As many of us find ourselves spending significant amounts of time indoors and, let’s face it, glued to screens, the vital importance of connecting with the outdoors is becoming increasingly clear.
The physical and mental benefits of engaging in outdoor activities are universally acknowledged, yet women who are eager to pursue challenges beyond simple strolls (which remain beneficial!) often face daunting obstacles.
Trish Van Haga, the visionary behind Women in the Wild Adventures, emphasizes that worries about safety, logistical considerations, and fitness levels are common among prospective female adventurers.
Despite these concerns, Van Haga firmly believes that they can be mitigated through education, detailed planning, and, most importantly, community support. She argues that conquering both practical and psychological hurdles offers benefits as pronounced as the outdoor experiences themselves.
A Small Initiative Grows Rapidly
After years of hitting the trails and slopes alone, yearning for a sense of community, Van Haga set out to establish a platform where women of various backgrounds and competencies could come together, support one another, and learn. With a rich background as a former gymnast and her current role in the forestry sector, she brings a wealth of safety knowledge, exceptional organizational skills, and infectious enthusiasm for outdoor activities.
What began as a modest Facebook group, with a handful of women gathering to hike or snowboard around Vancouver, exploded in January 2024 when an Instagram reel showcasing highlights from their 2023 adventures went viral. Consequently, Women in the Wild Adventures blossomed into a lively, multi-faceted community, with local “Ambassadors” leading complimentary events across Canada, the US, and beyond.
Safety in Numbers… and Skills
Women’s concerns regarding safety when participating in outdoor adventures are valid but not insurmountable. “I prioritize safety and security very highly,” Van Haga emphasizes, starting with verifying the identity of all potential Women in the Wild members.
Upcoming event details remain confidential, ensuring only vetted members are aware of where and when a gathering occurs (it’s also worth noting that this welcoming community invites anyone who identifies as a woman).
To empower women in building their outdoor safety skills, Women in the Wild Adventures supplies resources like online courses and informative articles on essential topics such as wilderness first aid and avalanche preparedness, alongside recommendations for further safety training.
Community in the Great Outdoors
Adventure groups tailored for women not only provide practical assistance but also foster a strong sense of community in our often-lonely world. Building community ties is a core focus for Van Haga, who takes joy in witnessing numerous friendships develop within her network.
“When you’re exploring nature with a group like Women in the Wild, you’re guaranteed to experience that feeling of community,” Van Haga states, “while also nurturing your mental and emotional well-being.”
A Definition as Vast as the Great Outdoors
Adventure holds varying meanings for different individuals. For some, it could mean the excitement of scaling steep cliffs or navigating fast-moving waters. For others, it might simply be a peaceful hike along a maintained trail or a relaxing paddle on a calm lake. The image of an athletic climber perched atop a distant summit might be inspiring, but it fails to encompass the full range of outdoor adventure and the diverse people who partake in it.
As long as you venture outdoors—with a curious spirit and a desire to connect with nature—there’s a good chance you’ll encounter remarkable rewards.
This piece was first published in the May 2025 edition of Thewindowsclubs magazine.
