FLORENCE – Several local women who are outdoor enthusiasts have helped form a group sponsored by the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area that will host workshops and hikes for other women.
“The League of Outdoor Women was created for women, by women who have a love for nature and the outdoors,” said Carrie Crawford, MSNHA executive director.
“Our goal is to provide all women with the skills and knowledge to have the courage and eagerness to explore the outdoors around them,” added LOW instructor Sarah Harbin. “We aim to provide a relational and safe space while offering instruction in wilderness safety, backpacking and camping and understanding the basics of nature.”
Hikes & workshops include “Plant Identification and Map Reading,” Aug. 18, at Shoal Creek Preserve; “Car Camping 101 and Wilderness First Aid,” Sept. 15, at the University of North Alabama’s East Campus with a hike at Wildwood Park; “Accessories and Backpacking 101,” Oct. 6, Alabama Outdoors with a hike at Sipsey Wilderness; and an overnight hike at Cane Creek Canyon, Nov. 3-4.
“The best part about LOW is that you don’t have to fit into the mainstream ‘outdoor culture’ in order to participate. Our program is designed for those women with even the most novice of skills,” said Bethany Green, a LOW instructor.
Additional instructors include Summer McCreless and Lydia Rodriguez.
Hikes and workshops are $20 each, with the overnight hike at $25. To register and for more details, visit the League of Outdoor Women website at https://www.leagueofoutdoorwomen.com.
Media Release/Cathy Wood, media coordinator & grants administrator/Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area
