"I knew this weekend would be fun, but I had no idea just how much it would truly give me. BP101 was the perfect mix of adventure, learning, and relaxation- and somehow managed to be both empowering and deeply grounding.

Our group of women came from such different walks of life, yet we connected so effortlessly through our shared desire to grow, reconnect with nature, and stay sober. That bond made the experience even more powerful.

Thanks to everything I learned, I now feel confident to go backpacking solo- something that used to feel out of reach. As a trail runner, camper, and day hiker, I now feel way more prepared to handle anything nature throws my way. The skills I gained will serve me for years, but what surprised me most was the community. The women I met on this trip will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Truly a life-changing experience!"

"I literally flew across the country from Florida for this trip and my expectations were beyond surpassed.

The timing couldn't have been more perfect. The sober women in my group, the scenery, the guides (s/o to Laura & Jamie for being the BESTTTT), just everything about it made the most magical weekend. I never wanted it to end. 

I loved learning to set up my tent and sleep like an absolute baby in it, waking up on an alpine lake, watching the sunrise. Learning to filter DELICIOUSLY crisp water makes me hate being back to my Brita filter at home.  I was most nervous about the pack, but Laura made sure that we only packed what we would need and nothing that we didn't, which ultimately left the pack lighter than I was expecting - and I still think I was over packed in the end!! 

You learn everything.  How to set up your tent, cook food, filter water, and have the space to be authentic and open with other women who make you feel so seen and validated.  We laughed, we cried...I am so grateful to have connected with the community I never even knew I was missing.  I even saw the milky way!

A 100/10 experience.  Looking forward to more YSP trips! If you're still reading this -- go apply NOW!!"

"Backpacking 101 was informative and nurturing. I came into the weekend not knowing much about it backpacking.

I learned how to filter water, pack my backpack efficiently, set up camp and my tent, poop in the woods, and most importantly, "leave no trace" ethos.

I really enjoyed spending time with other like minded women who have been on a similar journey and have decided to break up with alcohol. It was nice to be able to talk openly about our experiences and even laugh at some of the drunk escapades we used to have.

Laura was an informative and patient guide who took time to answer all our questions and make sure we felt confident and safe. Both guides had a wealth of knowledge from their years of backpacking experience and I really appreciated them sharing that knowledge so that I could become confident backpacking myself.

Spending time with sober adventurous women in nature was nourishing for my soul and I highly recommend anyone curious about backpacking to trust Laura with teaching them how to be confident in the wilderness."