5 organizations empowering women outdoors

The outdoors should be a place where everyone feels welcome, yet barriers still exist for many women and girls. That’s why women-focused organizations are so important — they’re creating opportunities and building supportive communities that help women feel empowered, on and off the trail. 

For Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating five organizations making history right now. ExpertVoice is proud to partner with these groups, helping members access gear and knowledge to support their work.  

Discover how these inspiring women-led organizations are reshaping the outdoors, meet the ExpertVoice members driving their missions forward and explore expert-approved gear picks from several women-powered brands. 

1. Black Girls Do Bike

For many women of color, cycling can feel like an exclusive space — lacking representation and support. Black Girls Do Bike (BGDB) is changing that by building an inclusive, nationwide network where women and girls of color ride together, build confidence and share skills.

With chapters across the U.S., BGDB offers group rides, mentorship, and education to create a welcoming cycling community. ExpertVoice ambassador Brooke Goudy was formerly the co-leader of the Denver chapter and remains an active member, inspiring more women to take up mountain biking.

“It is important to create spaces for women because there are not [enough] places that we can show up and feel safe to be our unapologetic, authentic selves. There is something special about trying something new and hard next to someone who understands the world like you do. It’s less intimidating being coached and cheered on by a group of women who share your fears, insecurities and experiences.”

“People come for a ride and leave with a new community,” Brooke continues. “It’s not all about cycling — it’s about giving people a place to belong, to be themselves, and to find joy. Cycling is just the vessel to get there.” 

Find your local BGDB chapter >

2. SheJumps

SheJumps was born from a passion to get more women and girls outside — starting with snow sports. Growing up, founder Claire Smallwood discovered the mountains through a school ski program. She launched SheJumps to create similar opportunities for women and girls.

By empowering women to explore and lead in the outdoors, we not only create opportunities for personal growth but also inspire future generations to see themselves as capable, adventurous and strong.” 

Today, SheJumps offers nationwide programs and events in skiing, snowboarding, climbing, and mountain biking, providing women and girls with opportunities to learn, connect and explore. The organization also offers scholarships and free or donation-based programs to remove barriers to participation.

The impact? A ripple effect of empowerment. Many participants gain confidence, then bring their skills back to their communities — creating affinity spaces, mentoring others or stepping into outdoor leadership roles.

“We’ve watched women transform from beginners to experts, from participants to mentors, proving that access and support don’t just benefit individuals but strengthen entire communities. It’s incredible to see how these opportunities spark long-term change and a more inclusive outdoor culture.”

Check out SheJumps’ events in your area >

3. Women’s Wine Hiking Society

Founded by ExpertVoice members Angelique Fish and Cindy Vance, the Women’s Wine Hiking Society (WWHS) creates a welcoming, social, and fun space for women to explore the outdoors — especially those who may not see themselves in traditional adventure culture.

With hikes, backpacking trips, and weekend getaways across ten states, WWHS encourages women to explore at their own pace — no pressure, just good company and the joy of being outside. While each gathering has a drink theme, like wine or a cocktail, drinking is always optional. As Angelique explains, “The ‘wine’ aspect simply adds a fun, social element, making outdoor activities feel approachable without the pressure of being a hardcore athlete.”

Media and outdoor brands often ignore women 40+ in adventure storytelling, many women in that age range feel they’ve aged out of adventure culture or lack the confidence to participate. It’s important to create outdoor opportunities where women can feel welcome and supported.” 

But WWHS is more than just wine and hiking. Angelique has seen its impact firsthand — helping members heal, rebuild and rediscover their strength through life’s transitions. “When women are supported in the outdoors, they don’t just learn to hike or backpack — they learn to trust themselves, push past doubt and embrace adventure in ways they never thought possible.”

Become a “wine hiker” > 

4. Sisterhood of the Outdoors

Hunting and fishing have long been male-dominated sports, but Sisterhood of the Outdoors is working to change that. Through guided trips and hands-on experiences, Sisterhood of the Outdoors helps women of all skill levels learn to hunt, shoot and fish, or refine their skills. By creating these opportunities, Sisterhood of the Outdoors supports the next generation of women hunters and anglers, strengthening female representation in these sports.

Join the Sisterhood of the Outdoors’ next adventure >

5. Trail Sisters

Dedicated to making the outdoors more equitable, Trail Sisters is focused on increasing women’s participation, representation and leadership in trail running. From training programs and gear guides to in-person group runs and races, Trail Sisters helps more women feel confident hitting the trails and build a more inclusive trail-running culture.  

Learn more about Trail Sisters >

Get involved & join a team 

Are you part of one of these organizations or another outdoor group? Make sure to add your team to your ExpertVoice profile to unlock more brands and exclusive deals. And if this article has inspired you to get involved, don’t forget to add your new team when you do.