Blog | Get Outside | Canmore, AB

How to Cut Weight…. In Your Backpack

1/3/2020

backpacks west coast trail

Alright...we’ve all been there. Christmas has just past, maybe one or two extra chocolates and WAY too much turkey was eaten...just maybe. Feeling energized from the possibilities of a new year we pick up our pack and head out into the backcountry.

Not even a kilometre into the trail we find ourselves gasping away...who the @#$% put rocks in my bag?!?! Why does this thing weight so much? It has got to be the pack that is the issue, not the “one or two” extra chocolates we ate over the holidays. Right?!?!?

Two women waterfall grassi lakes canmore

women sitting looking at spray lakes watchtower

men and women snowshoeing Hogarth lakes, AB

We get it, we totally understand. It is most definitely the pack. Don’t worry we have your back! We are here to help and maybe make you laugh with our suggestions on how to pack a lighter backpack.

One or two pairs of socks. 1 for three days. 2 for 3+ days. Yeah your feet will smell, but trust me, you’re fooling yourself if you think you don’t smell after 2+ days of hiking.
2 pairs of underwear. No, we are not asking you to follow the bachelor rule (front, back, inside and right side out). With two pairs you can wash one pair in the stream while wearing the other pair. Alternate as needed. Usually your pack will have loops on the outside where you can fasten the wet pair so they dry. This system worked while Jenna hiked 5 months completing the Appalachian Trail.
Baby wipes - dried out. No need to carry the water weight. Dry these puppies out before packing them in your bag. When you go to use them simply splash a little bit of water on them and you're good to go!
Cut off the end of tooth brush. Yeah, it is only an ounce or two but trust us, it adds up!
Small travelling container of toothpaste. You’re not planning to live in the backcountry. Only take what you need and you can even find toothbrushes where the toothpaste is in the handle.
Stuff sack for your sleeping bag + clothes = pillow. No need to carry an extra pillow. Place your puffy jacket inside the stuff sack and wrap a buff around it and you’ll be off in la-la land before you can….Oh! Sorry, I fell asleep there for a bit. If you need a little more support, place your hiking pants at the bottom of the make shift pillow with your puffy jacket on top. The pants will provide more support while the puffy jacket gives you the cushion.

Christmas...It's more than Material Gifts

12/14/2019

Wow! The year has flown by, Christmas is right around the corner!

One of the top questions that have come up in conversations lately is “What are you getting (fill in the blank with loved one’s name) for Christmas? Are people asking you this? I know my friends have been.

Christmas time is awesome and a significant time of the year for many people. As I think back to the best gifts I’ve received; I can honestly say that being outdoors, guiding people, and moments surrounded by nature have provided me the best gifts. Pure gold!

Nature has magical grounding powers! Being outside allows me to reconnect to the world around me, put things into perspective and slow down (something we need in our busy lives). My attention is drawn to the various shades of colour on a single tree, how the shadows dance across the valley bottom, and how my heart feels like it is going to beat out of my chest. Being outside brings me into the present, holding on to what is important and letting go of all the other distractions.

In my years of guiding and working as a physiotherapist, I have never witnessed anything that brings people together on a deeper level than spending a weekend out in the backcountry. When we are outside, we are more open, our guards are down and as a result these amazing connections develop in a very short time. Witnessing this experience has been one of the most spectacular gifts a life outside has provided me.

One of the best changes my partner and I have made around Christmas time is to give experiences! This year we are going to France! Wahooo!! Yes, I am stoked!

By switching from giving a material gift to giving experiences we help others develop social connections, experience the anticipatory excitement as the adventure gets closer, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The reason experiential gifts can connect us socially and make us feel alive is that they generate strong emotions. When your loved one experiences the fear and awe of standing on a mountain top, the excitement of a rock concert (who here is a secret head-banger?!?!), or the calmness of walking through a forest… boom, magic happens. Our core is touched, and we never forget the experience. Talk about the best gift ever.

This Christmas help someone tick off a bucket list item. You can contribute to their adventure fund or get a gift certificate. Consider someone's favourite hobby or something new they've always wanted to do. How awesome would that be! Yes, please!

