Mission Statement:
"Creating a community of women who can connect, network, and discover together through our local trails."
I'm a proud member of a hiking group made up of women from all backgrounds, fitness levels, ages, and types. The parent organization GirlsWhoHike has branches in most states and regions of the US. They are a semi-private set of groups --in that they don't appear in Facebook searches unless you know what you're looking for. You must apply to enter, but the vetting process is more for safety than exclusivity.
My group goes on weekly hikes in Southern Oregon to places like Squaw Lakes, Pilot Rock, Roxy Ann Peak, even around the Crater Lake rim. What I love about this organization is the emphasis on women's raw strength to overcome physical obstacles of endurance and stamina. These women are adventurous, indomitable, natural, curious, and prepared for anything. I had no idea so many others like me existed. They want to get down and dirty, swim in the pool of a waterfall, explore a cave they've never been in, tackle the elements for their natural rewards, and defy anyone who believes they can't be a force of spirit and grit.
There are over 75,000 girls in 57 chapters nationwide, according to their website's quickfacts section.Visitors from other chapters can ask for recommendations from seasoned hikers in a given area, and potentially start a small hike while they're in town. We share secrets about hidden trails like how to access them, how long they 'really' are (I'm looking at you Rogue River Trail), and what season is best for hiking them (some are only accessible in summer when snow is thawed and trail isn't muddy. In fact, sharing trails is our currency, our gold, so whenever we find a trail, we post about it so others in the group can enjoy it.
Backpacking rules apply: 1) Come prepared, 2) Pack out what you bring in, 3) Stay on trail 4) Enjoy the views.
It's an excuse for wives, mothers, single, and working women alike to get in a no-judgement atmosphere with others similar and dissimilar to them. Spouses, men, and children are welcome when specified. ;)
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