Best wilderness adventures for women in Colorado

It doesn't matter if you're 14 or 55, a made-for-the-mountains kind of gal or just plain overwhelmed by all things outdoorsy. If you're looking to sharpen your ski skills, break into backpacking, meet other women, overcome a major life change, or just try something new, there's no better go-to place than The Women's Wilderness Institute.

Since 1998, this nonprofit has been offering wilderness trips, clinics and a slew of events for women and girls in the Rocky Mountains and the deserts of the Southwest.

TWWI has a knowledgeable staff that provides instruction on wilderness living, outdoor skills and backcountry safety to women of all ages and abilities. In short, this gutsy group of gals is not afraid to get their hands dirty and provide the best wilderness adventures for lion-hearted ladies in Colorado. Sign up for classes early, as they fill up fast!

Here are the classes offered by TWWI:

• Mountain Expeditions
• Rock Climbing Courses
• Mountain Biking Courses
• Fly Fishing
• Yoga Retreats
• Creative Courses
• Reflective Retreats
• Wilderness Recovery/Transitions
• Grace & Grit (for women over 45)
• Winter Courses
• Programs for GIRLS
• Build Your Own Courses

With the help of more than 20 foundations, The Women's Wilderness Institute works to make sure their programs are accessible and affordable for all.

In addition, the fee for most courses includes gear, transportation, food, lift tickets, and so on.

For many attendees, these courses turn out to be more than just an outdoor clinic. Here's what some past attendees had to say:

This trip made me stronger as a girl. I learned that I am entitled to my voice and opinion, and that my voice is something that nobody can take away from me.
- Alexis, 14, Girls' Wilderness Program

I learned the beauty of being with a group of women in the wilderness. I saw that we can provide a safe and nurturing environment for each other where we can challenge ourselves to grow, try something new, and learn from each other. I wish more women know how special this experience can be.
- Martha, 43, Green River Canoe Trip

Read about The Women's Wilderness Institute in The New York Times. 

Have you participated in any courses or retreats held by The Women's Wilderness Institute? Post your experiences by clicking on Discuss.

Photo source: www.womenswilderness.org