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Friendship Works Activity: Cold Plunges and Hikes Friendship Works is a monthly membership, expertly crafted by Jennifer Dorothy, for women-identified people who want to experience a deeper connection with themselves and others by practicing the skill of friendship.  Friendship works fast and efficiently to relieve the pain of life. We all have pain, but we don’t all have close female connections. Aligned female friendship helps heal the hurt from isolation after the pandemic or a move, loss, heartbreak after divorce or the end of a partnership, challenges with parenting, finances, career, and extended family. Meet your life goals with this safe space to practice the fundamentals of being in aligned female relationships. Embodiment and deep discussion are essential elements of this type of deep connection. Sign up for a special event to experience it with other women through cold plunging and hiking. Jennifer Dorothy

By: Shannon Mahre Our love story is a tale as old as time. Girl falls in love with dirty Carhartt wearing boy that helps  her while she’s volunteering at a ski movie premier. Boy falls in love with girl that doesn’t know  who he is but likes to mountain bike and ski — then tells her months later that he was actually  in said ski movie. That meeting was over 12 years ago now — and a marriage, two kids, four  businesses and some gray hair later, it’s almost crazy for me to look back at the people we  were then versus where we are now. Then, in our late twenties, the goal was adventure and  doing whatever we could to create lives and work around playing in the mountains, on the  rivers and on the trails. Now, with two very adventurous young boys, we continue to strive for  that goal — through hard work, determination and a whole lot of grit. We are based in Naches, WA, about 20 minutes west of Yakima and minutes from local trails  and our favorite river to play on. During the winter months, I coach intermediate-expert ski  lessons, clinics, camps and trips all over the PNW through my company, Girls with Grit. This  season will be another busy one as we’ll be regularly at Alpental at the Summit at Snoqualmie  coaching midweek day Clinics, at Schweitzer teaching a women's ski clinic as well as a coached cat skiing trip at their Cat Skiing outfit, and I'll also be coaching at White Pass, offering a  few weekend clinics, women's ski camp, midweek progression clinics and private lessons.   When I'm not coaching this winter, you can bet I’ll be shredding with our four and eight year  old boys… and getting as many “mom + dad shred dates” and photo shoots in the  backcountry that my husband and I can fit in as well.  When I started Girls with Grit, I never thought it would be a full time job, but here I am 12 years  later, coaching full-time, year-round (fly fishing, skiing, mountain biking, river SUP and trail  running) while still doing consistent work as an adventure photographer and writer… and most  importantly, being mom to our boys first and foremost. I also host GWG Collective Women’s  Empowerment + Adventure Days year round — which fills my cup extra full of inspiration. Helping others to get over their fears, to give them the skills and confidence to show  themselves that yes, they really can slay that mogul hill, drop that pillow line or dance  beautifully down a black diamond run — that right there brings a joy to my life that is too great  to quantify. In fact, for both of us, coaching women and men on skis brings something to our  lives that nothing else does, but so does hitting sick pillow lines, and watching our boys  progress on two planks, two wheels and on the river. But I think that’s the key, right?  Progression, getting over fears, showing yourself that the impossible truly is possible — being  a part of any one of or all of these things creates pure, unadulterated joy — something many of  us lose in our lives the older we get, and the more “grown-up” we become. Sure, at one point, I thought of myself as just an athlete, then as JUST a mom. The truth? None  of us are “JUST” anything. I’m an athlete, a coach, a business owner, a wife, a mom, a  photographer, a writer, a wearer of 50 hats on any given day… Just. Like. You. We all have the  ability to grow, to live a life that we can be truly proud of — to give more than we could ever  possibly receive.  As I hear Huck, our youngest, waking up from his nap, I’ll leave you with one quote that I live  by, whatever facet of my life is staring me down at that moment. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away,” - Pablo Picasso. Life’s short. Share that gift…  and hit that pillow line.

