Embrace the magic of winter in the Pacific Northwest and cross country skiing at our winter camp. This women-centered getaway is designed to build confidence, connection, and joy in the snow. Whether you are XC ski-curious and a total beginner, or you are ready to take your classic ski game to the next adventure level, this is the weekend for you!
We will be offering two packages, one for beginners (Classic Camp) and one for intermediate/advanced skiers (Adventure Camp). Professional women ski instructors will be with you every step of the way teaching you new skills and ways to explore outdoors.
Our winter camp invites you to play, learn, rest, and reconnect with yourself, nature and other like-minded women.
The trip will start in Bend on Thursday afternoon with gear pick-up, a group welcome orientation, and an informal dinner meet-up for those who can join. On Friday we will travel together from Bend out to the Elk Lake Resort for the weekend, where we will be spending 3 days and 2 magical nights. The historic resort is only accessible by snowcat, snowmobile, or human powered adventure.
When: 🗓️ March 4-7, 2027
Where: 📍Bend, OR + Elk Lake Resort
Activities: Cross-Country Skiing, Sauna Time, Fireside Chilling, Outdoor Winter Skill Building
Class Sizes: 6 to 1 Participant to Instructor Ratio
Our CLASSIC CAMP is meant for beginners who want to learn how to XC ski or improve their skills.
Day 1 - Thursday: Arrive Bend, OR
Our trip officially begins on Thursday, at 4pm in Bend, OR. You will meet your AdventurUs Trip Leader and Glide Nordic Lead Guide at our local gear shop to ensure everyone has the right gear and it is properly fitted for the weekend.
We will then head to a local food truck pod (it's a Bend thing) at 6pm for the camp welcome and orientation. Here folks can grab dinner and get to know each other.
Day 2 - Friday: Bend to Elk Lake Resort
8am - We will meet at the Peppertreee Hotel where a private shuttle (45 min ride) will take you to meet the snowcat for our ride out to Elk Lake Resort. This is a beautiful ride (hour plus) along the closed Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway.
We will meet for a Winter Skills workshop to get everyone ready for our adventures.
After lunch we will head out for our first ski skills sessions. Check-in will happen either before or after lunch depending on timing. This afternoon/evening the sauna will be available again for some much needed relaxation.
Everyone will come together for dinner. Evenings are open for games, movies, or quiet time. Whatever feels right for you.
Included Meals: Lunch and Dinner at Elk Lake Resort
Included Lodging: Elk Lake Resort
Day 3 - Saturday: Elk Lake Resort
After breakfast, we will head out for another guided skills session. We will then head back to the lodge for a hot lunch and to warm up.
After lunch we will head out for another ski skills sessions. This afternoon/evening the sauna will be available for some much needed relaxation and, for those brave enough, an option to cold plunge in the lake.
Everyone will come together for dinner. Evenings are open for games, movies, or quiet time. Whatever feels right for you.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Elk Lake Resort
Included Lodging: Elk Lake Resort
Day 4 - Sunday: Elk Lake Resort to Bend
After breakfast, you will have the option to head out for one last guided ski session or chill at the resort. Our snowcat transfer back leaves the resort at 11am.
We will be met at the snopark for our private shuttle back to Bend.
Included Meals: Breakfast at Elk Lake Resort
Activity Time: 1-2 lessons / guided experiences per day (4-5 total). Each session will be 2-3 hours.
Terrain: Groomed trails through forests and around the lake. Conditions can be variable depending on weather.
Activities Include: Cross-Country Skiing: Classic / Nordic
Preparation: Beginner-friendly — bring a great attitude, warm layers, and your sense of adventure! This thoughtfully designed camp blends outdoor fun and skill building, with time to rest, connect, and recharge. Whether you’re new to winter sports or looking to refine your skills, you’ll gain confidence on snow and in yourself — surrounded by supportive women and expert women guides.
Our ADVENTURE CAMP is meant for experienced classic skiers who want to improve their skills and add Backcountry skiing (off the groomed trails) to their skill set. Backcountry skills will include traveling up and down slopes, over ungroomed snow, navigating obstacles, and using skins.
‼️PRE-REQUISITE: Part of this experience is skiing in to Elk Lake Resort from Dutchman with your guides. Please see additional info below.
Day 1 - Thursday: Arrive Bend, OR
Our trip officially begins on Thursday, at 4pm in Bend, OR. You will meet your AdventurUs Trip Leader and Glide Nordic Lead Guide at our local gear shop to ensure everyone has the right rental gear and it is properly fitted for the weekend.
We will then head to a local food truck pod (it's a Bend thing) at 6pm for the camp welcome and orientation. Here folks can grab dinner and get to know each other.
Day 2 - Friday: Bend to Elk Lake Resort
8am - We will meet at the Peppertreee Hotel where a private shuttle (45 min ride) will take you to Dutchman Snopark.
