wEATHER wARM Up!

TIME TO GET OUT WITH OLD AND NEW FRIENDS 

The Base Camp 

The great outdoors are the ideal setting to nurture the wonder of the great outdoors and to bond with friends old & new. Outdoor recreation is a fantastic way to bond, relieve stress, and support each other in meaningful ways.

Here’s how to celebrate your gal pals and make outdoor recreation an integral part of your friendship — now and all year long.

Outdoor Adventures Are Perfect for Celebrating Friends

Spending time outdoors is more than just good for your physical health; it’s also an amazing way to boost your mental well-being. According to research, being outside reduces stress, improves mood and enhances overall happiness. Doing these things with friends only amplifies these benefits. The social interaction and shared experiences help strengthen friendships and create memories that will last a lifetime.

“Most women forget that we can do more than just meet for drinks, or over dinner. Why not go for a hike, take a pilates class or try out a new hobby”, says Mari Puchal, a sales employee at The Base Camp.  

Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply relaxing under the stars, outdoor adventures offer the perfect backdrop to celebrate the kind of meaningful connections that we all need. 

Fun Outdoor Activities to Share with Your Gal Pals

Hiking and Nature Walks

Hiking is a wonderful way to bond with friends, get active, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you choose a beginner-friendly trail or take on a more challenging route, hiking offers time to chat, laugh, and share meaningful conversations while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

For those who want to get involved in hiking on a regular basis, many cities have women-specific hiking groups. These groups create a supportive and inclusive space for women of all fitness levels to hike together, explore new trails, and share the joys of being outdoors.

FIND A GROUP NEAR YOU:

• Check out local outdoor stores (like The Base Camp) or community centers that may host events.
• Use apps like Meetup or Facebook Groups to discover women’s hiking clubs or nature groups in your area.
• Join organizations like Women Who Hike, or Women who Explore which are dedicated to empowering women through outdoor activities.

Biking Adventures

For a more adventurous way to explore the outdoors, grab your bikes and take a scenic ride through your local park, along a beach path, or on a mountain trail. Whether you enjoy a leisurely ride or an exciting, adrenaline-pumping mountain biking experience, biking with your friends allows for both physical activity and plenty of laughter along the way.

If you're new to biking or want to find a regular biking group, there are many local biking clubs where you can join like-minded individuals and explore new biking routes. 

Local Event: Billings Trailnet Tour de Fleur, Saturday June 7th, Shiloh Conservation Area

Kayaking or Paddle Boarding

If you’re lucky enough to live near a lake, river, or ocean, kayaking or paddle boarding is a fun and serene way to enjoy the outdoors with friends. It allows for a unique, peaceful experience on the water, and it's a fantastic way to challenge yourselves while enjoying nature from a different perspective.

Did you Know? The Base Camp offers inflatable kayaks, paddle boards and pack rafts for sale or for rent

Picnics and Outdoor Dining

Sometimes the best outdoor adventure is a laid-back picnic with your friends. Pack a basket (or Yeti) full of snacks, a blanket, and your favorite drinks, and head to a local park or scenic spot for a relaxing afternoon. It’s the perfect way to slow down, share delicious food, and enjoy each other’s company in the great outdoors.

Yoga and Meditation in Nature

There’s nothing like practicing yoga or meditation outdoors. Find a peaceful spot in a park, at the beach, or in a secluded forest, and engage in mindful movement and deep breathing with your gal pals. The serenity of nature will help you and your friends unwind, reconnect, and strengthen your bonds while nourishing your body and mind.

Many outdoor yoga studios host group classes, and some even offer outdoor retreats. You can also find yoga groups focused on women, such as Yoga in the Park, that hold group classes outdoors.

Rock Climbing

For an exciting and physically challenging activity, rock climbing is an excellent way to bond with your friends and push each other to reach new heights. Many rock climbing gyms offer women-only climbing nights or groups, which can help you build confidence, connect with others, and enjoy some healthy competition.

For all your gear, shop local at The Base Camp or Steepworld Climbing and Fitness, an indoor climbing gym. 

How to Find Groups and Get Involved

Want to make outdoor activities a regular part of your routine? Here are some ways to find local groups and get involved:

Social Media and Meetup Apps: Use apps like Meetup, Facebook, or Instagram to search for outdoor groups near you. You’ll find everything from hiking clubs and yoga meetups to women’s running groups and kayaking outings. These platforms help connect you with like-minded people who love to spend time outdoors

Local Outdoor Stores: Outdoor stores, such as The Base Camp host clinics and other events, which provide the perfect opportunity to meet new friends and share exciting experiences.

Community Centers and Recreation Departments: Check out your local community center or park district for organized outdoor events or women-specific recreational activities. They often run group hikes, fitness classes, or outdoor yoga sessions that you and your gal pals can join.

Volunteer Groups: Consider volunteering for local environmental organizations. Many of them host outdoor events like park clean-ups, tree planting, or trail maintenance, offering a chance to get involved while making new connections with others.

Billings Parks & Recreation: Refresh the Rim and Arbor Day

Billings Trailnet:  Tour de Fleur 

Montana Audubon Center: Check their website for volunteer opportunities. 

Keep the Celebration Going All Year

Gather your gal pals, lace up your boots, and head outdoors to celebrate your friendships in the most fun, adventurous, and meaningful way possible.

More from the Experts at The Base Camp 

About The Base Camp 

The Base Camp is Montana's premier outdoor store, serving the Billings and Helena communities for nearly five decades, providing high-quality clothing, footwear, outdoor equipment, and Montana lifestyle gifts. 

As a locally owned, family-run business passionate about the outdoors and our communities, we are dedicated to fueling the spirit of outdoor adventure and delivering superior service. Our mission is to be your go-to destination for your outdoor pursuits, equipping adventurers with essential gear for any journey. 

Beyond retail, The Base Camp fosters a community of outdoor enthusiasts, inspiring and supporting your love for nature with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Visit The Base Camp – where the spirit of the great outdoors comes to life, and your adventures begin.