Girls with Grit Activity: Ski, Mountain Bike, Stand-Up Paddle Board, Fly Fishing, Horse Back Riding, Hike and Trail Running Girls with Grit is dedicated to helping women reach their fitness potential through personalized training and outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and running. Their programs emphasize physical strength, mental resilience, and community connection, with opportunities for one-on-one coaching and group challenges. Girls with Grit is perfect for women who want to strengthen their bodies and minds while connecting with nature. Explore their fitness and adventure programs. TAKE A LOOK HERE OR CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR COMEPLTE DETAILS. Skiing Workshops : Hit the slopes or refine your skills with personalized coaching. Stand Up Paddleboarding: Clinics on the Yakima River, Private and Corporate SUP workshops, Utah River, and more Fly Fishing Clinic: I ntro classes, Casting classes, Tributary Fishalongs, Guided tours. We are proud to teach + guide for Red's Fly Shop's Women's Fly Fishing Collective. Trail Running, Guided Hikes, Wellness workshops : Build endurance and fitness while exploring scenic trails. Mountain Biking : Women’s clinics, Co-Ed lessons, Guided Mountain bike tours.  Hiking Boot Camps : Strengthen your outdoor fitness and enjoy the beauty of nature. Adventure Retreats : Join multi-day getaways focused on wellness, strength, and personal growth. Cowgirl Camp : Horseback Riding, Hat-burning, Tea-Making bar, a Horse Connection Workshop, Premium Swag Bags, Happy Hour... and MORE! Listen as Shannon Mahre and my good friend Cameon Orel, dive into a fun and insightful chat about the sports they’re passionate about, facing fears, and building a supportive community. "In every adventure, there’s room to learn, fail, and grow. And that’s exactly what we celebrate at Girls with Grit." "Overcoming cancer changed everything for me—I realized life is about doing what makes you feel alive." More from Shannon Mahre: https://www.womensoutdoorconnection.com/post/from-racing-to-guiding-how-motherhood-transformed-my-trail-running-journey https://www.womensoutdoorconnection.com/post/from-adventure-to-family-building-a-life-of-passion-and-purpose

By: Shannon Mahre Like many women, my ultra trail running journey didn’t begin until after I became a mom, in my  30’s and as a way to gain a bit of freedom after bringing a beautiful being into this world. After  having our first son (who just turned 6), I ran my first mountain marathon at 4 months  postpartum, then I began dabbling in 50K’s, and eventually entered and podiumed in my first  50 mile trail ultra. Kiddo number two brought on a zest for more mountain adventures in a bit of  a different way — I stepped away from racing and began guiding… and turned my focus  towards adventure runs with my friends instead of spending my time chasing podiums. As a coach, photographer, writer, multi-business owner, wife and constant kiddo, dog and  horse wrangler, my life is full — so my happy hour, my girl time is spent doing the sports that I  love and that I coach with the people that I love — skiing, mountain biking, stand up paddle  boarding and trail running. So when I came up with the crazy idea to plan a trip to the Grand  Canyon and do the Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim, I knew just who to call… and boy, would we have the  adventure of a lifetime together. At 4am the day of our journey, we began our descent into the Grand Canyon from the South  Kabab Trailhead. Traveling downhill by headlamp, poles in hand and smiles on our faces, we  wound our way down to the Colorado River. After passing Phantom Ranch, we began our 8  mile run up river to Manzanita, where our ascent up to the top of the North Rim would begin.   Red rocks and dirt, cactus and desert beauty welcomed us along the way — and so did  several water fill-ups and restrooms where we’d find shade for a hot minute before continuing  on.  Making our way past rock formations and colors so vibrant that they looked unreal, we chatted  our way up switchback after switchback until we found ourselves in a forest full of fall colors  right as we reached our turnaround point — the top of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. This  side of the rim was a stark change from the South, with lush greenery and an almost jungle like  feel in places.   After a quick sock change, sandwich chomp, water fill and joke sesh with with a crew that we’d  met along the way, we began our descent and return mission to the South Rim. And the  unexpected? It was just as breathtaking seeing the route from the opposite direction. When got past Phantom Ranch, we made the turn onto the Bright Angel Trail — which would  take us our final 8 miles up to the top of the South Rim. Darkness eventually met us with a few  miles and seemingly never-ending amount of vert to go — but with friends by each of our sides  and fueled by the desire to accomplish this goal together, we made it to the top with hearts full  of gratitude and thankfulness for overcoming this insanely hard adventure together.  7 years ago, I didn’t have the confidence to wear shorts in public let alone head out on a  journey such as the Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim. But since then, I have not only learned to love myself for  who I am and what I look like in this exact moment, but I’ve also learned that the older you get,  the more that you need to focus on growth, on learning and on getting past any fears of failure  that may creep up along the way. So if you see me on the trail now, if it’s even remotely warm, I’ll be in shorts, cellulite and all,  with a big ol’ smile on my face— because now, the trail, the adventures, and the goals I set are  to bring me joy and to help me grow not only as an athlete, but as a coach, a mother, a friend  and a wife. The drive to impress, to compete, to be the best is no longer — but the drive to be  me is here to stay.

