Empowering Tomorrow’s Outdoor Leaders: Backcountry Squatters

Backcountry Squatters is a nationwide coalition of college clubs committed to fostering participation, leadership, and inclusivity among women and gender-queer folks within the outdoor industry and community.

about us

Run by ‘Squatters alumni, this 501c3 nonprofit uplifts women and gender-queer folks at a pivotal moment in their lives by connecting them in the kinship, growth, and empowerment of shared outdoor pursuits.

our chapters

We are opening the door to outdoor opportunities that women and non-binary folks have historically been excluded from. With chapters established accross the nation, Backcountry Squatters is rapidly expanding. 

join us

Your support helps shape the next generation of resilient, empowered leaders. Together, we can make a difference, creating a more inclusive, resilient, and environmentally conscious future.

on the blog

5 Tips for Nurturing your LDF

5 Tips for Nurturing your LDF

Long-distance friendships take effort, but they’re so worth it. From silly vlogs to commuter calls, shared challenges, and showing gratitude, these tips will keep the love alive no matter the miles. 💛

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Understanding Your Fertility: What Everyone Should Know

Understanding Your Fertility: What Everyone Should Know

Understanding your reproductive health is essential, especially when it comes to fertility. In this blog post, one of our board members reflects on their experiences working in Reproductive Endocrinology and shares key insights on fertility factors, treatment options, and what everyone should know about family planning.

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Ice Climbing w/ Jaime

Ice Climbing w/ Jaime

Jaime was a recipient of the 2023 Fall scholarship for outdoor education and completed an Ice Climbing course in British ColumbiaWater ebbs and flows, collects memories and emotion as we interact with different facets of water - as fluid, as ice, as snow crystals....

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What our community says:

From the beginning this movement has never been about how fast we can ski, how hard we can climb, or how far we can run–it has always been about pushing the boundaries of what women perceive as possible for themselves in outdoor culture, and in-turn, society. Through my own experience with Backcountry Squatters, I’ve found a meaningful sense-of-place in my community and have gotten to do so alongside women with an array of interesting backgrounds and stories–an experience I believe every woman should get the opportunity to have.

-Colleen

Montana State University

The Backcountry Squatters were a pleasure to partner with for avalanche education. The turnout for the classes was always high and the women were excited to learn. It’s great to work with a club that is eager to offer educational opportunities, as well as fun experiences.

-Nina

Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center Education Coordinator

I am always inspired by the women I have met through Backcountry Squatters. This community has introduced me to strong, confident, and amazing women who all share a collective enthusiasm for the outdoors. By maintaining a supportive atmosphere to pursue unique goals and have fun doing it, ‘Squatters has helped me build confidence in the mountains, on the river and even in school. 

-Anna

Montana State Univerity

I got involved with the Backcountry Squatters  at DU when it first got up and running because I wanted to not only inspire girls to join the outdoor community but also help other like-minded girls to find more gal pals to go get after it with. That’s why it has been so important to me: because we need more girl support in the outdoor community and an inclusive environment where we can grow and learn from each other.

-Avi

University of Denver

WHO WE ARE

Backcountry Squatters is a vibrant community that empowers college women and non-binary folks at a pivotal moment in their lives. We are dedicated to fostering growth, leadership, and kinship through shared outdoor pursuits.

Our vision propels a new generation of leaders to thrive through college and beyond, making a lasting impact on the world. With a nationwide network of clubs, we prioritize community, leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion, education, and outdoor recreation, ensuring everyone can access the transformative power of the outdoors.

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