At Get Outside we know a lot of women that want to experience the outdoors. Maybe they haven’t had the chance, maybe it's their first time getting outside, or maybe they just need a break from the business of every day life. At Get Outside, we have many awesome adventures that would bring joy to your special someone’s life. For example, a remote, multi-day backpacking trip is always a top bucket list item! We still have some spaces open on our 2020 backpacking trips, they are an incredible experience. You can grab a Get Outside gift certificate to contribute to their wish list item or get them the whole enchilada… the trip.

Outside is my safe place. A place where I can be myself. A place where I can laugh, be playful, and have fun! Sometimes this involves friends, other times it’s nice to disappear by myself and see where I end up.

We’d love to hear what being outside has gifted you over the years! Leave us a comment or send us a message. We are all ears.

Winter Camping 101

11/22/2019

Just because winter is coming, it doesn’t mean that you have to stop camping. If you like sleeping outside and enjoy getting away from all the madness of city life, chances are you will love winter camping. We at Get Outside think winter camping is even more peaceful than the other seasons and in some ways, easier - if you know what you are doing and are prepared.

The trick to winter camping is comfort. That might sound like contradictory - winter camping and comfort, but once you get the hang of it, we think you might get one of the best night’s sleep of your life!

WHAT TO PACK

Like all adventures, you have to be prepared and pack accordingly. For winter camping, we can’t emphasize enough on how important it is to get a good sleeping bag. Spend the money, because a good night's sleep will make or break the trip. Always bring extra socks and always pack chemical hand warmers. They are a quick way to warm your feet or other parts of your body, plus they don’t take up much space. Bring dry layers just for sleeping in. If you stay in the same base layers to sleep in, you will get cold. Yes, wool and other synthetic layers dry fast, but your body oils will remain in the clothing and will keep you cool overnight. And, yes, again … make sure you bring extra socks! For a more thorough list, check out our Get Outside gear list here.

WHAT TO WEAR

Besides packing the right gear, wearing the right gear can be equally important. A pair of waterproof insulated boots is crucial. Keeping your extremities warm will make the difference between a fun, happy day and a sufferfest! That is why you should bring an extra pair of waterproof gloves. You are bound to soak at least one pair (even if they are waterproof.) Which leads to waterproof pants - it is super import that have waterproof pants because snow will quickly stick to you, and melt, leaving you cold and wet. Again, staying comfy is the goal and that is done by staying dry. Always wear layers. You can always remove a layer if you get hot and you want to remove layers to minimize sweating. Having options is key.

Pro Tip: Wear a thin pair of gloves inside your mitts or gloves. That way when you need to tie your shoe or adjust something that requires dexterity your bare hands won’t be exposed to the elements.

PACK DOWN A PLATFORM

This is where winter camping can be more easy than summer because you can always pack snow down nice and flat platform for your tent. No “princess and the pea” moments! Use your skis or your snowshoe and spend a good 10 mins stomping down the snow where you plan to put your tent. Let this area sit for an hour so the snow can harden. This prevents you from sinking in the snow while you are in your tent, which can also lead to rips in your tent. Take this time to make a hot chocolate or explore the area while you wait. You’ll be stoked when you get back and get to sleep on an even and firm plot, which will lead you to one of the best sleeps of your life.

If you want to come camp with us, we have Women’s Intro to Winter Camping courses this season

HOW TO SLEEP WARM

This is the number one question! No need to get into a cold sleeping bag! A nalgene water bottle makes a great hot water bottle. Fill the bottle up with boiled water and toss it in your bag - just make sure the lid is tight! Sleeping bag liners are great too, they add that extra warmth and keeps the cool sleeping bag fabric off your skin. Toque - of all your extremities, most of your heat is lost via your head, so bring a night cap!

Pro Tip: We all feel lazy every once in a while. Not wanting to boil water? No problem. Toss an extra chemical hand warmer into the foot of your sleeping bag 10 mins before you crawl in. It will be super warm and toasty.

