Registration Deadline: April 30, 2026.
Paperwork Deadline: May 15, 2026.

Adventure Backpack has a new location!

A classic Girls+ Wilderness Adventure is heading into our own Colorado backyard. Spend a week backpacking through Golden Gate Canyon State Park, exploring four different campsites as we travel through some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.

Designed for rising 7th-9th grade girls and gender-expansive youth, this course strengthens confidence in wilderness skills, fosters a strong sense of belonging, and empowers participants through the shared challenge of backpacking and camping. Each day, we’ll hike to a new destination, set up camp in a different part of the park, and grow our skills and community along the way.

Throughout the week, participants will practice essential outdoor techniques—navigation, safety, campsite setup, teamwork, and more—while forming a supportive community and discovering the strength that comes from navigating the backcountry together.

• Day 1 (Monday):  Kickoff at Women’s Wilderness–Gear Up & Go
  We’ll kick off our week by getting to know one another through fun team-building activities before double-checking all personal and group gear. Once we’re ready, we’ll drive about an hour to our trailhead and begin our adventure with a gentle 1.5-mile backpack to our first campsite. Our first night will include lessons on setting up our backcountry campsites and cooking meals outside.
• Day 2 (Tuesday)
  Today we travel deeper into the park with a 2-mile hike to our next campsite. After setting up camp, we’ll have time to explore a stunning valley, visit a peaceful lake, and check out a nearby historic site.
• Day 3 (Wednesday)
  Our biggest hiking day! We’ll cover 3 miles, gaining about 1,000 feet of elevation before descending into our next campsite. We’ll take our time, enjoy the views, snack along the way, and support one another on the climb. Tonight brings a fun treat—camping in an established campground, which means… pit toilets!
• Day 4 (Thursday)
  We’ll shoulder our packs again for a 2-mile hike to another serene backcountry campsite. This is a chance to settle into the rhythm of travel, enjoy time with our group, and soak in the quiet beauty of the high country.
• Day 5 (Friday)
  Our final morning on trail features a 2-mile downhill hike to the trailhead, where we’ll meet our Women’s Wilderness shuttle. Back in Boulder, we’ll return gear, reflect on the week’s adventures, celebrate our accomplishments, and share heartfelt “see you next time!” moments.

This course is led by professional and experienced outdoor instructors with extensive experience in youth outdoor education. Each guide is a certified Wilderness First Responder and is fully trained in Women’s Wilderness curriculum and risk management protocols, ensuring a safe, enriching, and enjoyable experience for every participant. 

Camp Details

• Ages: girls and non-binary youth entering grades 7-9 in Fall 2026
• Dates: Monday, July 13 through Friday, July 17

  • Drop Off – 8:00AM July 13
  • Pick Up – 3:30PM July 17

• Location: Golden Gate Canyon State Park  (Drop-off and pick-up  at Women’s Wilderness – 1206 Euclid Ave, Boulder, 80302)
• Activity level: moderate. Some prior experience hiking and camping recommended but not required; ability to hike up to 3 miles/day recommended

Price

Our pricing model for Girls+ Wilderness courses is tiered to allow families to participate at a rate that works for them. Tier 1 (Supporter) is a pay-it–forward option for those able to help expand access for another participant. Tier 2 (Base) is the standard course fee on which all other tiers are anchored. Tier 3 (Early Bird) is a discounted Based Rate, available only during January. Finally, Tier 4 (Financial Aid) is a reduced rate based on the Base Rate for those who need financial support to participate.

Payment plans are available for all rates.

• Tier 1 – Supporter Rate: $1,350
• Tier 2 – Base Rate: $1,100
• Tier 3- Early Bird: $975 (expired February 28, 2026)
• Tier 4 – Financial Aid: this is core to our mission to make the outdoors accessible to all people. To learn more about Financial Aid options and apply, please click here. Please do not register for camp before receiving an award notice because we are unable to retroactively apply financial aid awards.

Included in the Program:

• Expert instructors: All instructors are trained in social and emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, conscious choice, wilderness guiding, and hold Wilderness First Responder certifications.
• Camping sites and gear: We will reserve all backcountry campsites and permits, and provide all gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and group camping and  cooking equipment.
• All meals and snacks: Nutritious meals and snacks will be prepared and provided; participants will share in carrying group meals and kitchen gear. All dietary restrictions and allergies will be accommodated. 
• Outdoor gear: Access to essential items, including backpacks, clothing, weather-proof gear, boots, and hiking poles.
• Transportation: We handle all travel to/from Women’s Wilderness and Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

Everything is taken care of so participants can focus on having an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

A  detailed list of items to bring for this course will be sent to families upon registration, as well as a preparation video to prepare you for camp. Women’s Wilderness has most items in our gear library for participants to borrow and use (a gear reservation link will be sent to each family closer to the trip date). 

Accessibility & Accommodations:

All physical, psychological, cultural, and religious accommodations of participants will be discussed and considered with families prior to camp.

• Physical: This course includes hiking up to 2 miles per day, as well as an opportunity to climb a large boulder (while safely belayed by staff). Participants should feel comfortable sleeping outdoors, in a tent, and on a sleeping pad. Access to restrooms (indoor plumbing and pit toilets) is guaranteed, as is hand washing with water.
• Psychological: Staff are trained to manage emotions that may influence a participant’s decision to participate, including fear and homesickness. We welcome youth who this would be their first time camping and/or first time overnighting away from home.
• Language: English is the primary language used during our field courses. While fluency is not required, participants must be able to understand instructions and directions, especially those related to safety and risk management.

Child Care Licensing Requirements:

Due to our licensing we are required to have all forms below that apply. Please make sure to make an appointment before the paperwork deadline:

• Required for ALL participants: Youth Health Form (Physical- We will provide the form)
• If participant has allergy that requires an epi-pen: Colorado Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan
• If participant has asthma: Colorado Asthma Care Plan and Medication
• If participant has seizures: Seizures Emergency Care Plan and Medication Orders
• If participant has been to counselor/therapist in past 2 years: Counselor/Therapist Form

This paperwork must be turned in by the paperwork due date MAY 15, 2026 for your student to keep their spot in our youth camp. Please make sure that your physical appointment is set before that date.

Curious about our philosophy, risk management protocols, and how to best prepare of the course? Click here to read our Parent & Family Guidebook.

For any questions email support@womenswilderness.org.