By: Meg White, To the Mountain Shuttle Are your kids ready to ski or snowboard?  Of course!  They are ready if you are. My daughter demanded to ski at 18 months old.  Here is her first run! I’ve been a professional ski instructor at Summit Snoqualmie  for 18 years, and there is no wrong age to start skiing.  Of course, if your kiddo is tiny, “skiing” might be sliding down a snowbank and drinking cocoa. The most important concept to impart in their hearts is that skiing is FUN!  Never push too hard.  Each year your kids will naturally develop their strength, coordination, and mental grasp of skiing.  Keep reading for specific tips for teaching. First, your kids need the gear to keep them cozy.  Wool socks  for kids are essential.  Do not wear any cotton, please.  Cotton will get very cold because it is conductive when damp and will suck the heat right out of little bodies.  It’s true for adults, too!  Wool socks , wool socks , wool socks .  My favorite brand is Darn Tough  — made in America and guaranteed for life. Base layers are your next concern.  Again, No Cotton.  Here’s the ones  I get for Ani.  They are cozy and fleecy inside and come in lots of sizes and colors.  XS has fit her for years, but size S is also fitting her now that she’s in second grade.  She wears them everyday with a dress over the top.  That works great on ski bus days when she heads straight from school to the mountains.  For boys, you could layer the base layers under light weight pants for school like this  or just pick cozy performance pants like this .  Here’s a performance  T-shirt  to layer over the base layers. For outwear you have lots of options .  I also recommend asking on your Buy Nothing group and looking at ski swaps  for used gear.  It’s cheaper and better for the environment.  One-pieces are super cozy but less versatile.  An option for less investment if you are just trying it out is to layer up performance layers and fleece  under a  rain suit  that you can use for other activities. Four more accessories you’ll want are a helmet , goggles , face gaiter , and mittens .  Helmets are required for most ski lessons.  I love helmets!  They are warm and dry and protect our brains.  Plus, you can cover your helmet with stickers!  I highly recommend mittens instead of gloves because they will keep their hands much warmer.  Avoid mittens that layer over liner gloves because it defeats the warmth of having their fingers together.  This pair  has a string so they won’t lose them, which is nice.  Even without the string, most mittens have a wrist strap.  Teach your kids to always use the wrist strap and to always hook their mittens together when they take them off.  Losing one mitten is so sad. What else will you need?  Well, boots and skis/snowboard, of course!  Looking at ski swaps  for used gear and asking on your Buy Nothing are great options.  You can also get a season rental from several area ski shops. Seattle Ski  offers our customers a 10% discount until 11/1.  Even if you are just going for the day, it may be worth it to rent in town so you don’t get stuck in a long line on the mountain.  Ski boots should be as snug as possible but not hurt.  Warming them up before you put them on will make them easier to put on.  A heated boot bag  is pretty luxurious, but car boot warmers  are also nice.  Skis should come up about to your kid’s nose so they are manageable but have a little room for growth.  If their old skis come up to chest height, that still works.  The bigger a ski is, the more stable it is.  The shorter the ski, the more maneuverable. I don’t know as much about snowboards, but the internet  tells me that the same ideas apply. I don’t introduce poles until any beginner skier is making the transition to intermediate terrain, but I’m old fashioned.  Whenever you decide to introduce poles, adjustable poles  are a good option for growing kids. Once you get to the ski mountain, your first plan will be the magic carpet.  On their very first day, your goal is simply to be able to stop and go with control.  It helps to stay in front of them and have them reach towards you. Try to get their hands up in front of them so that their weight stays forward.  Keep their eyes looking forward, too, instead of looking at their feet for the same reason.  Little bunny hops help get them balanced on their skis. The next skill to master is turning.  Sometimes young kids will turn without even trying.  You can walk backwards in front of them in a curving line and see if they follow you.  To help them more, have them put their hands on their knees (keeps their weight forward) and point the direction they want to turn.  It’s a trick!  The pointing is just to take pressure off the inside ski of the turn and keep pressure on their outside ski because they are resting their hand on that leg. Once your child can stop and go with control and turn each direction down the magic carpet, I add a few more “tricks” they need to master before we head to the lifts.  I make my students bunny hop, ski on one ski for five seconds on each leg, and ski the whole magic carpet run backwards before we go to the lifts.  A big part of these tricks, which are all excellent ski drills, is building confidence.  If you know you can ski backwards, then it won’t be so scary if you get turned around on the big hill.  Skiing on one leg really helps with turning, especially if one direction is more difficult to turn in than the other. Is it time for the lifts?  How exciting!  Make sure to watch people loading and talk about chair lift safety — seats on the seat and backs on the back on the chair.  It’s nice to have two adults for your child’s first time up the lift.  Then you can play the same “ski to me” game you started with on the magic carpet.  Remember that the first time is the hardest.  The second run down the big hill will be way easier than the first!  Once you kid can make it down, look for terrain to help teach them.  Talk about turning up hill to slow down and stop.  Show them that they can turn their skis uphill without ending up backwards if they always keep their hands downhill.  Look for piles of snow around the lift towers to “jump” over.  Jumps and bumps are fun!  Jumps build confidence while training your child’s body to stay centered and balanced. Lastly, make sure to reward a good day in the snow with a warm cup of cocoa.  Talk about what was fun and what they learned from any challenges.  Let them know they did a great job and that you love skiing with them!  See you on the slopes!

