Sold Out!
Missed the registration deadline? Don’t worry! Plans are underway to offer this course again next year!
We’re so excited to announce our new course, Women’s Introduction to Backpacking, offered through Southwestern Community College in Bryson City, NC! This is a 4-month course where we meet one Saturday a month, and in the final month, the group goes on a 3 day/2 night backpacking trip where you have the opportunity to practice the skills you’ve learned.
In this beginner-friendly class, we’ll cover the foundational skills needed for a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip. We’ll explore topics such as gear essentials, how to properly pack a backpack, trip planning, trail safety, food and water systems, navigation basics, and Leave No Trace ethics. You’ll also learn practical wilderness skills like campsite selection, backcountry hygiene, and how to stay comfortable in changing weather.
This course is specifically designed for women who are new to backpacking or looking to build confidence in the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced day hiker ready to go farther or someone completely new to the trail, this class offers a supportive space to learn, ask questions, and connect with other women who share a love for nature.
Backpacking is more than just hiking with a pack—it’s an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with the natural world, and discover your own strength and resilience along the way.
Come join us as we build the skills and confidence to explore wild places together. Download THIS FILE for more details on the course.
Note*** Occasionally the college website is down. If you're having trouble with the site loading, please contact Jeff Marley, Director of Personal Enrichment, 828.366.2005, to register.
Register! → Click this link: https://www.southwesterncc.edu/class-schedule then click on “Outdoor Experiences” and scroll to find the “Women’s Introduction to Backpacking” class. Click select and follow the prompts!
Sold Out!
Missed the registration deadline? Don’t worry! Plans are underway to offer this course again next year!
We’re so excited to announce our new course, Women’s Introduction to Backpacking, offered through Southwestern Community College in Bryson City, NC! This is a 4-month course where we meet one Saturday a month, and in the final month, the group goes on a 3 day/2 night backpacking trip where you have the opportunity to practice the skills you’ve learned.
In this beginner-friendly class, we’ll cover the foundational skills needed for a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip. We’ll explore topics such as gear essentials, how to properly pack a backpack, trip planning, trail safety, food and water systems, navigation basics, and Leave No Trace ethics. You’ll also learn practical wilderness skills like campsite selection, backcountry hygiene, and how to stay comfortable in changing weather.
This course is specifically designed for women who are new to backpacking or looking to build confidence in the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced day hiker ready to go farther or someone completely new to the trail, this class offers a supportive space to learn, ask questions, and connect with other women who share a love for nature.
Backpacking is more than just hiking with a pack—it’s an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with the natural world, and discover your own strength and resilience along the way.
Come join us as we build the skills and confidence to explore wild places together. Download THIS FILE for more details on the course.
Note*** Occasionally the college website is down. If you're having trouble with the site loading, please contact Jeff Marley, Director of Personal Enrichment, 828.366.2005, to register.
Register! → Click this link: https://www.southwesterncc.edu/class-schedule then click on “Outdoor Experiences” and scroll to find the “Women’s Introduction to Backpacking” class. Click select and follow the prompts!