COOKING

Being able to run your stove in the winter is essential. Your stove is your lifeline for being able to eat and drink. Using white gas is best because pressurized fuel does not work well in cold temperatures. Always bring more fuel that you think. Melting snow for water uses A LOT of fuel. Aim for around 200ml per person per day. And never forget...always cook outside of your tent or vestibule. If you cook inside your tent you risk carbon monoxide poisoning.

Armed with these tips and tricks, grab a friend, and head out on an adventure that you'll never forget! Still think winter camping is crazy? No stress, it's not for everyone! Come join us for a snowshoeing series where you'll learn tips and tricks on how to have a blast on day trips.

Get Ready for Snowshoeing

10/24/2019

snowshoeing frozen creek

Snowshoeing is one of the most underrated winter sports. If you can hike, you can snowshoe. It doesn’t cost much money, it is great exercise and best of all - it allows you to trek through snowy landscapes. But like most activities in the great outdoors, there are things you can do to make it more enjoyable, be better prepared, and safer.

Sadly, people have lost their lives in avalanches while snowshoeing. This isn’t to scare anyone, because there are plenty of places to snowshoe in non-avalanche terrain, but being able to recognize avalanche terrain is critical.

If you aren’t sure if you are going to snowshoe in avalanche terrain - then find out, “know before you go!” Ways to to do this? Take an AST course and or hire a guide. Here at Get Outside we offer programs for entry level winter programs like Women's Intro to Winter Camping and Snowshoeing for Fitness. We think knowledge is the best piece of gear you can get!

Three backpackers hiking in snow

Women tent snow

Women standing in a snowy canyon blue jacket

Bring the Right Gear
Colder temperatures bring much higher risk to those who are unprepared. When heading out make sure to pack a “puffy” jacket. Having a warm jacket to put on when you stop is crucial. You will cool off quickly when breaking for a snack or lunch. In the event of an emergency, those extra warm layers could be a lifesaver!

Don’t wear cotton. There is an old saying “cotton kills…” This is because it retains water and moisture. This means any moisture, like your own sweat. Wool and synthetics base layers are the way to go. And yes, they make wool undies and bras, and yes, we love them!

Pro tip: If you want to keep your phone’s battery warm, you can use the same chemical hot pack that you use for your toes and stick it to the back of your phone.

Hydrate!
When it is cold outside many people don’t feel as thirsty as in the summer months. You'll still want your body to work optimally, so you need to keep hydrated. If water isn’t appealing in the cold temperatures, try flavoured tea or carrying soup in a thermos for lunch.

Pro tip: Keep your Nalgene lid from freezing by carrying it upside down. Ice forms from the top to the bottom. If the bottle is inverted, your lid will never freeze (unless it’s completely frozen). If it’s that cold, it might be time to go home!

three women standing in snow

hiking in snow vista

women blue jacket snowshoeing banff national park

Other tips and things to consider.
Short daylight hours. You’ll want to make sure you time your trek so that you start and finish while the sun is out. Remember we only have 6 hours of daylight at the peak of winter!

Emergency training - when venturing into the wilderness, it’s a good idea to have a plan for the unexpected. Did you tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back? Are you bringing an InReach or Personal Locator beacon? Do you know how to use it? These are just the communication aspects.

Taking a first aid course, like the ones offered by Rocky Mountain Adventure Medicine, are invaluable. You can learn all kinds of helpful skills from knowing how to spot frostbite to improvising splints.

Know where you are going.
If you’re out exploring trails, especially those that are unmarked, knowing how to use a map and compass can be the difference between life and death. Some depend on their phone, but cold temperatures kill batteries, leaving you lost! We can't stress enough, don’t rely on your smartphone!!

Get Outside offers navigational courses that can help you find your way in any season. In today’s digital world, knowing how to use these navigational tools is not only smart but in our opinion, damn right amazing!

hiking in snow covered creek

group men and women snowshoeing

snow covered lake banff national park

Watch Your Feet!
When it comes to trails covered in snow, knowing where to place your feet is important. This might seem obvious, but one wrong step can make for a bad day.

Avoid tree wells. A tree well, also called a “spruce trap”, is the area filled snow at the base of a tree. There are no branches to support the snow and can be super deep and very hard to get out of without help. If you fall in head first, they can be fatal.

