Women in the Wilderness

There are important considerations that every woman who treks into the woods, solo or with a group, should not ignore. Knowing what those considerations are, and having the knowledge and skills to address them with planning, mitigation, and preparation is essential to enjoying safe hikes and backpacking trips. Part of this course takes place during a guided hike.

Developed by a female search and rescue member and taught by experienced outdoor women, the Women in the Wilderness 8-9 hour course (finishing time depends on the pace of those on the hike) conveys the knowledge and skills needed to gain the confidence for safe and enjoyable hiking and backpacking. Designed for women new to hiking and backpacking, as well as more advanced female trekkers looking to level up, this course covers everything from safety concerns such as encounters with wildlife (human animals being a large focus!), hiking solo and in groups, the three Ps (peeing, pooping, and periods), wilderness hygiene, female-specific hiking clothing and gear, and overall trip planning. There will be opportunities to ask any personal or uncomfortable questions of our instructors in private as well. Benefit from our hard-won experience allowing you to feel even more prepared and empowered for your next outdoor adventure.

Sorry men, this one isn’t for you! This will allow women a safe space to connect, learn, and focus on the subjects that matter to them.

Minimum Age: 10 years old – the minor(s) and a parent/guardian must all be paid registered participants.

Program Guidelines

Registration is required. Please let us know if you are no longer able to attend so your space can be offered to someone else. Cancellations received at least 48 hours in advance are eligible for a refund, if applicable.

Programs at Duke Farms are held rain or shine, but in the event of severe weather, classes may be canceled. Email notice will be given as early as possible via email and refunds will be issued in the case of cancellations.

We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate, please contact us at registrations@dukefarms.org.

Accessibility

Duke Farms is committed to equitable nature access, and participants in our programs can expect or request the following accommodations:

• Paved, flat trails
• Instructors with voice amplifiers
• Assistive listening devices (ALDs) for indoor programs
• American Sign Language Interpreters, with ten (10) days’ notice
• KultureCity sensory bags
• We welcome working, trained service animals as described by the ADA

We may be able to provide additional, reasonable accommodations not listed here; please contact us at registrations@dukefarms.org.