Backpacking
Shifting Gears' mission is to create welcoming recreational experiences encouraging confidence, wellness, growth, and joy for all women. Craving a more epic adventure that takes you out of Bellingham to explore for more than just one day? Consider our Backpacking trips!
Intro to Backpacking
June 1 - 2, 2024
When
Get ready to learn about the world of backpacking - join us for our Intro to Backpacking program on Saturday & Sunday, June 1st - 2nd! We will review all the details to prepare for the trip and ensure our packs are ready at our Packing Party on Friday, May 31st.
We will run the program rain or shine but cancel if conditions are unsafe!
Who
Our backpacking programs are open to all women! Our Intro to Backpacking program is designed for those who have experience with day hiking and would like to explore the world of backpacking. The program will include 10 participants, a Trip Leader, and Support.
Where
Explore the Nooksack Cirque as we follow the North Fork Nooksack River along a tranquil path with stunning views of Mt. Shuksan. Expect daily hikes of 3-5 miles with ~650' elevation gain. We’ll provide the transportation from downtown Bellingham, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast.
Cost
Our backpacking programs are $35 per participant to help with the transportation, food, and program leaders’ knowledge and expertise.
We want everyone to have the opportunity to participate in our programs regardless of their financial status. Therefore, we offer a no-cost option during registration for those who need it and trust that individuals will be truthful about their financial situations.
Elevate Your Backpacking
August 3 - 4, 2024
When
Improve your backpacking skills or challenge yourself with our Elevate Your Backpacking program on August 3rd -4th! We will review all the details to prepare for the trip and ensure our packs are ready at our Packing Party on August 2nd.
We will run the program rain or shine but cancel if conditions are unsafe!
Who
Our backpacking programs are open to all women! Our Elevate your Backpacking program is tailored for experienced backpackers seeking to empower women in the outdoors and build confidence with their backpacking skills. The program will include 10 participants, a Trip Leader, and Support.
Where
Our objective is the Goat Lake Trail, a stunning 10-mile hike boasting 1600 feet of elevation gain. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse beauty of this trail, from lush forests to cascading waterfalls, culminating in the breathtaking Goat Lake, embraced by snowy peaks. We’ll provide the transportation from downtown Bellingham, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast.
Cost
Our backpacking programs are $35 each to help with the transportation, food, and program leaders’ knowledge and expertise.
We want everyone to have the opportunity to participate in our programs regardless of their financial status. Therefore, we offer a no-cost option during registration for those who need it and trust that individuals will be truthful about their financial situations.
FAQs
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You will need basic backpacking gear such as a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking utensils, lunch/snacks, water, appropriate clothing, and sturdy hiking boots. We’ll provide tents and cooking stoves.
If you are missing any of the needed equipment, we’ll try to work with you and our partners on securing loaner equipment for you to use during the program.
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We provide transportation from downtown Bellingham! You can always choose to drive separately.
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Our backpacking trips cater to a range of fitness levels, but participants should be capable of comfortably hiking several miles each day with a weighted backpack.
Our Intro to Backpacking program is perfect for those with little to no backpacking experience but some hiking experience, offering a gentle introduction to the world of backpacking.
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Pre-registration is required to ensure that we stay within our group capacity. Registration for each trip opens one month in advance and can be found below.
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Full Refund Deadline: Participants are eligible for a full refund if they cancel their registration up to one week before the program start date.
Partial Refund Option: After the full refund deadline, participants may cancel their registration up to 48 hours before the program begins and receive a partial refund. The partial refund will cover a portion of the registration fee, determined by our administration.
No Refunds Close to Start Date: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 48 hours of the program start date. This policy helps us ensure adequate preparation and resources for the program.
If you need to cancel your registration or have questions about our cancellation policy, please don't hesitate to contact us. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Backpacking Program Dates
June 1 - 2
Intro to Backpacking
Nooksack Cirque
Beginner
August 3 - 4
Elevate Your Backpacking
Goat Lake
Intermediate
Meet Your Hiking Team
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Kenna Kuhn
Backpacking Leader
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Rebecca Agiewich
Backpacking Support
Upcoming Programs
Select a date to learn more about specific programs and register to participate.