Stick to the middle of the path to avoid loose snow on the sides. You don’t want to “punch in” as they say. Not only because you can get covered with snow, but in some cases where you fall over, you can actually cause a sprain or in the worst case, break a bone.

We need to make friends out there. Stay off groomed cross-country ski trails or you may end up dealing with a grumpy person!

Take turns breaking the trail. It takes a lot of energy to break trail so take turns with your adventure buddies. Or, come out with Get Outside on our Snowshoe Series and build your fitness while having fun!

Finally, have fun out there! Winter is too long to stay indoors!

snowshoe frozen lake

women snowshoeing pink jacket

backpacking in snow

To learn more about Get Outside’s snowshoe adventures for the 2019/2020 season, click here!

Guest Post by Kirsten Leadbeater - Winter Camping Tranquility

6/17/2019

“To stick your hands into the rivers is to feel the cords that bind the earth together in one piece.”
~ Barry Lopez ~

There is so much beauty in winter. It is the season of quiet and peace. A kind of tranquility that allows for a reminder to take it slow, think about where you are and where you are headed; consider if this path you are currently on will take you where you want to be. Should you explore a different path, follow your inclination to consider different choices, perhaps an ultimately different you. Or maybe just be still and present, in the moment and let your spirit free to wander in white wintery bliss.

This winter camping experience allowed me to challenge my notions of fear, that held me back before. Fear of the cold, wet socks, freezing frostbite, sleeping on cold hard ground, frozen snot inside my nose. Fear of not being enough, fear of judgment while camping with people I had only met, moments before the trip, fear of losing control. Stuck in the past worried about my future.

But there in the mountain crispness and fresh forest air, I found these people to be kind. They warmed away my worries. We shared and laughed and accepted each other. My leggings got wet and I learned how to dry them using my body heat. I didn’t get frostbite because my guide had provided me with tips on how to warm my hands up while needing the dexterity of my hands and fingers. I adapted to the heat because my guide kept a close eye on my health and how I was feeling, I learned to adjust my layering and use my clothing to keep myself warm. She checked in” to provide the support and guidance I might need at any given time. I learned a lot about confidence by being around such a conscious, empowering and wise leader.

In among the forest stood a lodge pole pine. It was spindly but standing tall, like a wise giant, “that had been through stuff”. The stories it could tell you if it could speak. A tree surviving climate change, and I thought about that as, my guide, shared with us, it’s uniqueness. She told us about how all the trees were different. It changed the way I looked at them.

We took some snowshoe treks through a forest of trees in the shape of alters, and sleeping elves with snow caps as pointed tuques. So many beautiful things to see and take in. Creeks and rivers that had pushed and shifted rocks and mountains. I just wanted to paint all the different shades of green, all the shapes, and lines in the rock. There in front of me was the truth I needed. A beautiful wintery gift. The gift of wonder, of letting go, to explore. We followed a creek to a cave and waterfall.

I usually dip my hands or feet in every stream I pass that leads to the ocean. It’s just a usual part of my hiking experience, it’s something I’m drawn towards, like drawing or making music. We found a sleepy river, and as my hands touched the freezing water, I let the fear go. I felt connected to something far larger than myself. Water still runs underneath the ice, with a force that could pull you under, as it pushes and cuts through rocks. Perseverance can shape and mold your fear into strength, with a little hope and some courage. The longer you keep at something, the more you lose the fear. All of this happens in my heart, and I didn’t have words yet to describe it, because I was having so much fun.

“All the strength you need is already inside you. You will know when to tap into it when you need it” Jenna (the best guide ever), told me, at times when I started to doubt myself. “no judgement here” and “go ahead lead” as she gave us the chance to safely get lost in the trees, and in doing so, my imagination was free. We were liberated, ladies. I could connect to nature in my own way, explore the simple sleeping winter beauty of the Bow Valley. My heart filled up, my spirit was emancipated. I learned that wild women have the most fun! It’s funny how hard it seemed before when all I could see was my doubt and excuses. I was having actual fun being brave, there with my guide and my new musical camping colleague.