Let’s break down the pros and cons of both Skiing and Snowboarding. Spoiler Alert:  You'll probably spend a lot of time on your butt either way—but trust me, it'll be worth it! A question I’m often asked when I share my love of snow sports is, “Which one should I try first: skiing or snowboarding?” Ahh, the ultimate question, followed closely by, “Which one is more fun?”, “Which is easier to learn?”, “Which one is more expensive?”, and of course, “Which one will make me look cooler?” Okay, maybe that last one is my own question, but still relevant! Here’s my take on these questions.  So, Which One is Right for You? If you’re asking this question, chances are you’ve been mesmerized by snow-capped peaks or maybe inspired by watching your friends and now feel the urge to join in. I totally get it. Here’s a breakdown of skiing versus snowboarding with some pros, cons, and a bit of extra insight from my personal experience as a biracial Black/Asian woman who didn’t grow up in the world of snow sports but dove into it as an adult. The good news is—I’ve done both! I started skiing, then switched to snowboarding, and now, after 25+ years away from skiing, I’m considering getting back on two planks this season. So, I’ll be pondering these pros and cons right along with you. The Case for One Plank (Snowboarding) Pros: The Cool Factor Let’s be honest—snowboarding looks cool. Carving, throwing up some snow spray with mountains in the background, just you and your board? It’s a whole vibe. Plus, the style is on point. The style factor is real and snowboarders tend to have more laid-back, steezy gear (aka style with ease). The Boots, Baby! Try on a pair of snowboard boots, then a pair of ski boots. It’s no contest. Snowboarding boots are like comfy slippers compared to ski boots. Snowboarders are rarely seen waddling awkwardly around après-ski—they’ll usually be walking comfortably while the skiers are struggling in ski boots. Smooth Motion Carving down a mountain or floating through powder on a snowboard feels like flying. The motion is fluid and smooth once you get the hang of it. Brands use terms like “flow” and “swoon” in their product names for a reason, it just fits.  Less Gear. Less Fuss. With just one board to manage and no poles, snowboarding is simpler. Fewer moving parts mean less gear to wrangle when you’re off the mountain. Throw on your boots, strap in, and go. Cons: The Steeper Learning Curve “Harder to learn, easier to master” applies here. You’ll likely spend your first few days on your butt (or knees, or face). This can be painful and demoralizing when you see first-time skiers gliding down the hill. But usually between day three to five is when most people start linking turns and feeling more comfortable. Once you get that key skill, you're basically good to go! Chairlift Woes Getting on the chairlift? Fine. Getting off? A test of your balance and coordination. You’ll have one foot strapped in and, well, it’s not pretty at first. Expect wipeouts, but once you finally nail it, you’ll feel prepared to tackle bigger goals.  The Dreaded Flats Flat terrain and snowboards don’t mix so be fully prepared to skate or in some instances, unstrap and walk. Keeping your board waxed and practicing acceptance helps. You can also do what I do, make friends with a skier and have them give you a little push when in need. Strapping In, Over and Over (and Over and Over and Over): Traditional bindings require constant strapping in and out, especially if you're on flat terrain or getting off lifts. It’s not a huge deal, but it adds up by the end of the day. Step-on bindings do exist, but beginners and even seasoned riders often use the traditional ones due to cost and performance. The Case for Two Planks (Skiing) Pros: Easier to Learn Skiing is often said to be easier to learn but harder to master. Since your legs move independently, you’ll have more control right from the start. The pizza (snowplow) technique will keep you upright and give you confidence, and you’ll likely fall less than snowboarders—at least in the beginning. Flats? What Flats? Skiers can cruise over flat sections, pushing along with poles like it’s no big deal, while snowboarders are stuck skating. You’ll feel like a mountain pro when you breeze past snowboarders while waving gracefully goodbye. This may or may not have happened to me while stuck on a flat on my snowboard.  Balance Comes Naturally You’re facing forward, legs separate—this is how humans naturally move, so skiing feels more intuitive for beginners. Plus, you have poles for stability, and it’s much easier to recover if you start to tip (and you will tip at some point). Chairlifts Are a Breeze Chairlifts are way less stressful for skiers. Just sit down, stand up, and glide away. Well, maybe not quite that easy as a beginner, but hands down a more pleasant experience. Meanwhile, snowboarders (aka me) are still strapping in their bindings at the top while you’re already halfway down the run. While it is not very mindful or demure to leave your snowboarder friends behind, it does happen.  Cons: The %#$%@ Boots! If you like tiny foot prisons, then skiing is for you!  Walking in them is awkward, uncomfortable, and, oh yeah, they’re heavy. You’ll go from feeling like a contender for the Olympics on the slopes to a newborn giraffe the second you’re off them. More Moving Parts Two skis, two poles, boots, bindings—there’s a lot to keep track of. It’s more gear to carry and manage, not to mention there is always the chance of inadvertently stabbing someone with your poles if you're not careful. There’s just a lot going on. The Falling Factor Ski falls are less frequent in the beginning, but they can be epic when they happen. It’s like getting tangled in your bedsheets—except the sheets are made of metal and fiberglass. Yard sales (gear scattered everywhere when you fall) are named just that for a reason. So, Which One is Easier? The million-dollar question (or, with inflation, the 100-million-dollar question) is... it depends . If you want a faster start and less falling, skiing could be the better choice. But if you can handle a few days of frustration and a bruised bootie, snowboarding may offer a smoother, more satisfying ride in the long run. My Final Take As a former fitness instructor, I was always asked, “What’s the best workout for me?” My answer was always: “The one that you enjoy and that you’ll stick with consistently.” The same applies here. Choose the one that feels the most fun to you. If you are considering both, I encourage people to give both skiing and snowboarding at least three tries before deciding which one to progress in.  One more thing—and perhaps the most important thing. Feeling welcome and included matters too. Snow sports are already intimidating and even more so for people who don’t see themselves represented on the mountain. Feeling supported, valued and like you belong helps these spaces feel so much less intimidating.  It’s a huge part of the reason I became a snowboard instructor so that I could teach and welcome others into this space. It’s also why I’m so grateful for affinity groups like BIPOC Mountain Collective Seattle. We ride together, no one is left behind and that's how it should be when trying something new. Quick Answers to Other Questions: Which one is more expensive? Both! Gear, lift tickets, transportation etc. aren't cheap and a large reason why snow sports remain inaccessible to so many.  But there are affordable rental options, second-hand gear shops as well as scholarships that now exist to help with passes, gear and learning opportunities.  Which one is cooler? Snowboarding. Floating through powder on a snowboard is the chef’s kiss and I will die on that hill lol!  So, now that you know the pros and cons of both, the next step is to get out there and try it! Hope to see you on the slopes! By: Tina Parrish BIPOC Mountain Collective

