Apr24Ladies, learn to backpack like a pro!
The main goal of this program is to learn how to go backcountry 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.
Details are organized so planning feels straightforward and comparable with other options nearby. Session notes summarize inclusions, meeting logistics, group size, and suggested preparation, helping with clear expectations before choosing a date. The outline typically includes a gear checklist, packing tips, weather considerations, and timing for trail start, breaks, and camp setup. The skills taught are applied to longer routes and can inform future planning for private backpacking tours or a tailored private guided backpacking outing with a small group. This course is structured to make "Canadian Rockies" guided backpacking feel approachable by focusing on repeatable systems, calm decision-making, and practical checklists. Reminding about hydration, snacks, blister prevention, and pacing strategies that support comfort and steady progress throughout the weekend.
Level of difficulty
Easy–moderate
- PackGear + food, up to 10 km a day
- On the moveup to 10 km a day
This trip is designed to teach women the skills they need to become independent in the backcountry. No previous experience is necessary but this should not be your first hike of the year. You will need to carry your personal gear plus food and water for up to 10km each day. When packing, be mindful that your pack should not weight more than 30lbs (13.5kg).
Day by day
- Day1
Today is for the pre-trip meeting only. The meeting will be held in person at 7 pm in either Canmore, Nordegg, or Invermere, BC, depending on the trip's location. Exact location TBD. We will make sure everyone has everything they need, introduce the group, laugh lots, and distribute the group gear. Virtual attendance is also an option.
- Day2
We'll wake up full of energy and drive ourselves to the trailhead. Part of the day will be spent hiking, camp will be set up around mid-day, and the afternoon will be full of instruction and exploring.
- Day3
After a casual start and a delicious breakfast, our new skills will be honed as we navigate our way back to our cars.
Gear, food & lodging
Included
Backcountry skills learning
- Wilderness pass for one night
- Tents for camping
Amazingly delicious food from the evening of day 2 (Day 1 is pre-trip) to lunch on the last day of the hike (Day three).
- The expertise from an ACMG Guide
- All group gear - stoves, pots, food storage materials, and water treatment
- All safety equipment - bear spray, first aid kit, emergency communication device, and tarp
You bring
- Accommodations the night before getting on the trail
- Breakfast and Lunch of day 1 and supper on the last day
- Personal Gear (Can be arranged for an additional fee)
Personal Gear List
Kananaskis Country Conservation Pass or National Park Pass depending on where we hike
Photos from the trail
Taken by our guides and guests on this trip.
Canmore
Where
Banff NP, Kananaskis & Columbia Valley
Get Outside is based in Canmore, Alberta — 1.25 hours from Calgary International Airport, 5 km from the entrance to Banff National Park. Multi-day trips start with an in-person pre-trip meeting where we check everyone’s gear and hand out group equipment.
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