Somehow in all the laughter and exploration, my worries melted away with the snow. We were inchworms in mummy sleeping bags and waterfall cave explorers. We were three women getting outside! We were all healers of humans, all shared adoration for nature and we survived camping in a tent, despite the wintery challenges. I will keep my lessons together with my memories of a weekend outside, us three brave women connecting to the interconnected beauty of the wild Canadian Rockies ❤️

Gear Up Without Breaking the Bank: Finding Affordable Hiking Gear

6/4/2019

Trying a new sport or activity can be both exciting and expensive if you’re starting from square one. There are some key staples you need when embarking upon a season of backcountry hiking and/or camping as well as a number of odds and ends that will make your trip just that much more efficient. Gearing up doesn’t have to break the bank.

Luckily, there are tons of ways to seek out second-hand gear that will meet your needs. Shopping second hand is a good idea for many reasons. For one, it saves money. In addition, taking unwanted gear off someone else’s hands keeps it out of the landfill and does good for mother nature. Cutting on spending while being environmentally conscious? We’d call that a win-win! Here’s what you need to know:

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Second-Hand Gear

There are two things to keep in mind when purchasing used hiking gear: the price and the condition.

Ensure You Purchase Gear in Good Condition

When buying used gear, you need to make sure it’s still functional and in tip-top shape. For example, if you’re buying a used pack or tent, be sure to check the seams and zippers to make sure there are no tears and everything is in working condition. If possible, set up the tent to make sure all parts are together and working. If you can’t actually handle the gear yourself before purchase, ask for photos or videos of all angles including close-ups.

Run a Personal Price Check

It is possible to get awesome deals when shopping second hand, especially when it comes to lightly used gear. That said, it’s important to check out the original sale price of an item to confirm you are getting a deal for buying it used. Visit the maker’s website, shop around a bit, and negotiate or look for another sale if you feel the price is too close to the original.

Not sure where to look for your used gear? Here are some gold mines we’d suggest checking out:

MECs Used Gear Site

Hop online and check out Mountain Equipment Co-op’s used gear site. This can be found right on their homepage and will give you access to items across Canada. If you’re looking for something specific, you can likely find it here! Because MEC gear is of excellent quality, their used gear is just the same.

Switching Gear in Canmore

Switching Gear is an athletic clothing and gear consignment shop in Canmore. They have a wide range of gear, from packs to paddle boards, and you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here. Because many locals update their gear frequently, the quality and price are typically great and the staff is incredibly helpful. It’s also a bonus to be able to view and try out the gear in person before making a purchase.

Facebook Marketplace

If you’re on the hunt for used gear, the Facebook Marketplace is always a good option. Try Bow Valley Gear Loft, Canmore Buy and Sell, and other local groups. These sales are all independent, but because of the small community, you can often go and take a look for yourself before committing to purchase.

Scouts Canada in Calgary

If you’re ever in the city, Scouts Canada in Calgary has a wide selection of used gear for you to browse. You can find camping equipment, outdoor gear, and more. Visit the site and located the store closest to you. If you can’t make it to Calgary, you can also shop online.

Hop online or head to your local hot-spot to save money on amazing gear.

We’ll see you outside!

How To Have The Best Hike Yet With These 7 Essential Tips

5/13/2019

1. Get Training!

Train leading up to your backpacking trip. This will allow you to enjoy the scenery and what’s around you, rather than having your head down slogging along the trail. Start with shorter day trips and progressively increase the distance and weight you're carrying before you embark upon your overnight backpacking trip. It’s also a good idea to get use to your gear and prepare yourself so none of the details are holding you back from enjoying your trip! If you don’t know where to begin, we’ve got a wellness fitness series that might help or a 6 week training program that you can download and follow! Check them out!

2. Find the Perfect Backpack for You

There’s nothing worse than an uncomfortable backpack. It has the potential to really distract you or, in worse cases, put a damper on your entire trip. Spend some time in the store actually trying on your pack. Load it full of gear, walk around, make sure it’s comfortable. The majority of the weight should rest on your hips and not on your shoulders. Not sure if you’re wearing it right? Ask for assistance in the store! Believe it or not, a backpack is key on a backpacking trip. Put your time and energy into finding the perfect fit.

