Trailblazing Together

Hi everyone! Lila here, Programs Director at Backcountry Squatters — and I can’t believe I’m already wrapping up my first year in this role! It’s been such an incredible year across the organization. We launched two brand-new chapters at Cal Poly and Ohio University, and every chapter across the country grew in impact, reach, and range of activities and adventures. Most importantly, chapter members grew as leaders, built meaningful connections, and gained confidence in the outdoors.

Here’s a look back at some of this year’s highlights from each chapter:

Montana State University: Our very first chapter located in Bozeman, MT continues to be a huge supporter of the overall nonprofit. One highlight was a backpacking trip to Hyalite Lake — after an amazing hike, the group shared tacos and played get-to-know-you games around a campfire. This chapter ventured into backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and XC skiing this winter. They also hosted a speaker event on How to Work in the Outdoor Industry.

University of Maine: One of our original East Coast chapters, this Orono, ME, Squatters community has a tight-knit feel and always finds creative ways to get outside. This spring, a group of eight tackled a one-night, 14-mile backpacking trip in the Bigelow Mountains full of adventure and laughs. In February, they headed to Acadia National Park for a coastal hike followed by an icy polar plunge. Talk about embracing the seasons!

University of Utah:This chapter in Salt Lake City is full of senders, these squatters are always trying a new outdoor sport! Thanks to a grant from Snowbird, they embarked on a canyoneering trip to Robins Roost Canyon, choosing some challenging and fun routes. Other events included backcountry skiing, fleece hat-making nights and a trail run and cleanup volunteer event.

UC Santa Barbara: In sunny Santa Barbara, CA, this large chapter takes full advantage of its coastal home. Highlights this year included a hike to the Gaviota Wind Caves, a surfing and spikeball day, and a camping trip at Pismo Beach during the Monarch Butterfly Migration. Whether on the beach or on the trail, this crew keeps the stoke high and is always catching a beautiful sunset over the Pacific!

Westminster University: Small but mighty, this Salt Lake City chapter is especially passionate about climbing. Their weekly climbing nights are a core part of their community, along with other events such as an outdoor climbing trip, a queer climb night, and a craft and repair night. These members come together often, and have built a wonderfully strong and supportive space on their small campus.

CU Boulder: One of our largest chapters, the Boulder crew keeps the calendar packed with fun and meaningful events. From skiing in funky outfits to climbing 14ers and leading yoga at Chautauqua Park, they know how to mix adventure and community. They also run their own mini-scholarship, awarding REI gift cards to individuals who fight stereotypes, advocate for environmental justice, or work towards social change in their communities. This year they also hosted two engaging talks on How to Mitigate Climate Change and Queer Experiences in the Outdoors led by a professor and PhD student.

Utah State University: Our Utah State chapter in Logan, UT does it all, even in the face of adversity. They were featured in their school paper for their resilience during a time when DEI initiatives are under attack on their campus. Highlights from this year included a White Pine backpacking trip with 17 participants, an inclusive belay certification event, university volunteer work, climb nights, craft nights, and an Earth Week clothing swap. They are truly a chapter that leads with purpose and heart.

St. Lawrence University: This chapter in Canton, NY, was relaunched this fall by a dedicated group of young student leaders determined to keep the Squatters community alive on campus. Since their revival, they’ve hosted walks on campus trails, craft nights, hikes, and snowshoeing trips. Looking ahead, they’re excited to expand into overnight adventures next year!

Cal Poly: Launched this fall, our Cal Poly chapter has brought a fresh wave of energy to central California. As another one of our coastal chapters, they’ve hosted unique events like tidepooling, surfing, and a beach cleanup in partnership with the University’s Surfrider Club. On land, they’ve explored road biking, yoga, and camping. We’re thrilled to see this chapter thriving already!

Ohio University: Our newest chapter in Athens, OH, launched this spring with a team passionate about building an inclusive outdoor community in the Midwest. While they haven’t been around long, they’ve already hosted events like stargazing, a camping trip, yoga sessions, and craft nights. We can’t wait to see where they go from here!

Beyond the chapters, it’s been a huge year for the Backcountry Squatters nonprofit. We launched our Chapter Grant Program, which funded an outdoor climbing trip for beginners at the University of Utah chapter. It also provided funding for Wilderness First Aid certifications for University of Maine leaders. We hosted a Backcountry 101 Webinar with Weston, giving members across the country an introduction to backcountry skiing and riding. We also launched the Alumni Foundation and provided DEI training for all chapter leaders, helping us grow into an even stronger, more inclusive organization. Looking to next year, we’ve got our sights set on expanding chapters into the south, northeast, and maybe even Canada!

This year has been one for the books, full of growth, adventure, and connection. I’m so grateful to all our chapter leaders, members, supporters, and donors who made it possible. I can’t wait to see what next year brings!

XOXO, Lila

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