VENTURE OUT: FEMME BACKCOUNTRY FESTIVAL
This three-day festival is filled with adventure!
Join us for the Venture Out Backcountry Festival, an empowering weekend celebrating women in the backcountry! From Friday, March 21st to Sunday, March 23rd, experience the thrill of touring with friends, participating in educational workshops, and campfires under the stars in beautiful Salida, Colorado.

Hosted by VNTRbirds, this three-day festival is packed with adventure. Hit the skin track for exciting scavenger hunts, fun relay races, and professional-led workshops designed to boost your skills. Connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts around the campfire, share stories, and enjoy s’mores while howling at the moon!

We always welcome femme, transgender + gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in femme-centered spaces.

We respectfully acknowledge that this event is located on the traditional lands of the Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) people. We honor their enduring connection to this land, their history, and their culture. As we enjoy the beauty and resources of this region, we recognize the past and present contributions of the Ute people, and we commit to fostering respect and understanding for Indigenous communities.

Interested but still have some questions? Email us: [email protected]
REGISTRATION:
$200
WEEKEND FESTIVAL:

Monarch Pass, Colorado
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Friday March 21st - Sunday March 23rd
"Join us for an unforgettable weekend of adventure, camaraderie, and empowerment—where every turn on the trail leads to new friendships and unforgettable memories!"
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Empowering women in backcountry sports
  • Learning from experienced women in the industry
  • Meeting new friends who share your passion for exploration
  • Engaging games and a supportive, fun atmosphere
  • Nightly happy hour with Breckenridge Distillery
  • Neon night dance party
  • SO MUCH MORE!

This event is open to both skiers and splitboarders who are comfortable on blue and black ungroomed terrain. Participants must bring proper backcountry safety gear, including a transceiver, shovel, probe, and backpack.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Get Ready for Three Action-Packed Days!
Each day is packed with guided tours, exciting activities, demos, workshops, and happy hour fun! Don’t miss a moment—whether it's rescue drills, a film screening, or a dance party, Venture Out has everything you need to fuel your passion for backcountry adventure. You’ll be stoked to come back year after year!

General Schedule: Subject to change
*check in at Scout Hut each morning or on our social media for daily schedule*
FRIDAY (DAY 1):
  • Participant Check-in starting at 8am @ Scout Hut grab your goodie bag, check the event schedule then carpool up to the pass!
  • Monarch Pass Meetups & Workshops
  • Pallas Splitboard Demos + Massages at the Scout Hut
  • Apres’ with Breckenridge Distillery
  • GIRL WINTER Film Screening + Popcorn & S’mores
  • Buy Your Raffle tickets (for Saturday’s raffle)
SATURDAY (DAY 2):
  • Group Sunrise tour!
  • Monarch Pass Meetups & Workshops
  • Pallas Splitboard Demos + Massages at the Scout Hut
  • Apres’ with Breckenridge Distillery
  • Raffle: Get ready to win some amazing prizes!
  • GLOW Dance Party
SUNDAY (DAY 3):
  • Breakfast at Scout Hut (Don’t miss it!)
  • Relay Race sponsored by Kari Traa (with prizes!) 
  • Monarch Pass Meetups

WHATS UP WITH LODGING?

WHERE DO I STAY?

We recommend staying in Salida to be as close as possible to all the festival action! The Scout Hut (210 E Sackett Ave, Salida, CO 81201) serves as our festival Basecamp, where you can meet up with other participants, get the latest info, and join in on group activities. Staying in Salida makes it easy to access base camp and enjoy the full experience of the festival.

Why Stay in Salida?

While the top of Monarch Pass is about a 25-minute drive from Salida, we encourage everyone to use The Scout Hut as a meeting spot to carpool up to the pass. Not only does it help reduce your carbon footprint, but it’s a great way to connect with other festival-goers, share a ride, and kick off your day together.

Lodging Options:
  • Airbnb & Vrbo: There are plenty of cozy homes, cabins, and apartments to choose from in Salida. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a more social atmosphere, you’ll find the perfect spot.
  • The Amigo (Dog-Friendly!): If you're traveling with a four-legged friend, The Amigo is a fantastic choice. This dog-friendly hotel offers a convenient location and comfortable accommodations. 10% off when you book directly with them. Call +1 (855) 729-0465 and mention VENTURE OUT FESTIVAL!
  • Camping: There are many camping options in Salida and the surrounding area. If you're car, van, or camper camping for this event, we recommend the Poncha Springs Visitor Center.

Book your lodging in town and make the most of your festival experience! 

Looking to connect with other festival-goers before the trip? Join the VENTURE OUT Facebook event to coordinate lodging, carpooling, and more! https://www.facebook.com/share/1EeSPuuxeQ/
“Im so thankful to have participated! It’s been hard to meet other women who want to ski and get outside in the way that I do. I feel lucky to have met ladies like that at the festival! ” - Returning Participant ✨
VENTURE OUT FAQ
Are there any refunds if I cannot join?
All registrations are final and non-refundable. However, tickets are transferable, so you can sell them to a friend if you can't attend!

Do I need avalanche education to participate?
While avalanche education is highly recommended, it's not required to participate in the festival. If you're new to backcountry riding, we strongly encourage you to sign up for one of our VNTRbirds-led tours on Monarch Pass ($25 add on fee). This way, you'll be guided by our skilled instructors who know the terrain and can offer helpful tips and safety advice while showing you around. It’s a great way to build your confidence and enjoy the area safely!


Can I rent avalanche safety gear (Beacon, shovel, probe) with you?
YES! When you register, you can add on avalanche safety gear (Beacon, shovel, probe & pack) for just $50 for the weekend. It’s a great way to ensure you’re fully prepared and safe while enjoying the backcountry! 


I don't have the backcountry equipment yet, do you all have any deals going on?
Evo is offering 50% off backcountry rentals for VNTRBirds Backcountry Festival attendees! Build your rental package with skis, splitboards, boots, skins, helmets, or a full avalanche safety kit.
Reserve with: evo Denver Rentals
Important details:
  • A credit card is needed to reserve, but won’t be charged until pickup.
  • Mention the festival at pickup for your discount.
  • Questions? Contact [email protected].

Fun Tips & Extras:
  • Not sure about creating your own tour on Monarch Pass? No worries! Join a VNTRbirds-led tour on Friday or Saturday ($ small additional fee $). 
  • Got summer vibes? Bring your bike! The trails in Salida are mostly dry and ready to rip, so why not make it a multi-sport weekend?
  • New to Monarch Pass? Check out OnX Backcountry for some killer maps and suggestions to get the most out of your ride: OnX Monarch Pass Map.
HELMETS ARE REQUIRED.

Cancelation policy:
All registrations are final and non-refundable. However, tickets are transferable, so you can sell them to a friend if you can't attend!

All participants will be required to fill out a waiver and a medical history form before the event.

• GENDER NON-CONFORMING WELCOME • LGBTQ+ WELCOME • BIPOC WELCOME •

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