORS-WOMAN

For women seeking hands- on outdoor skills in a supportive and inclusive environment, Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) is a game changer. Run by the Arizona Wildlife Federation, BOW offers immersive weekends reminiscent of summer camp. BOW’s weekend workshops occur twice a year at Friendly Pines Campground in Prescott, Arizona. Women select from over 30 workshops, including archery, rappelling, firearm safety and shooting, and kayaking. For the less active adventurer, workshops include bird identification, gardening for wildlife, and Arizona edible plants. Classes are rated from easy to strenuous.

For many participants, the BOW program is just the beginning of lifelong adventure. Trica Hawkins, conservation program director at the Arizona Wildlife Foundation, describes how women often overcome fears, such as rappelling down a rock face, with the encouragement of their peers.  “We had one woman who was frozen in fear, but then she couldn’t get enough of it, and now she’s a rappelling instructor,” Hawkins says. Workshops are taught by experienced, committed volunteers. The cost is $475, including all courses, lodging, and meals.

“For the price of one private lesson in some sports, you can get an entire weekend of expert instruction,” says Hawkins. In 2025, BOW weekends are scheduled for April 25-27 and September 5-7.

What sets BOW apart?

Through its program, Bridges to BOW, scholarships and outreach seek to remove barriers and encourage young women from diverse communities in Arizona to participate in outdoor adventures they might not have otherwise considered. www.azwildlife.org/BOW

WILDLAND TREKKING

Imagine hiking a stunning backcountry trail, carrying only a light daypack, while your furry llama companion effortlessly hauls your gear. Just one of its many trip offerings, Wildland Trekking partners with experienced llama handlers that provide women with a unique way to explore the wilderness and form deep connections with the land, their fellow hikers, and the gentle llamas themselves.Wildland Trekking offers life-changing experiences that meet the growing demand for women-only adventures. “Women come for the adventure, but they leave with a deeper understanding of themselves,” says Jacqui Mandell, sales manager.

“It’s about stepping outside their comfort zones and realizing what they are capable of.”Guide Liz Lucas describes the impact of these journeys.“Women’s trips allow another layer to be shed. They aren’t trying to put on a face or meet others’ expectations. They can just be themselves, fully present in the moment.” When reflecting upon the trips she has led, Lucas doesn’t have a favorite.“It really depends upon what you are looking for,” she points out. “However, I love running the Utah basecamp because of the breadth of what I get to show.” The Best of Utah Basecamp participants spend six days in a backcountry basecamp with daily excursions to Zion, Bryce, and Escalante. Highlights include slot canyons, waterfalls, stunning views, and unique rock formations (from $2,695).

What sets Wildland Trekking apart?

Wildland provides Adventure Consultants who help travelers find a trip that best fits their needs and budget, provide planning advice, and can share their own adventure trip stories. www.wildlandtrekking.com

CANYON CALLING

In her early days as an adventure leader, Janet Scalzo and her colleagues noticed that something remarkable happens when women travel together. They become deeply invested in the experience and each other, embrace new challenges and connect to their “wild spirit.” That’s the magic behind Canyon Calling, a women-owned adventure travel company that designs journeys with heart, purpose, and friendship.

“We don’t have customers — we have guests,” says Scalzo, founder and chief adventurer. “We are a group of women who are passionate about connecting women so they can experience everything the world has to offer.” Trip prices vary based on location, activities, and length. The Sedona Sojourn is a 5-day/5-night adventure that includes red rock hikes, a jeep ride, a massage, and visits to a vortex, all while staying at a hotel ($2,995). For those seeking a one-of-a-kind international adventure, the Iceland Fire & Ice trip features a 7-day/7-night itinerary that includes a glacier hike, whitewater rafting, whale watching, and hot springs ($5,195).

What sets Canyon Calling apart?

Guests travel in small groups to receive the care and attention of experienced women guides. Many women are repeat guests. www.canyoncalling.com

ADVENTURES IN GOOD COMPANY

For the woman who has always dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail but doesn’t want to carry a heavy backpack or sleep on the ground, Adventures in Good Company offers slackpacking. Slackpacking allows hikers to complete sections of the trail while gear and food are transported to designated spots along the way, and hikers sleep in lodging or hostels.

“We design trips that are adventurous yet approachable,” says Dori Nix, marketing and communications director. “Our expert women guides prioritize safety, encouragement, and joy— ensuring that every traveler feels supported from sign-up to the final farewell.”

Their adventures are well-suited for women of all ages, including a recent participant who is 80 years old. Working with over 40 professional guides across the world, Adventures in Good Company offers global trips such as the 10-day Trekking to Machu Picchu, Peru ($6,495), and trips closer to home, including Hiking Bryce and Zion National Parks for 4 days ($2,595). They also offer specialty trips such as Wonder and Wellness in the Redwoods ($3,995).

What sets Adventures in Good Company apart?

The company offers referral and VIP discount programs. It also provides access to fitness training planning to help women prepare for challenging activities. www.adventuresingoodcompany.com

When selecting a women-only adventure company, it is essential to consider more than the price and destination. Ask what types of certifications guides hold. For example, the Wilderness First Responder and Backcountry Food Handler certifications are comprehensive certifications that ensure your guides can handle any emergency throughout the trip. Find out what gear and fitness level are required for the trip. Consider what is and isn’t included in the trip. You may even request to speak to previous customers about their experience. Most importantly, choose a trip that excites you — a single-day course, a weekend- long hiking trip, or a multi-day thrilling adventure. Adventure begins with the first step.