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 27 - 28, 2026
Baker Lake Trail

What & When

Our overnight adventure will begin at the Baker Lake Trailhead, where we’ll set out on a scenic hike through lush old-growth forest toward Maple Grove Camp. Following a gentle, beginner-friendly trail along the eastern shore of Baker Lake, we’ll travel approximately 4 miles to camp, gaining minimal elevation while passing moss-covered trees, cascading creeks, and glimpses of Mount Baker across the water . Along the way, we’ll take plenty of breaks to rest, snack, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Once we arrive at Maple Grove, we’ll settle into our lakeside campsite, enjoy a relaxing evening by the water, and take in the quiet beauty of this remote setting. We will go over camp set up and cooking, providing dinner and breakfast for all participants.

The next day, we’ll pack up camp and retrace our steps back to the trailhead, leaving with new backpacking skills, confidence, and a deeper connection to the outdoors.

We will run the program rain or shine but cancel if conditions are unsafe!

Who

Our backpacking programs are open to all women (cis, queer, trans) ages 18+! 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.

Cost

Our two day program is $80 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 tiered pricing with a no-cost option during registration for those who need it and trust that individuals will choose the option that is best for them based on their financial situation.

Elevate Your Backpacking

July 24 - 26, 2026
Two Night, Three Day
West Fork Foss Lakes Trail

What & When

Our adventure will begin at the West Fork Foss River Trailhead, where we’ll set out on a 3-day backpacking journey into the heart of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Over the course of the trip, we’ll hike through dense forest alongside the rushing Foss River, crossing creeks and passing multiple stunning alpine lakes including Trout Lake, Copper Lake, and beyond. The trail begins gently before climbing steadily into higher elevations, rewarding our effort with expansive views, cascading waterfalls, and quiet backcountry campsites nestled beside crystal-clear lakes. Along the way, we’ll take plenty of breaks to rest, refuel, and soak in the scenery, with time to explore side trails or relax at camp. This intermediate-level trip is designed for those ready to build endurance and deepen their backpacking skills while experiencing one of Washington’s most iconic multi-lake alpine routes.

Shifting Gears will provide dinner and breakfasts.

We will run the program rain or shine but cancel if conditions are unsafe!

Who

Our backpacking programs are open to all women (cis, queer, trans) ages 18+! 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.

Cost

Shifting Gears provides a tiered registration system to ensure accessibility for everyone, regardless of financial status. We encourage you to choose the registration tier that best fits your budget. Our three day program is $120 per participant to help with the transportation, food, and program leaders’ knowledge and expertise.

Your fees help cover essential logistics, experienced trip leaders, meals for Saturday night and Sunday breakfast, as well as permit and campsite reservation fees.

FAQs

  • 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.

  • We provide transportation from downtown Bellingham! You can always choose to drive separately.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Full Refund Deadline: Participants are eligible for a full refund if they cancel their registration up to one week before the program start date.

    No Refunds Close to Start Date: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within one week 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.

All Upcoming Programs

Select a date to learn more about specific programs and register to participate.