Backcountry Squatters
A network of college clubs dedicated to growing women’s participation, leadership, and representation in the outdoor industry and community
about us
Run by ‘Squatters alumni, this 501c3 nonprofit uplifts women at a pivotal moment in their lives by connecting them in the sisterhood, growth, and empowerment of shared outdoor pursuits.
our chapters
We are opening the door to outdoor opportunities that women have historically been excluded from. With chapters established accross the nation, Backcountry Squatters is rapidly expanding. Look here to find a chapter near you.
join us
By equipping college women with vital lessons from adventure and camaraderie, we bolster future female leaders through a make-or-break time— ensuring more women rise.
on the blog
Planned Parenthood: Debunking the Myths
Our very own ambassador Nina is currently working at Planned Parenthood! Here she teaches us about the badass organization that Planned Parenthood is as it empowers women and men to be in charge of their own bodies.
Thoughts on Being Your Biggest Fan and Putting Yourself First
thoughts on being your biggest fan and putting yourself first One of the greatest realizations I’ve had is that I am my biggest fan and my loudest cheerleader. Hello and welcome to this blog post. I bet you think you’re setting into a casual read on...
Consumerism in the Outdoor Industry
As outdoor athletes, we all care about the environment and are committed to combating climate change, but we often forget the impact our outdoor adventures have on the environment.
Not Idiots
not idiots We are a subspecies of river runners, more akin to lizards than to fish. They say that you’re an idiot if you’re hot on the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon shows all the signs of blistering heat; limited, shrub-like vegetation with thorns to discourage any...
Science in the Arctic
Anna Mounsey spent 45 days at sea in the Arctic taking and processing water samples from various depths to look for Harmful Algal Blooms. Read about her journey.
Badassery, Butterflies, and Brooke
badassery, butterflies, and Brooke It’s important to have personal goals for self-improvement but who or what else do you push your limits for?My close friend Brooke was the first person to call me a badass and at the time, I did not deserve the title. To paint the...
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.
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.
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.
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.