Is this your year to sign up for a race, a retreat, get out for a hike or adventure challenge? Maybe a community excursions that blends physical challenge with connection? Whether you’re into trail running, multi-day adventures, or weekend retreats, 2026 has opportunities to connect with other women outdoors.
Trail Running & Race Weekends
Wild Woman Trail Race Weekend — Washington, USA
- Date: June 19–21, 2026
- Location: Trout Lake, Washington (base of Mt. Adams)
- Website: Wild Woman Trail Runs
Why go: A trail running festival by women, for women — with so many distance options: marathon, half-marathon, 50k, and more. It’s less about podiums and more about community, shared meals, workshops, and overnight camping with fellow runners.
Bonus: Nervous about trying your first 50k? Apply for the First 50K Sisterhood by Jan 20th, 2026
The First 50K Sisterhood is an invitation to say yes to yourself and the possibility of running farther than you ever have before. If you’ve been curious about running a 50K but felt unsure where to start, this program offers the structure, mentorship, and community to make it feel achievable. Apply if you’re ready to commit to the process, lean on a powerful sisterhood, and train with intention toward a milestone that’s as much about personal growth as it is about the finish line.
Trail Sisters Run Series — Various Locations (USA)
- Dates: April 11, 2026 — Trail Sisters Half Marathon (Healdsburg, CA) – May & June various retreat dates across the U.S.
- Website: Trail Sisters
Why go? This women-focused trail running community hosts several Run with Her retreats and race weekends — perfect for runners who want endurance, camaraderie, and personal growth.
Trail Girl 2-Day Wilderness Run — South Africa
- Date: November 21, 2026
- Location: South African Wilderness
- Website: Racepass
Why go? Use this a the springboard for a bigger adventure! This is a unique 2-day event in South Africa’s wild landscapes that’s equal parts empowerment and trail adventure.
Multi- and Single-Day Outdoor Adventures
AWExpeditions — Worldwide
- Date: Various departures throughout 2026
- Location: Global destinations including Patagonia, Iceland, the Dolomites, Peru, and more
- Website: AWExpeditions
Why go: AWE Expeditions offers women-only adventure travel experiences that combine physical challenge, breathtaking landscapes, and meaningful connection. These trips are designed to feel both empowering and accessible, whether you’re trekking through iconic mountain ranges or exploring remote cultural landscapes. Expect thoughtfully paced itineraries, experienced female guides, and a strong emphasis on community, confidence-building, and shared accomplishment.
Bonus: If cost has been a barrier to pursuing bigger objectives or formal instruction, the Summit Scholarship helps bridge that gap—pairing financial support with mentorship, education, and a powerful network of peers. Applications due by January 31, 2026.
WHOA Travel — Worldwide
- Date: Multiple trips scheduled throughout 2026
- Location: International destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas
- Website: WHOA Travel
Why go: WHOATravel creates women-only group travel experiences designed to make exploring the world feel welcoming, empowering, and fun. These trips balance adventure, culture, and connection, with thoughtfully planned itineraries and a strong emphasis on group dynamics.
Other Events
While not always women-only, these events have strong female participation and are inspiring outdoor stages to be part of in 2026:
- Women Run the Cities (running) – women-focused city runs with 5–16 km distances
- AlUla Trail Race (multi-distance trail running) — historic desert terrain running in Saudi Arabia
- SheJumps Events (outdoor education) — women-focused climbing, skiing, hiking, and leadership programs across the U.S.
- Joe’s Climbing Fest (climbing) — clinics, mentorship, and community for women climbers in the Utah desert
Final Thoughts
2026 could be your year to get out with other women — whether your heart beats for trail running, global hiking adventures, or cultural immersion mixed with movement, these events offer challenge, sisterhood, wild places, and stories that stick with you long after the finish line.
Ready to sign up? Start with Wild Woman Trail Runs and build your outdoor calendar from there.
The Cairn Project
Mobilizing to empower young women in the outdoors through grantmaking.