3. There’s No Such Thing As Bad Weather, Just Bad Gear

Yes, we all know gear is expensive and that sucks! But we highly recommend spending the time and money getting quality gear that’s going to last. Your gears’ durability and weather resistance is the difference between singing in the rain and having an Eeyore moment. Rain shouldn’t ruin your trip if you can trust your gear will hold up, you’ve got nothing to worry about!

4. Delicious Meals Without the Weight

Prepare yourself delicious meals that won’t weigh you down. We recommend dehydrated meals. If you’re curious how to do this on your own, we’ve got some awesome recipes on the blog for you to check out. Dehydrated meals drop the weight of your pack substantially. If your pack doesn’t weight as much, you’ll have more energy for the trail. Win-win!

5. Start off Easy

Especially when you’re new to backpacking, always begin with an easier hike than you think you can do. Build up to more difficult hikes as your confidence grows. This will also give you the opportunity to weed out any of the “essential” items in your pack you may not need. Usually, you can drop a lot more weight after you’ve taken everything for a spin.

6. Layer Up

Dress in layers so you can smoothly adapt to all weather conditions. For example, we like to layer up with a long-sleeve base layer, soft-shell jacket, puffy jacket, and a rain jacket. This offers the layering systems to deal with cold, warm, rainy, and everything in between. Wahoo!

7. Find the Perfect Footwear

We’re firm believes that boots shouldn’t need to be broken in. Find boots that feel great right there in the store. No one is more miserable than someone with blisters! If they are not comfortable in the store they are certainly not going to be comfortable 10km in. Try on as many pairs as your patience will allow. Enjoy being Cinderella for a moment!

And there you have it! Simple tips, HUGE impact. If have any questions, feel free to reach out. We’d love to hear from you. We’ve got more tips and information coming out on the blog, stay tuned and see you outside!

5 Day Adventures to Sign Up for with Get Outside this Spring/Summer

5/8/2019

Women hiking Ha Ling Canmore

The snow is melted (almost) and we are aching to get outside and enjoy the beautiful spring/summer season ahead. There’s truly nothing better than sunny days in the Rockies. What’s on your summer bucket list? Whether you’re looking to learn about the sprawling mountain ranges we’re surrounded by, gain skills to explore freely in the great outdoors, or just have an awesome day getting that body moving and getting some alpine air in those lungs, we’ve got something for you!

Though some of our trips are overnighters, we know that's not everyone's cup of tea. We can have just as much fun and learn a whole lot in a single day in the mountains together. Check out the list below, if any of our spring/summer day trips sound like the right fit, we’d love to hear from you!

Women hiking castle lookout banff national park

Discover the Mountains of Canmore

Looking at the mountains is one thing, learning about the mountains will make you feel like a real local! This hike will open your eyes one step further to the wonders of the Rockies as you wander the trails only locals know about. We'll guide you back in time as you hear about first ascents, crazy adventurists, and how the surrounding mountains got their names. Take in a birds eye view of Canmore as you hike along a ridge line and appreciate how beautiful this Valley is!

This hike, suitable for all ages, is the perfect half day adventure. Located within the Bow Valley, the hike is 7km and 3-4 hours in length. The hike is the perfect activity for your vacation. Meet our guide at Vertical Addiction, lace up your boots and let the adventure begin!

Click here to learn more.

hiking twin lakes banff national park

flower canadian rockies

hiking rundle mountain banff

Hike and Dine: Taste of Canmore

If you like to eat and hike, we’ve got something special for you! Spoil yourself with the perfect combination of exploring the mountains with a relaxing dinner and breath-taking patio views. Wake up your body and mind as you explore the mountains on a guided hike and reward yourself with a three-course meal from one of Canmore’s finest restaurants. Your future self will thank you!

The event runs Fridays evenings and Sunday mornings year round!

Click here for more information.

drinks and food on table iron goat canmore, alberta

cougar creek canmore alberta

Full Moon Hikes

Join us to howl at the moon this spring/summer! There’s truly nothing more breathtaking than a full moon hovering over the Rocky Mountains. Experience the Rockies in a whole new light! Learn more about the stars, nocturnal animals, and things that go bump in the night! Feel your senses heighten as the darkness sets in. Howl at the moon, feel the wind on your face, and your feet on the ground. Join the monthly Full Moon Hike and step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you may see...or what might see you!

