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You have questions, we have answers! Below are some frequently asked questions, but don’t hesitate to reach out with more queries. We’re here to help you feel informed and prepared, and we LOVE to talk about trips.
What Do You Provide?
Wander Women provides all the group gear, food, and guidance for each trip. Group gear includes tents, cookware, stoves, first aid kit, water treatment, navigation, and permits. 1 or 2-person tents are available. Menus are tailored for each trip based on the group’s dietary needs and preferences. Serious food allergies which are sensitive to cross-contamination cannot be accommodated. Wander Women eat well, and delicious snacks are plentiful!
What Do I Need?
You will need personal gear, including clothing and hiking boots, as well as a backpack, sleeping bag, and ground pad. A super detailed packing list will be provided upon registration. If you don’t already own the necessary items, we provide descriptions, examples, and guidance on options for buying or renting them.
Do People Carpool?
Yes, some women choose to carpool to the trailhead, even if they don’t know each other before the trip. Others have found that the ~5hr drive from Portland is surprisingly easy to do solo, and it’s actually really nice to have those hours alone – especially if you are used to driving with kiddos.
Will This Be Safe?
Adventures in the wilderness have inherent risks, but we work to mitigate those risks through preparation and education. For example, we’ll properly store our food at night, learn how to correctly operate camp stoves, stay together as a group, and prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Kori is a trained Wilderness First Responder, and carries a Garmin inReach device, which enables texting via satellite even when there is no cell service.
Am I In Shape Enough?
Our philosophy is that backpacking is all about enjoying the wilderness, it’s NOT about how quickly you move through it! We hike at a leisurely pace, enjoy the views (and snacks!), and support each other along the way. If you can walk/jog a 5K, that is a pretty good indication that you can do these trips. It’s a always good idea to put some weight in your pack and practice walking around with it before the trip. Some destinations have elevations similar to Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood, so it is normal to have more shortness of breath than you would have during similar exertion in Portland.
Will I Be Comfortable?
If you follow the guidance provided with the detailed packing list, you should have everything you need to stay warm and dry, and to sleep well at night. We’ll help you properly fit your pack for comfort, prevent blisters, and listen to your body. As with any physical endeavor, you should anticipate some mild aches and pains – these just prove how much you have accomplished!
Can I Bring Alchohol?
Yes, although Wander Women cannot provide alcohol, you are welcome to bring your own as long as it is not in a glass container. Keep in mind that liquids are heavy, and drinking alcohol leads to dehydration, which makes your adventure more challenging. On these trips, you certainly won’t need alcohol to have fun, connect with others, and relax!
Am I Too Old? Too Young?
So far Wander Women have ranged from 67 to 16 years, and everything in between! Women who haven’t backpacked in 35 years have rediscovered their love of the experience, and women of different generations have formed close connections. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. There is no minimum age for private trips, but the minimum age for general trips is 14.
What If I Have To Cancel?
“This trip was a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Oregon while surrounded by bright empowered women. Kori and Hannah are excellent guides and curated a meaningful weekend for us to learn, grow, and enjoy our surroundings. As an experienced backpacker, I can say this trip really was for any and all experience levels; I didn’t feel held back or pushed too hard. It was just the right cocktail of nature, exercise, introspective activities, and getting to know each other around the fire. Would do it again in a heartbeat!”
– Brenda
