Venturing into the world of outdoor adventures can seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn't have to be! As more women embrace the joys of exploring the great outdoors, a wealth of resources is available to help you get started on your journey. From the best gear retailers to epic adventure stories and incredible travel companies, these websites will inspire you to lace up your boots and get outside.
Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)
Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is a Canadian outdoor retail company devoted to encouraging more people to explore the great outdoors. Their website offers a specialized section on hiking and camping, including easy-to-follow guides, helpful tips, and equipment recommendations for beginners. In addition, MEC's blog shares motivating stories from individuals who have embarked on outdoor adventures, inspiring you to venture outside and experience something new.
Wild Women Expeditions
If you're looking for a supportive community of like-minded women, Wild Women Expeditions is the perfect place to start. I've personally travelled with Wild Women Expeditions for a five-day kayaking trip in the Broken Group Islands, and it was a life-changing experience. This adventure travel company offers women-only trips, ranging from hiking and kayaking to horseback riding, safaris, sailing and even yoga retreats. With a strong emphasis on empowering women in the outdoors, Wild Women Expeditions fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for beginners to explore their potential and conquer new challenges.
Related: Four Reasons Outdoor Adventure Is For Everyone
Patagonia Stories
Patagonia, a leading outdoor brand, hosts a collection of stories that showcase the adventures of amazing people doing amazing things in the outdoors. With a focus on environmental stewardship, activism, and the embrace of challenges, Patagonia Stories will inspire you to push your limits and discover your own sense of adventure.
Adventure Smart
Safety is key when embarking on outdoor adventures, and Adventure Smart is a valuable resource for beginners. This initiative provides essential safety tips and educational materials for a range of outdoor activities. Their Trip Plan feature is especially helpful for venturing outdoors, as it lets you share your plans with friends or family in case of an emergency. The Adventure Smart website also offers down-to-earth guidance on overcoming challenges and staying safe in the outdoors, with a focus on preparedness.
Related: Outdoor Adventure Activities for Beginners
Backroads Mapbook
Backroads Mapbook creates comprehensive guidebooks to help you explore Canada's backcountry. Featuring detailed maps, trail descriptions, and points of interest, it makes planning your next adventure a breeze. As you start exploring the outdoors, it's important to have accurate and up-to-date information about the area you're visiting. With a focus on remote destinations and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Backroads Mapbook will help you plan and navigate your journey.
G Adventures
G Adventures is a renowned adventure travel company that offers guided tours in Canada and around the world. I have travelled with G Adventures, and my favourite trip was definitely an adventure tour through Costa Rica. As a solo woman traveller, I felt safe travelling in a foreign country, but not overwhelmed by a jam-packed itinerary. Their tours cater to a range of interests and skill levels, making it easy for anyone new to outdoor adventures to find the perfect trip. Whether you're exploring the Canadian Rockies or venturing to the Arctic, G Adventures provides a unique and memorable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors.
Related: Why Solo Travel Is a Must for Women Who Love the Outdoors
Key takeaways
As you navigate the vast and diverse landscapes of the great outdoors, remember that the most important aspect of any adventure is to enjoy the journey, learn from the challenges, and celebrate the triumphs along the way. So gather your gear, map out your route, and take the first step into the incredible world of outdoor exploration—the beauty of nature awaits!
