The Strength of a Woman: 78 Miles Through the Dolomites on Alta Via 1
Women's Trekking in the Dolomites
There's a unique kind of strength found in the heart of a woman. It's not just physical—it's mental, emotional, and deeply communal. I witnessed it firsthand while trekking the Alta Via 1, an 8-day, 78-mile backpacking journey through the rugged Dolomite Mountains, alongside a group of incredible women.
This wasn't just any trek, it was an all-women adventure, led by our fearless guide, a strong Italian woman who expertly navigated us through the terrain, some of which she had never taken before. She wasn't just leading, she became one of us. In fact, she helped create some of our favorite backpacking tutorials. If you haven't seen a video of all of us flexing on top of a mountain, then you need to see the tutorial on how to look pretty for a picture!
From the very first step, this journey was different. It wasn't about racing to the finish or proving individual strength. It was about women supporting women, embracing the challenges together, and proving that no mountain—literal or figurative—is too big for us to conquer.
What to Expect on Alta Via 1: Physical and Mental Challenges
The Trail Difficulty and Daily Distance
The Alta Via 1 is stunning, but it is not to be taken lightly. Each day tested our endurance with steep ascents, grueling descents, and miles upon miles of rocky trails. Our bodies ached, our backpacks felt heavier by the day, and yet, we pushed forward.
Weather Conditions in the Dolomites
We endured through rain and sunshine, and then more rain… and sometimes even across snow drifts. Each new challenge tested us, but also reminded us why we were there—to push our limits and prove what we were capable of.
Mountain Huts (Rifugios) and Trail Amenities
Of course, a few key things helped keep our spirits high: the mountain pastries and coffee at every hut were a lifesaver, and let's be honest—knowing there was wine available all the way through definitely made a woman happy.
Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
And let's not forget the wildlife encounters—we even survived some aggressive roosters. The mountain cows and playful marmots? They were the absolute best.
But it wasn't just the physical endurance or the treats that made this journey special. Some of the most memorable moments were the quiet ones—where we found a peaceful, serene spot along the trail, sat together, and simply enjoyed each other's company. No rush, no agenda—just new friends, a breathtaking view, and a shared meal in the mountains.
The Power of Women's Hiking Groups
How Women Support Each Other on the Trail
One of the most powerful lessons from this trek was how women naturally move through the world together.
On tough climbs and precarious crossings, we didn't just focus on ourselves. We waited. We encouraged. We extended a hand. Unlike some other female trekkers we encountered—who were often left behind by their male travel companions—we stayed and even helped them too. Because that's what this community does. We lift each other up.
Day 7: The Hardest Day on Alta Via 1
Mental Toughness on Multi-Day Treks
By Day 7, we had settled into the groove, but we were coming up on the hardest day yet. Our legs were sore, our energy reserves were depleted, and we still had miles to go. This was when the mental game mattered most.
Embracing the Challenge
Instead of wishing for easier trails, we embraced the suck. We laughed at our aching muscles, found humor in the struggle, and reminded each other why we were there. We were there to challenge ourselves, to grow, and to prove that we could do hard things. We were also in it together, often providing words of encouragement at just the right time.
Reaching the Highest Point: The Reward
But the hardest day also came with the greatest reward. When we finally reached the highest elevation of the trek, we were met with the most breathtaking views—a sweeping panorama of the rugged terrain we had been enduring over the past week. Our spirits soared. We were dancing on the mountaintops, in awe of what we had accomplished and the sheer beauty surrounding us. In that moment, every aching muscle and every challenging step was completely worth it.
Managing the Emotional Journey of Long-Distance Hiking
The Highs and Lows of Backpacking
Trekking is an emotional rollercoaster.
There were highs—the breathtaking views, the small victories after brutal climbs, the shared moments of joy. And there were lows—exhaustion, self-doubt, and the ever-present danger of hanger. (If you don't stay on top of your nutrition, it will sneak up on you!)
Food and Recovery at Mountain Huts
Thankfully, one of the best parts of staying in the mountain huts (rifugios) was the three-course meals every night, including dessert. These meals didn't just satisfy our hunger; they rejuvenated us after long, grueling days on the trail. Sitting together at the table, sharing food, and reliving the day's adventures was exactly what we needed to reset and prepare for the next challenge ahead.
Women's Adventure Travel: Thriving at Any Age
Age Is No Barrier on the Trail
These types of trips bring together women of all ages and backgrounds, each with their own stories, strengths, and reasons for taking on the challenge.
One of the most inspiring parts of this journey was watching three incredible women in their 60s complete the entire trek. One of them was often leading the pack, proving that age is no barrier to strength and endurance.
Another, who hadn't done anything like this in 25 years, was an inspiration to many of us younger women—a reminder that a sense of adventure and determination don't have an expiration date. Seeing these women out there, pushing themselves and embracing the journey, made us all hope that we never lose our drive to keep exploring and challenging ourselves.
Why Choose an All-Women Trekking Experience
The Benefits of Female-Only Adventure Travel
We left the Dolomites different than when we arrived. Stronger. More confident. More connected.
This trek was more than just a hike—it was a celebration of female strength, resilience, and unity. We showed up for ourselves. We showed up for each other. And in the process, we gained lifelong friends, forging connections deeper than we ever expected through the challenges, the laughter, and the shared triumphs.
We walked away knowing, without a doubt, that no mountain is too high when women walk it together.
Written by Kristi Hughes | New Mexico Ambassador & Trip Host
Kristi, a long-time resident of the Four Corners region, finds herself blessed with the diversity of landscapes within a few hours' drive. Her journey to rediscover her love for the outdoors began during her time in Houston with her family, where she realized how much she missed the natural world. Upon returning to New Mexico, Kristi fully embraced her passion for outdoor adventures, embarking on trips with her husband and teenage daughter as much as possible. She aims to be a positive example to her daughter, demonstrating that as a strong woman, one can achieve anything she sets her mind to.
An enthusiastic adventure seeker and nature lover, Kristi is dedicated to sharing incredible outdoor experiences with other like-minded women. Since 2022, she has served as an ambassador with Women Who Explore, furthering her commitment to empowering women in the outdoors. For Kristi, the connections formed on the trails are the most profound journeys of all.
Whether traversing varied landscapes, overcoming fears, or pushing personal limits, Kristi believes in the magic of exploring the outdoors. She cherishes the moments of escaping reality and embracing the beauty of nature, creating unforgettable experiences that resonate for a lifetime.
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