Whether you are a beginner hiker looking for tips on getting started or an experienced trail blazer with more than 5,000 miles under your belt, the Trail Dames Summit is for you. 

An accepting and nonjudgmental organization, the Trail Dames welcome women of all abilities to grow individually and together at their hiking and backpacking conference this summer, taking place in Cullowhee, N.C. on June 26-28.

Anna “Mud Butt” Huthmaker started Trail Dames in 2011 after her own experience hiking the Appalachian Trail. Seeing the community of hikers on the trail, she started planning a conference that would bring together women from across the country to share in a love for the outdoors.

“I thought of warmer days, sunny skies, and the laughter of women ringing out over the trail,” Huthmaker said.

This year’s conference will feature speakers, clinics, hikes, and more. Listen to the experiences of