Holy smokes. We had such a wild adventure!
The mountains were calling and this September, we answered. From September 5th to 9th, a group of adventurous women traded city life for canvas tents, campfire meals, and an itinerary packed with adventure and connection. The weather could not have been more perfect crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and one cozy evening storm that made the sound of rain on canvas feel like nature’s own lullaby.
The Adventures We Took On
Over four unforgettable days, we:
- Climbed the Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay: Clipped in and climbed iron rungs high above Banff, with the entire valley stretching out below us. The sense of accomplishment (and the views!) were unreal.
- Hiked Grassi Lakes in Canmore: A beautiful trail that led us to bright turquoise lakes — the perfect place to catch our breath and take it all in.
- Went Caving with Canmore Cave Tours: We turned off our lamps and made our way through a dark corridor in total blackness and total laughter. It was equal parts spooky and empowering.
- Went Horseback Riding Through Banff: Riding along forested trails with the mountains rising around us felt like stepping into a movie scene.
- Relaxed at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa: After days of pushing comfort zones, we capped off the retreat with hydrotherapy pools and gorgeous mountain serenity.
Let me tell you more though!
Via Ferrata
This was our first adventure together and it really bonded us as a group! Some of our group was hyped and ready, while others were nervous, but got through it with the encouragement and support of the rest of the group. It really proved right out of the gate, that this group would be there for each other, no matter what.
We took a gondola up Mount Norquay and from there our guide showed us the ropes -literally. We did a little test run up the side of a staircase so we were familiar with what we might encounter on the mountain and off we went! Iron ladders, little metal gas pedals sticking out of the rock as your only grounding –it was wild. Then we reached our suspension bridge and no one can really tell you how it feels up there unless you’ve done it. That bridge MOVES under you! We all made it across safely and took a little snack break before we made the trek back down the mountain with our guide.
100%, I thought this one would be the scariest but I loved it so much and I am excited to do it again!!
Grassi Lakes
This is such a popular trail in Canmore, and it’s easy to see why! It’s a beautiful scenic hike the whole way up with a great waterfall photo op on the way. The lakes at the end are so enchanting -and inviting. I had to stop myself from going for a dip!
This was the perfect “rest day” hike for us as it was pretty easy and we took a nice long stop at the lakes to have lunch and take photos.
Some things to keep in mind if you check this one out: It’s busy, but that’s no reason to go un-prepared. Wear proper footwear, bring water, bring a snack and definitely still be bear-aware!
Canmore Cave Tours
Oohhhhh… this one by far was the excursion most of the group was in knots about!! I had done it before so I had ideas of what to expect, but with each guide it’s a little different. I loved watching everyone conquer this one -even if they were afraid the whole group had a blast on this one, and it was by far the one we laughed the most on too.
We spent nearly 4 hours under the mountain, crawling, exploring, learning and encouraging each other –we also took so many photos and videos! How could you not? It’s really a bucket list experience. Some of our guests have unlocked a new passion after this one and some are just happy to say they did it once!
The Spaaaaaaa
Well earned time to relax and unwind! Not that those things need to be earned, but I put this at the end of the trip as a little luxurious reward for all the fears conquered, steps taken, and bonds built. We enjoyed the water circuits and the saunas, ate a great meal together and all slept like babies at the end of the night!
Camp Life and Connection
Our home base was a cluster of canvas trappers tents by the Kananaskis River. We cooked meals together over the fire (our guests are still raving about the food!), swapped stories under the stars, and even braided hair on the shuttle bus between adventures. It was the perfect mix of chill and challenge.
What made this retreat so special was the way the group came together. Each woman had moments of anxiety and moments of triumph, and the support from the group never wavered. As a host, I couldn’t have been prouder — watching everyone encourage each other, face fears, and find joy in the little moments is exactly why I created these retreats.
The Takeaways
Every guest left with something different: a sense of accomplishment, a new friend, a favourite memory to hold onto. There was so much laughter and so many moments of bravery that it’s impossible to pick just one highlight. (Stay tuned, I’ll be sharing some of their quotes and testimonials soon!)
Your Invitation — Next Kananaskis Adventure
The magic of this trip was in the courage, the laughter, and the quiet moments by the fire and we can’t wait to do it all again.
📅 Save the date: September 10th to 14th 2026!
🎟 Join the waitlist: HERE — spots are limited and this one will sell out fast!
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step out of your comfort zone, this is it. Pack your hiking boots and sense of adventure — we’ll see you in the mountains!
THANK YOUS
This adventure would not have been possible –or at least not as amazing without the support of a few incredible businesses:
Baffin Canada
Green Tree Beauty
Parkerview Brews Kombucha
Popeyes Supplements
Canmore Cave Tours
Cult Chocolate
Mutt Hutt Grooming
