Women's Weekend 2026
For women, guided by women, this trip is sure to rejuvenate, empower, and bring us all back to Mother Nature. Join us in exploring the diverse landscapes of Portola Redwoods State Park with an equally diverse group of other women-identifying backpackers!
Starting at the Butano State Park Visitor Center, on our first day we will make our way to the Butano trail camp, making stops along the way to see some of this spectacular park’s highlights. Day two will feature optional activities including hiking, crafting AND MORE! In the evening we will sip locally foraged tea and enjoy games and sparkling conversation, before returning to the Butano State Park Visitor Center on day three.
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Leaders: Elexis, Marika and Nicole
Itinerary: Friday June 5 - Sunday June 7, 2026
Starting Location/Time: Butano State Park Visitor Center, 11:00am (6/5)
Ending Location/Time: Butano State Park Visitor Center by 2pm (6/7)
Total Mileage: 15 miles
Registration Opens 1/1/2026 @ 9:00am
Back to Big Basin
Join us for the very first backpacking opportunity in Big Basin Redwoods State Park since the 2020 CZU fire!
We’ll meet at Big Basin on Thursday, then get shuttled up to Castle Rock, winding our way over two days along the newly-reopened Skyline to the Sea Trail and down into Basin’s restored Sky Meadow campground. Along the way we’ll get an up close view of how the forest has been recovering since the fire, and share stories of its past, present and future. Saturday will be spent in the Basin, with a variety of day hikes to choose from starting at the old Headquarters area, before spending one last night in our beloved park. This adventure is strenuous, with hikes of 9 and 10 miles on Day 1 and 2, respectively.
Don’t miss your chance to join Big Basin’s first backpacking comeback since 2020!
Difficulty: Strenuous
Leaders: Alex, Marika, Joanna
Itinerary: Thursday June 18 - Sunday June 21, 2026
Starting Location/Time: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 9:00am (6/18)
Ending Location/Time: Big Basin Redwoods State Park by 2pm (6/21)
Total Mileage: 25 miles (Day 1: 9 miles, Day 2: 10 miles , Day 3: optional day hikes of 2-5 miles)
Registration Opens 1/1/2026 @ 9:00am
General Trip Information
MILEAGE
All mileage is based on official State Parks and Midpen Open Space maps. Some GPS and other personal trackers may provide alternative mileage results.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Participants must be able to hike 2-3 miles/hour with a 20lb pack.
GEAR
- WE provide:
- water filters
- hot water for AM/PM meals
- traditional teas
- *Shuttle between start and ending location for The Skyline Sojourn adventure - YOU provide:
- transportation to starting location
- bring all your own food
- be able to hike up to 11 miles per day
- tent/sleeping bag/ sleeping pad
- all equipment on checklist
REQUIRED FORMS
To complete registration, it is mandatory to submit the Liability Release Form and the Photo Release Form(optional). To download these forms, please click here.
CHILDREN
Participation is open to adults 18 or over, and children ages 13 to 17 accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Cancellation Policy
Reservations are NON-TRANSFERABLE and may only be used by the original registrant. A 50% refund will be issued if you cancel more than 60 days before your trip. Cancellations less than 60 days notice are NON-REFUNDABLE.