This group will then classic ski the beautiful 11 miles downhill along the Cascade Lakes Highway with your guides working on skills along the way. Meeting up with the other group for lunch once you arrive at Elk Lake.
After lunch we will head out for another ski skills sessions. Check-in will happen either before or after lunch depending on timing. This afternoon/evening the sauna will be available for some much needed relaxation and, for those brave enough, an option to cold plunge in the lake.
Everyone will come together for dinner. Evenings are open for games, movies, or quiet time. Whatever feels right for you.
Included Meals: Lunch and Dinner at Elk Lake Resort
Included Lodging: Elk Lake Resort
Day 3 - Saturday: Elk Lake Resort
After breakfast, you will head out for another guided skills session. You will then head back to the lodge for a hot lunch and to warm up.
After lunch you will head out for another ski skills sessions. This afternoon/evening the sauna will be available again for some much needed relaxation.
Everyone will come together for dinner. Evenings are open for games, movies, or quiet time. Whatever feels right for you.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Elk Lake Resort
Included Lodging: Elk Lake Resort
Day 4 - Sunday: Elk Lake Resort to Bend
After breakfast, you will have the option to head out for one last guided ski session or chill at the resort. Our snowcat transfer back leaves the resort at 11am - there is a chance this group might take the 3pm shuttle back. We will know as we get closer.
We will be met at the snopark for our private shuttle back to Bend.
Included Meals: Breakfast at Elk Lake Resort
Note: If we have enough interest, we may be able to also add a Skate session to schedule.
Activity Time: 1-2 lessons and guided experiences per day( 4-5 total). Each session will be 2-4 hours.
Terrain: Groomed and ungroomed trails through forests and around the lake. Snow conditions can be variable and terrain uneven.
Activities Include: Cross-Country Skiing: Classic, Backcountry, (Skate-pending)
Preparation: This Adventure Camp starts with a ski into Elk Lake. This is 11 miles and 3-4 hours of downhill skiing. You should be comfortable skiing this distance on classic skis. Don't let the "downhill" part fool you it can still be challenging.
No backcountry or skate experience is required.
Daily cross country ski lessons with amazing professional women instructors from Glide Nordic (4-5 total over the weekend)
2-Nights Lodging at Elk Lake Resort (you will "add-on" what kind of rooming package that you want at check out - prices will vary)
Meals: All chef prepared meals at Elk Lake Lodge from Day 2 Lunch to Day 4 Breakfast (2 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts)
Shuttle from Bend to Dutchman Snopark on Friday morning and back on Sunday.
Please note: Self-drive and parking private vehicles at Dutchman is not an option
Snowcat to / from Elk Lake Resort and Dutchman snopark.
Note: Adventure Track skis into Elk Lake Resort, but will get a transfer out on Sunday.
Luggage / gear transfers to / from Elk Lake Resort
Sauna access Friday and Saturday afternoon/evening
Pre-trip planning calls
AdventurUs Trip Leader
Airfare and/or transportation to and from Bend, OR
Night 1 (March 4) lodging in Bend
Can be added for those traveling from outside of Bend. Sunday night can also be added.
Gear rental-ski's, ski boots, poles.
We recognize that some of you may have your own gear already, so we have made this an add-on option for those that will need it. A Thursday afternoon fitting session will ensure you have gear that works .
Meals: Dinner Thursday, Breakfast Friday, Lunch Sunday
Alcoholic beverages
Travel Insurance
Gratuity for guides
You’re seeking a supportive and empowering women-centered space to try, or improve, your XC ski skills.
You want to unwind in comfort after days spent exploring snowy trails.
You crave a balance of adventure, connection, and restoration.
You love the idea of an adventure experience where every detail is handled for you.
You’re ready to make memories with an inspiring group of women in one of Oregon’s most beautiful and remote winter settings.
Nestled deep in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, Elk Lake Resort has been welcoming visitors for over 100 years. What began in the 1920s as a rustic getaway for boaters and fishermen has evolved into a year-round retreat for families, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Wilcoxen family built the original lodge in 1921, and the resort quickly became a social hub with sailing regattas, fishing, and hiking. Despite challenges over the decades—from fluctuating lake levels and wildfires to economic shifts and ownership changes—Elk Lake has endured, always adapting while staying true to its roots.
In the decades since, Elk Lake Resort has expanded its offerings and modernized its facilities, while preserving the charm and character that makes it special. Today, guests enjoy everything from cozy lakeside cabins and wood-fired dining to cross-country skiing and snowmobile access in winter.
Elk Lake Resort remains a beloved destination—a place to unplug, recharge, and connect with the wild beauty of Central Oregon.
