VENTURE OUT: FEMME BACKCOUNTRY FESTIVAL
This full three-day festival is filled with adventure!
Join us for the Venture Out Backcountry Festival, an empowering weekend celebrating women in the backcountry! From the morning of Friday, March 20th to Sunday, March 22nd, 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.

Interested but still have some questions? Email us: [email protected]
EARLY REGISTRATION:
$200
Price goes up December 1st 2025!
WEEKEND FESTIVAL:

Salida/Monarch Pass, Colorado
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Friday thru Sunday March 20th-22nd
"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
  • 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 sponsored tech talks, 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 "base camp" 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
  • Demos + Massages at the Scout Hut
  • Apres’ 
  • Film Screening + Popcorn & S’mores
  • Buy Your Raffle tickets (for Saturday’s raffle)
SATURDAY (DAY 2):
  • Group Sunrise tour!
  • Monarch Pass Meetups & Workshops
  • Demos + Massages 
  • Apres’ 
  • Raffle: Get ready to win some amazing prizes!
  • GLOW Dance Party
SUNDAY (DAY 3):
  • Breakfast at Scout Hut (Don’t miss it!)
  • Relay Race
  • Monarch Pass Meetups
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.
“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 if you can’t make it, you’re welcome to sell or gift your ticket to a friend!


Do I need avalanche education to participate?
Avalanche education is highly recommended but not required to join the festival. If you’re new to backcountry riding, we strongly encourage adding on one of our VNTRbirds-led tours on Monarch Pass ($25 add-on for each tour). You’ll get guidance from skilled instructors who know the terrain, plus safety tips and local insights—an awesome way to build confidence while exploring!

Can I rent avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe)?
Yes! When you register, you can add on a complete avalanche safety kit (beacon, shovel, probe & pack) for just $50 for the weekend. This ensures you’re fully equipped and ready to ride safely.

I don’t have backcountry equipment yet—any deals available?
  • Details coming soon.

  • Where should I stay?
    We recommend staying in Salida, CO to be closest to all the festival action! Our festival Basecamp in downtown Salida — this is where participants gather for updates, group activities, and carpools up Monarch Pass (a 25-minute drive).
    Staying in Salida makes it easy to connect, join carpools, and enjoy the full experience.
    Lodging Options:
  • Airbnb & Vrbo: Cozy homes, cabins, and apartments all around Salida.
  • Camping: Plenty of nearby options! If you’re car/van camping.

Fun Tips & Extras:
  • Nervous about touring alone? Join a VNTRbirds-led tour on Friday or Saturday for extra support ($ small fee).
  • Got summer vibes? Bring your bike! Many Salida trails are already dry and ready to rip—make it a multi-sport weekend.
  • New to the area? Download OnX Backcountry: Monarch Pass Map for routes and recommendations.
  • Want to connect before the festival? Join our VENTURE OUT Festival Facebook Event to coordinate lodging, carpools, and more!
Helmets Required:
All participants must wear a helmet while on the course or riding. Safety first!

Cancellation Policy:
All registrations are final and non-refundable. However, tickets are transferable—so if you can’t attend, you’re welcome to sell or gift your ticket to a friend.

Waiver & Medical Forms:
All participants are required to complete a waiver and medical history form prior to the event.
Inclusive Community
• Gender non-conforming welcome
• LGBTQ+ welcome
• BIPOC welcome
We’re committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive space for everyone to ride, learn, and connect.

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