The Center for Wooden Boats  (CWB) is a living museum located on the shores of Seattle's Lake Union. There is a team of women sailors at CWB who are creating programs and events to get more Women on the Water (WOW). I... Andrea and my friend Cameon were invited to sail with them and had such a great time! Summer 2024 on a day that was the BEST. Blue sky + wind. I am so excited to know them and watch what they do for women in our community. Bring your family, kids, friends to CWB. Play, learn, or volunteer. CWB is dedicated to preserving the history and craftsmanship of traditional wooden boats, CWB offers hands-on experiences that bring maritime heritage to life. Visitors can explore a wide array of classic wooden vessels, participate in boat building and restoration, and take part in sailing, rowing, and kayaking activities. The Center is also home to youth programs, sailing lessons, and community events that make the water accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. A cornerstone of CWB’s mission is fostering community and providing opportunities for people to engage with the water in meaningful ways. Through their Free Public Sail  program, visitors can experience the beauty of Lake Union from the deck of a wooden boat, while their extensive volunteer opportunities allow community members to learn maritime skills and contribute to the preservation of this vital heritage. Whether you're learning to sail, joining a woodworking class, or just enjoying a peaceful boat ride, CWB offers something for everyone who loves the water and the craftsmanship of wooden boats. Pictures from our Sailing Day on Lake Union!

