Women’s Backcountry Weekend Success

Earlier this month, Alaska Huts held their first ever Women’s Backcountry Weekend. The purpose of the weekend was simple: get a group of like-minded women together to celebrate backcountry skiing/splitboarding in the beautiful location of Manitoba.

As some of you know, backcountry skiing can be intimidating. Not only is it physically challenging, but safe backcountry travel practices need to be followed, and the gear can be tricky to figure out. We wanted to foster an environment where skiers of all different backgrounds felt comfortable and supported – with no outside pressure or expectations.

Of the 24 women in attendance, there were skiers of all different abilities – from ski patrol experts to women who were spending their first season on backcountry skis. Some signed up for the weekend with a friend, while others came looking to meet new backcountry partners. There were mothers, boat captains, young professionals, teachers, physical therapists – a huge range of people uniting for a weekend of women supporting each other. More than ever, we felt connected to the Huts mission to foster camaraderie in inspiring settings.

With glorious sunny skies, and sparkly, powdery snow, the ladies spent the weekend doing lap after lap on Manitoba Mountain, followed by visit after visit to the sauna. We couldn’t have asked for better weather or company. 

Alaska Huts was very lucky to have help from multiple sponsors and volunteers to make this event happen. A special shout-out to Girdwood Brewing Company, Double Shovel Cider, Elite Sports Performance, Sarah Miller Histand of SMH Training,  SKHOOP, Skinny Raven Sports, Coalition Snow, Skida, Salmon Sisters, and of course, all of our Alaska Huts members! A special thanks to our Alaska Huts board members, Haley Johnston and Laura Bartholomae for all of the event support and vision.

We left the weekend with full hearts and tired legs.  Thank you to everyone who participated in making Women’s Backcountry Weekend such a fun success. Stay tuned for 2020!

All photos are courtesy of our friend, Mollie Foster Media!