A Womens Tale – Walking the Talk

As part of the Women’s Issue of Adventure this August, we took a deep dive into the world of women’s tramping and hiking. We reached out to an inspiring and diverse group of women adventurers, from seasoned trekkers to weekend wanderers, to uncover the heart and soul of their journeys. We asked them the questions that matter: Why do they hike? Where do they go to find their solace? And with whom do they choose to share these moments of wilderness?

Their answers revealed not just the physical landscapes they traverse, but the emotional and spiritual ones as well. These stories capture the essence of connection. Each tale is a testament to the enduring power of the trail, where every step taken leads to new discoveries, both outside and within. These are their stories:

Name: Jade Downing

Age30  

Region :

Wanaka at the moment but I’m from Colorado, USA

Content Questions: How many years have you been tramping?

About 10 years

Why do you tramp, what does it give you?

I was introduced to the world of hiking (tramping) when I started university and I was just awestruck by the views. My favorite memories since then were of my tramping adventures and the people I met through it. Trail is the one place that never fails to make me feel at peace and very very happy.

If there has been one amazing tramp that stands out in your mind – can you outline where it was and why it was so memorable?

I love the huayhuash circuit in Peru. I did it 2 years ago with my husband independently. The views from the alpine route were incredible but what made it memorable was the problem solving I had to do. My husband got very sick on the second night suddenly with fever and diarrhea. I got him out of the mountains without calling rescue and we went back and finished the circuit after he was better.

Do you ever feel at risk or disadvantaged being a woman tramper? If so, when?

There have been times where people told me I can’t do it and was discouraged from participating in serious outdoor pursuits as an Asian woman. I have been very disappointed with some of the gear out there where the women’s versions were incredibly subpar in quality and features compared to the men’s version of the same model. Or just the fact of how difficult it is to be a woman in the backcountry sometimes.

Luckily, I have never felt at risk as a woman tramper.

Looking back on your journey, what advice would you give to yourself when you first started tramping?

Probably to trust my own opinions. For example I have over trusted my partner for a long time. From gear choices to abilities, my own partner had not believed in me. But I ended up showing him that my own opinions are valid and my gear choices were sound. I also showed him that I am highly capable of completing technical hikes and lengthy backpacks on my own. We live in a world where most outdoor guides and gear reviews come from men. So subconsciously, I have felt that my opinions were lesser.

What advice do you have for women new to hiking who might feel intimidated?

Set small goals. Work your way up and don’t go on that difficult hike that you are not ready for just because you saw it on instagram. Go with a few friends on a small overnighter and treat yourself to good foods, good company and a good time. Then, try longer and longer trails. :) Hiking and backpacking is for everyone.

You don’t need expensive gear or outdoor specific clothing. You can take a basic backpack retired from carrying books even and rent a sleeping bag from a local outdoor’s program. You don’t even need a stove to go on an overnight hut trip in New Zealand. Pack some sandwiches and have a grand time.

Can you suggest any specific hiking groups or communities to join for support and companionship?

I haven’t found my group or community in New Zealand and I had to create my own in the US. And yes, if you don’t feel like you belong in an existing group, make your own, there will be people who feel the same way. I think the best place to meet people to hike with is on the trail. Don’t be shy to start a conversation with people you meet in huts and exchange some numbers!