There are 2 types of lodging:
2 Bedroom Cabins with private and shared rooms
3 Bedroom Houses with private and shared rooms
Each cabin has it's own full bath, a sitting area, and small kitchenette. The houses have the same amenities, but are more spacious with larger common areas.
You will be able to choose the type of room/bed you want and a preference on cabin or house as an add-on when you register (prices .cary depending on type of lodging). The specific cabins and houses will be randomly assigned.
When you register, you can note if you are coming with friends that you want to stay with and we will do our best to have you together.
Recommended Airport : Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is the closest airport and is about 30 minutes away from Bend.
You can also fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) which is approximately a 4 hour drive away - not taking into consideration winter conditions. This option requires driving over mountain passes to get to Bend.
Arrival Flight Recommendation:
Book flights arriving before 2pm on March 4th.
Shuttle Oregon and Enviro Shuttle both provide reliable shuttle options that you can reserve from RDM to Bend. Uber & Lyft can be expensive and unpredictable.
Departure Flight Recommendation:
Book flights leaving after 5pm on March 7th as we will likely arrive back in Bend around 2pm.
If purchasing your airfare prior to the trip being confirmed, we recommend purchasing a refundable plane ticket.
Driving to Bend can be a fun and beautiful road trip with great sightseeing along the way - like Mt. Hood or Crater Lake National Park! Please note: winter driving can be unpredictable and dangerous.
Here are some approximate travel distances and times to Bend by city in regular driving conditions:
Eugene - 130 miles / 2.5 hours
Portland - 160 miles / 3.5 hours
Seattle - 330 miles / 6 hours
Sacramento - 435 miles / 7 hours
San Francisco - 500 miles / 8 hours
Los Angeles- 820 miles / 12.5 hours
Travel is a big commitment — and so is planning, designing, and hosting a trip. So we’ve built a policy that can be flexible for our Travelers, while still protecting the work that our Hosts and Trip Operators do at each stage of the process.
Deposit: Domestic trips require a non-refundable deposit paid at the time you book your trip. 100% of your deposit may be transferred to another trip under the following conditions:
the trip you transfer your deposit to must be departing with one (1) calendar year of the canceled trip; and
the transfer must occur within thirty (30) days of your cancellation date.
Cancellation. If you cancel your domestic trip and decide to not transfer your deposit to another trip, our cancellation policy is as follows:
if Participant cancels a domestic trip 61 days or more before travel: the total booking price will be refunded less a 25% cancellation fee based on the full trip amount;
31-60 days before travel: 50% of the total full trip amount will be refunded;
30 - 0 days before travel: No refunds, no exceptions.
Our cancellation policy ensures the best possible experience for everyone.
We strongly recommend purchasing Cancel For Any Reason coverage as part of your travel insurance policy.
Adventure Travel is exactly that... an adventure. The outdoors can be unpredictable, so our daily schedule may change as needed. If we adjust the plan, it’s always with your safety, comfort, and overall adventure experience in mind. We stay flexible so you can fully enjoy the journey.
Trips require a minimum # of travelers to run. Trips will be confirmed 90 days, or sooner, prior to start date.
We work with local women guides and outfitters to ensure that we are supporting fellow women-owned and led businesses.
Your Lead Guide/Instructor for this adventure is:
Ingrid Granlin
Ingrid Granlin is the owner/operator of Glide Nordic School based in Bend Oregon. She grew up ski racing and exploring the backcountry in Smithers, British Columbia and has taught Nordic skiing in BC, Alberta, California, Oregon and Switzerland. She started instructing in her late teens. Now, with over 25 years experience, Ingrid operates her ski school in Central Oregon, teaching all levels of Nordic skiing in both skate, classic and backcountry. She is a level III certified ski instructor with both the Professional Ski Instructor Association (PSIA) and the Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (CANSI).
All trips have at least one AdventurUs trip leader in addition to our local guides! Our trip leaders are carefully chosen because they embody the heart of who we are and are passionate about getting women outdoors. They are also certified Wilderness First Responders.
Your Trip Leader for this adventure is:
Saveria Tilden
Chief Adventure Officer, Founder, Sparkle Maker at AdventurUs! Saveria (she/her) has a passion for getting women outdoors. She believes that adventure is defined differently by each individual, and that there is adventure in all of “Us”, which is the inspiration behind the name, AdventurUs. Too often there are barriers that keep women from getting outdoors and Saveria wants to remove these barriers.
Saveria has been an educator, coach, and guide in a variety of fields for over 30 years. Over the last decade Saveria has focused on outdoor education, teaching outdoor courses and leading trips for the Sierra Club. She also worked for REI Outdoor School as an instructor, teaching a variety of classes including kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, biking, rock climbing, navigation, hiking, backpacking, and more. Saveria is a licensed guide, certified as a Wilderness First Responder, and a Leave No Trace Master Educator. She lives in Bend, OR with her partner and their adventure pups.