To support the community, we are so lucky to call home, half of all the net proceeds from each Full Moon Hike will be donated to a charity in the Bow Valley.

NOTE: Full Moon Hikes are sold out for May & June, stay tuned for the next batch! Also, if you’d like to book a night hike of your own we can make it happen! Keep reading to find out about our Custom Day Hikes.

Click here to learn more.

women hiking at night with headlamp on

hiking at night with headlamps on

hiking full moon castle lookout banff national park

How to Get Un-Lost Navigation Course

Learn how to be independent! No need to follow your partner, they're just pretending they know where they are going anyway! Join us outside for a day of getting un-lost.

By the end of the day you'll be able to find north without a compass (or GPS), match the terrain around you to the map, use a compass to orientate the map to north, and tell your friends what the squiggly lines on a topo map mean!!! Phew, that is a lot to cover, but are we ever going to have fun!

Click here to learn more.

women looking at map

women looking at map learning how to navigate using map and compass

hiking through snow covered alpine meadow

Custom Day Hikes

We’re here for you! Want to explore the mountains for a day and leave the crowds behind? Are you travelling? Have family visiting? Looking for something fun or different for a corporate event or club get-together? How about an annual night with friends?

Look no further! We offer fully customized hikes, workshops, and courses for all levels of experience. If you can dream it, we can make it happen!

Plan your custom hike with us today.

If you want to explore outside, we want to make it happen! We could not be more excited for a summer filled with exploration, connection, growth, and a whole lot of laughter. Can’t wait to meet you!

Giant Smiles,
the Get Outside Team

Hiking Lake OHara

Two women cheering after hiking ha ling peak canmore, alberta

group standing on bridge with mountains in background

twin lake banff national park

hiking lake Ohara

women hiking canmore, alberta

ground hiking yamnuska alberta

Women’s Intro to Backpacking & Next Step: Everything You Need to Know

5/8/2019

Women's Intro to backpacking

We’re going to start by stating the obvious, our motivation is to help people get outside by giving them the tools, knowledge, and courage they need to do so. Our adventures focus primarily on women, but don’t worry guys, you’re allowed to join in on the fun...sometimes! But, for the purpose of the information below, we’re talkin’ to you, ladies!

women camping picnic table

three tents alpine lake

women backpacking lake louise alberta

Delving into a new sport, activity, or hobby can be daunting, especially when it comes to the backcountry. It’s difficult to decide where to go, what difficulty is right for you, what to bring, who to go with, and the list continues. Many people have had the pleasure of dabbling in various backcountry activities through tagging along with a person or a group who know exactly what their doing. Others haven’t had this opportunity. Even when you are able to head out with people who know their way around the backcountry, it’s rare you would walk away feeling comfortable or equipped to do the same on your own or with a less experienced group. Our aim is to give women of all backgrounds a chance to get outside and explore in the mountains, learn everything they need to know to explore on their own in the future, and have a blast while doing it. Does this sound like your cup of tea? Here’s what you need to know:

Women’s Intro to Backpacking

Not sure what gear you need or don't have your own? Want to try the gear first before spending your money? No idea where to begin? Don’t sweat it. That’s what we’re here for! Leave the stress behind and sign up for Women's Introduction to Backpacking.

The main goal of this program is to learn how to go backpacking on your own. We will cover the overall basics including how to keep your pack weight down, off-trail navigation, backpacking food and cooking, clothing, overnight gear, and animal safety! Hiking, camping, learning, and laughing, this complete experience will set you up for success. We keep the group size small, with only six people per trip, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for all.

This year's dates & locations:

June 28-30 - Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park - SOLD OUT
July 5-7 - Mosquito Creek, Banff National Park
July 26-28 - Twin Falls, Yoho National Park
Aug 9-11 - Glacier Lake, Banff National Park

Click here for more information.