To the Mountain Shuttle makes getting to the slopes easier than ever. Based in the Pacific Northwest, this reliable shuttle service offers convenient transportation from Kirkland and Seattle to popular ski destinations like Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, and The Summit at Snoqualmie. Whether you're a seasoned skier or snowboarder or just starting out, To the Mountain Shuttle ensures a stress-free and comfortable ride so you can focus on enjoying the day in the mountains. Offering both one-way and round-trip options, To the Mountain Shuttle is perfect for those who prefer to leave the driving and parking hassles behind. With professional drivers, modern shuttles, and flexible schedules, they cater to individuals and groups, providing a safe and enjoyable way to access your favorite winter spots. Meet them at the Women's Outdoor Connection event to learn more about how you can book your next ride to adventure! To The Mountain Shuttle – Transportation to Recreation

Meet Cindy Perry, USFS Wilderness Ranger. U.S. Forest Service (USFS) - Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest The U.S. Forest Service manages and protects national forests, ensuring their sustainability for future generations. The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers diverse recreational opportunities and natural resources. Explore how the USFS works to preserve these lands and discover ways to get involved. Come meet Cindy Perry, USFS Volunteer Wilderness Ranger since 2011 for Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest out of the Snoqualmie Ranger District. About Cindy: volunteered between 500-1000 hrs/yr.  Trained in Wilderness First AID/CPR, Level 1 Aiare Certified, B Level Sawyer Certification, attended CIG Interpretative Training. Hiking - What do I need to know?  What do I need to take?  What do I need to wear?  What if I have to go to the bathroom??   Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - Outdoor Safety & Ethics USFS Volunteering - Want to learn more about your public lands?  Want to make a positive impact on your public lands?  Want to meet new friends?   Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - Volunteering Snowshoeing - Want to try snowshoeing for the first time or learn more?  Want to discover more about your winter forest?   Come join a ranger-led snowshoe walk this winter!

The Outdoors for All Foundation is a remarkable organization dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible for individuals of all abilities. Through adaptive programs, they empower participants to engage with nature, fostering a sense of community and promoting physical and mental well-being. Whether it's skiing, hiking, or kayaking, the Foundation (OFA) offers tailored experiences that ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. With a passionate team of volunteers and skilled instructors, the Outdoors for All Foundation (OFA) creates an inclusive environment where individuals can challenge themselves and connect with others. Their commitment to adaptive recreation not only transforms lives but also inspires a deeper appreciation for nature. Join them in their mission to break down barriers and open up the great outdoors to everyone!

Cascadia Forest Therapy offers a unique way to connect with nature and restore your well-being through guided forest bathing walks. Inspired by the Japanese practice of "Shinrin-yoku," or forest bathing, Cascadia Forest Therapy provides a peaceful and mindful experience that allows participants to slow down and immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural world. It’s not just a walk in the woods—it’s an opportunity to cultivate a deeper connection to nature and yourself. These guided walks, offered across the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, are designed for anyone looking to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and experience the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature. At the Women's Outdoor Connection event, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the experts from Cascadia Forest Therapy and learn how forest bathing can become a valuable part of your outdoor routine. Discover the healing power of nature and find balance in the beauty of the forest!

Amber Parucha Photography focuses on storytelling through the lens of adventure and nature. Amber’s unique style highlights women in their "flow state" — fully immersed in natural environments — creating images that blend beauty with powerful outdoor experiences. Her portfolio spans from the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest to the rugged terrains of Nepal, emphasizing exploration and connection with the world. Through her photography, Amber seeks to inspire others to embrace adventure, with her work covering not only personal moments but also commercial and event photography for diverse audiences.