JOIN US ON THIS FULL MOON BEGINNER FRIENDLY BACKPACKING RETREAT!

TRIP INFORMATION:

Cost:

$495 | $100 non-refundable deposit

Personal gear (tent, mat, chair, headlamp) available to rent for additional fee.

Trip Details

Just over the hill from Silicon Valley lies a majestic redwood forest tucked away in a serene canyon in the Santa Cruz Mountains, ready for us to explore. Portola Redwood State Park park offers a tranquil environment in a lush forest of towering coast redwoods, moss-covered trees, and vibrant ferns. The park is known for its peaceful and less-crowded atmosphere compared to other redwood parks, which makes it a great place for a quiet nature retreat. This trip is ideal for women who want to experience backpacking without the hassle of logistics and permits. We handle all the behind-the-scenes details, so you can simply show up and enjoy the adventure.

The Hikes

Backpacking:

~3 miles (~1,000 elevation) to our campground on Day 1

~3 miles (~1,000 elevation) from the campground to the trailhead on Day 3

Day Hike: ~6-8 miles (900 elevation) to and from Peter's Creek Redwood Grove - a remote, old-growth redwood canyon filled with towering coast redwoods, dense ferns, and a quiet, untouched feeling that makes it one of the park’s most rewarding backcountry destinations

What to Expect

You can expect to connect with other outdoors-loving women while enjoying gourmet camp meals, learning Leave No Trace principles, spending meaningful time in nature.

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

This trip is for novice to Intermediate backpackers able to hike 3 miles with a 25-lb pack. A training plan will be shared to help you prepare.

Timing & Transportation

We'll meet at the park headquarters parking lot in the late afternoon on Day 1. We suggest carpooling and are happy to help coordinate. Our trip will end at our starting point by Noon on Day 3.

Our Food

We’re passionate about great food and strive to bring a gourmet touch to our trips. Our meals focus on organic, locally sourced and most dietary needs can be accommodated (gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan included). We prioritize bold, satisfying flavors, women’s health–focused nourishment, and protein-rich meals that fuel both adventure and enjoyment. Outside of meal time, we provide a variety of fruits and snacks to keep you going throughout the day.

Campground Amenities

Picnic bench, food storage container and possible pit toilet

Carpooling

We suggest carpooling when possible and are happy to help coordinate.

Making a Difference

We’re proud to donate 10% of proceeds from this retreat to Sempervirens Fund who have been protecting redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 1900. By joining us, you’re not only treating yourself to an unforgettable outdoor experience - you’re also helping create lasting impact. Let’s adventure with purpose!

The Redwoods

Spending time in redwood forests has been shown to lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and enhance mood...benefits linked to the calming effects of phytoncides and the sensory immersion of nature. Forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku, has been shown to enhance mental clarity, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and boost immune function by encouraging mindful, sensory engagement with the natural environment.

The Guides

Led by She Hikes Too founders, we're passionate about the outdoors and women's wellness. Our mission is to empower women to discover their own adventure while ensuring your safety and fun in the outdoors.

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What past campers are saying:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Zoe, CA

"The balance of camping/hiking and not having to worry about anything was ideal for me! The meals and company were amazing and engaging, and the hike was challenging but peppered with beautiful vistas and also had some really fun caves!"

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Diana, CA

"I loved the sense of community and the opportunity to be alone. The food was great. Your help with the equipment was great. The site was perfect! The size of the group was great - any bigger and it may have been less fun.
You guys really have this down, and I loved every minute. Thanks again."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Laura, CA

"I was SO impressed with the food, how healthy and delicious it was, especially for camping! Maria was truly prepared and incredibly knowledgeable, and so accommodating to everyone's levels and needs. I already can't wait until the next trip I can attend!"

See more reviews here!

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Payment Schedule

$100 deposit per person is required to secure your booking. Deposits are non-refundable. The final payment is due 15 days prior to the start of the trip. Each booking will be finalized once required forms and payments are received.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

She Hikes Too reserves the right to cancel a trip if the number of sign-ups is insufficient to make it financially feasible for us to operate, or due to unforeseen circumstances (such as extreme weather, fire, smoke, road or wilderness closure). In the event She Hikes Too cancels a trip; you will receive a full refund. She Hikes Too is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by you in preparing for the trip, e.g. transportation costs, gear, etc. If you cancel more than 7 days of the trip start date, all but $100 (security deposit) will be refunded. If you cancel within 7 days of the trip start date, there is no refund.

We understand that certain circumstances such as death of a family member, change in health status, exposure to COVID-19, or loss of employment happen, and we may make exceptions to our refund policies on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us if you have a unique circumstance and would like to discuss your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're planning to register for a trip, please take a moment to review the FAQs on our website! There's a lot of helpful content there that could impact your plans, so be sure to check it out before completing your registration. Thank you!

Trip Registration

We’re excited to be partnering with WeTravel for our booking and payment system for this trip. Once you sign up, you’ll receive a confirmation email via the WeTravel platform. She Hikes Too will then reach out with detailed information about your adventure.