Women backpacking alpine lake

Lake minnewanka

women power hiking

Women’s Next Step Backpack

If you’ve completed your first adventure and you’re craving more OR you’re wanting to jump in head first, this trip is for YOU! On this trip, you’ll head out into the backcountry of Banff National Park for three days! You’ll Have fun, time to appreciate the scenery, and we’ll put your skills to practice. The trip will take you through high alpine meadows, past beautiful lakes, and through mountain passes! Our goal is to laugh lots and teach you all there is to know about backpacking! Everything is provided except for personal gear, but we can arrange that for you if need be. After three days in the backcountry you will be an absolute pro at camping!

This year's dates:

Aug 23-26

Click here to learn more.

two women setting up a tent

hiking alpine meadow

women hikers under tarp cooking

After the Next Step

Our goal is to give you everything you need to get outside in the backcountry whenever you want, but this doesn’t mean you can’t join us again for trips and adventures in the future! We have a ton of trips going out this year, and if you don’t see something that fits with your schedule, we can setup a custom guided tour for you, either solo or with a group. There’s nothing we love more than sharing our love for the outdoors with others. Whether you take your skills and run or hop on for a couple of tours with us, we couldn’t be more stoked to share our passion with you!

Get in touch if you have any questions or want to chat!

ladies backpacking

women bridge mountain stream

paintbrush flower hiker in background

women hiking crossing stream

hiking past larch trees

hiker alpine lake

The Get Outside Women’s Award

3/8/2019

Women hiking Ha Ling Mountain Canmore

The great outdoors are wild, but they sure aren’t free. Get Outside Adventures has started a award aimed at helping women get outside and learn the skills they need to be independent in the backcountry. All contributions will go directly towards sending a woman, who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford it, on Get Outside’s Women’s Intro to Backpacking course.

We believe that everyone has the right to learn and experience the wonders of the outdoors. As the award grows the number of women sent on experiences will directly increase. What do you say we grow this thing together? Here are a few ways we believe this award can impact women.

1. Help Women Discover New Passions

It is difficult to uncover one’s passion for backpacking if the activity is inaccessible for whatever reason. There are countless sports, adventures, and activities that someone can really identify with, but may never have the chance to experience due to financial or leadership roadblocks. Our programming at Get Outside aims to break all barriers between women and the wilderness. Let’s work together to help more badass women get outside and discover their passions.

2. Get More Women in Outdoor Leadership Roles

There is nothing we love more than women inspiring women. Igniting someone’s passion for the outdoors is simply the very first step in what may become a life-long hobby, career, or lifestyle. As such, the more women we enable to get their foot in the door, the more potential we create for women in outdoor leadership roles. Seems simple, right? That’s because it is!

3. More Women Exploring and Inspiring Others to Do the Same

We are firm believers that seeing individuals like yourself doing something makes it feel more accessible for others to do the same. If women in your community of all ages and abilities are seizing the opportunity to explore and learn in the backcountry, others will be more likely to do the same!

4. More Remarkable Experiences Had by Women

This one’s simple. We want to enable women to experience the remarkable, do things they’ve never done, and step outside their comfort zones. An intro to backpacking may seem insignificant to some, but to others, it is utterly life-changing. Empowering and enabling an individual to experience the backcountry is a pretty powerful experience. One that has the ability to transfer over into others aspect of their life, encouraging them to charge after their goals.

5. Further Expand the Community of Badass Women in the Backcountry

The community of women in the backcountry is indescribably inspiring. Women are constantly doing new things, pushing boundaries, pushing themselves, and supporting one another along the way. Our aim is to support this ever-evolving community by getting as many women involved as possible.

Want to Apply?

If you’d like to apply for our Women’s Award, we want to hear from you! The primary criteria is financial need. Submit your letter describing why you are the best applicant for the scholarship. The letter will be reviewed by Get Outside.
Applications are due by mid-June each year. Successful applicants will be chosen by Get Outside and notified by the end of June. The applicant will then be able to apply the award to any of the Women's Intro to Backpacking courses that season.

If you know someone who is the perfect candidate, please forward this along!

Want to Contribute?

We can’t express how greatly appreciated your contribution is. Click here to contribute.

Happy International Women’s Day! Let’s celebrate the badass women in our lives, today and every day.