Washington’s Sawtooth range in October means bright golden larches reaching their peak, crisp autumn mornings turning into a warm sunny days, and endless routes to choose from, with of every option setting you up for a stellar day out in the mountains. The set-up for our Sawtooth Backcountry trip couldn’t be better. Oh yeah, and did we mention it’s for women only?
The Sawtooth Backcountry trip was a fitting close to the Aspire season with a spectacular group of women. The combination of delicious meals, connecting with new and old friends, and continually pinching ourselves on the runs due to the sheer marvel we all felt out on the trails was a perfect way to wrap up a summer of running.
Our Women’s only Sawtooth running adventure is set up in a different manner than our other more ‘objective’, point to point trips such as the Wonderland trail or the North Cascade Traverse. Instead, runners meet at base camp on Friday evening to introduce ourselves and connect while sharing a hearty meal together. This also serves as a perfect time to go over a map of the area and give everyone the chance to decide which routes they want to spend their day on. In years past, we’ve offered anywhere from a 15 to 30 miles but a majority of the women this year settled in the sweet spot for an idyllic 23 mile autumn run!
Running through the endless yellow larches, stopping alongside stunning lakes, feeling the burn in the legs and lungs climbing up to high mountain passes that gifted expansive mountain views, it’s no wonder the group was continually ‘hooting’ and ‘hollering’ as they basked in the joy felt moving through such a special place together.
Something special happens on an all women’s trip. We are all there to support one another and enjoy time together on the trails. Our group waited up for everyone at trail junctions, stopped to stand in admiration along the shores of the peaceful lakes and encouraged each other along route. That supportive atmosphere created a feeling of contentment, connection, and belonging while doing what we love most: running in the mountains!
So what brings all the ladies together for this weekend women’s trip? Many have chosen this trip specifically as a ‘weekend getaway’, as a quick escape from the day to day family tasks, a chance to meet like-minded trail running friends, or wishing to feel empowered as a women on the trails. Some want to squeeze in one last long run in the mountains before the weather turns or simply revel in the beauty of running in the mountains in autumn.
The joyful buzz of the trip continued as women returned to the trail head and made their way back to camp. Upon arrival, Aspire camp greeted runners with cold beers and seltzer’s, a spread of salty, fresh and satisfying appetizers, hot backcountry showers, and a fresh, nourishing dinner made with a whole lot of love. Followed up by a cozy night around the camp fire while sharing stories from the trail, the group went to bed feeling all kinds of happy exhaustion from a wonderful day spent running in the mountains.
Waking the final morning, bottomless coffee was prepared along with a big breakfast spread, prepping runners for their return trips home. Some women took down camp and grabbed a quick breakfast before hitting the road, while others took time and savored the slower pace of the morning, huddling up around the backcountry heaters, eating a wholesome breakfast and sipping on the second or even third cup of coffee before exchanging contacts with new friends and saying goodbye.
Check out the course page for more details on the Sawtooth Backcountry Women’s Trip.
Kara Folkerts is a plant powered trail runner, sustainable travel advocate, yoga teacher, and passionate about all things travel, sustainability, health, and outdoor movement. Originally from Canada, Kara has spent the last few years living and travelling in various places across the globe, guiding trips and going on personal expeditions before joining the Aspire crew in 2020. She writes about her experiences and adventures on her blog at www.karafolkerts.com.