Do Lifework Somewhere Outside

Backpacking and Personal
Development Retreat

July 18th-20th, 2025
Vancouver, BC

Reconnect with the true nature of yourself

A 3 day hike through the spectacular BC backcountry, challenging yourself mentally and physically, and enjoying five (million) star accommodation under the stars.

🥾 Embark on a 30km backpacking adventure, hiking and camping beneath towering peaks and alongside alpine lakes
🧭  Master essential backpacking skills - from trip planning and gear use to navigation and wildlife awareness
💡 Dive into personal growth with guidance from an ICF-certified life coach
🌸 Connect with a community of adventurous, growth-oriented women
🌅 Rediscover your inner strength and the wild, untamed version of you

Go outside with trip leader Kendra

Journey into the spectacular mountains of Pemberton, BC’s pristine wilderness. Over three days you’ll trek through diverse alpine terrain - from dense forest trails to panoramic ridgelines - all while experiencing the freedom of carrying everything you need on your back.

You’ll learn practical skills through hands-on experience, such as setting up camp, cooking trail meals, trail navigation and storing food safely in bear country. Throughout the experience, you'll build the confidence and knowledge needed for safe and rewarding backcountry adventures of your own.

This experience is crafted for adventurous souls with a strong fitness foundation and active lifestyle. While no prior hiking or backpacking experience is needed, you should be physically prepared for 3-5 hours of daily hiking with a 20+ pound pack. Whether you are lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or already feel at home on the trail, you’ll find the perfect mix of challenge, learning and mountain magic.

& go inside with life coach Fab

Each day of the retreat will guide you on a journey of self-discovery through reflective practices, workshops and insightful self-work. Through Fab’s tried and true life coaching practices and lifework methodologies, you will reconnect with your true self, and do the work to gain clarity where you’ve been craving it. Fab will ensure you leave the retreat with powerful tools and practices to continue your personal growth journey long after the retreat ends.

Disconnect from our overly connected world and reconnect with yourself & the great outdoors 

Picture your day like this

-Watch the sunrise while sipping hot coffee and journaling
-Centre yourself with a morning meditation in the fresh alpine air
-Trek to a stunning alpine meadow for an intimate lifework session in nature’s cathedral
-Meander back to camp for an invigorating dip in the blue mountain waters
-Share stories and laughter over a hearty dinner and watch the stars light up the mountain skies

What’s Included

The ultimate blend of adventure and personal growth✨

Personal Development

  • ICF certified life coach

  • Pre-retreat lifework

  • Group and breakout coaching sessions

  • Personal development workshops

  • Daily journaling sessions

  • Group meditations

Backpacking

  • Expert trip leader

  • Backpacking permits

  • Personal and communal backpacking gear

  • Backcountry meals and snacks

  • Roundtrip transportation to trailhead from North Vancouver

  • Core skills and confidence in the field

Your Hosts

Fabienne Gordon
Founder, Lifework
Fab is an ICF certified Life coach & founder of lifework on a mission to make the power of life coaching more approachable, accessible and “cool”. For over 6 years Fab has helped 500+ young professionals make the shifts they needed to live the life they always wanted. When she’s not coaching, you can find Fab “somewhere outside” exploring the great BC wilderness.

Kendra Cobourn
Founder, Somewhere Outside
Kendra is the founder of Somewhere Outside where she focuses on helping aspiring and experienced adventurers take outdoor trips safely and confidently. She is a backpacking expert having spent the last eight years backpacking throughout the western United States and Canada. Kendra is Wilderness First Aid certified and a Leave No Trace trainer.

Guest Experiences

Retreat Price

$985 CAD

Retreat FAQs

 

Do I need prior backpacking experience to join?

No prior backpacking experience is necessary. Our retreat is designed to teach first-timer adventurers everything they need to know for safe and confident overnight trips in the backcountry and is led by a backpacking expert.

What gear do I need to bring?

We provide all backpacking gear including tents, sleeping bags and packs. You'll need hiking boots, appropriate clothing and personal items. A detailed packing list will be shared during our pre-trip call.

What if I want to attend by myself?

We warmly welcome solo travelers, and you’ll be in good company—the majority of our attendees join on their own. Our retreats are designed to foster genuine connections, creating a supportive and friendly environment.

What level of fitness do I need to participate?

This retreat is well-suited to those with a solid fitness foundation who are excited by a challenge. While previous hiking experience is not required, participants should be physically prepared to hike a minimum of 3 to 5 hours per day with a 20+ pound pack.

Do I need to share a tent?

Tents will be double occupancy. If you sign up with a friend, you are welcome to share a tent together. Otherwise you will be thoughtfully paired with a new friend to help build meaningful connections during the retreat.

Is this retreat for beginners in personal development?

Absolutely. This retreat is designed for individuals at all stages of their personal development journey. Our sessions are adaptable to meet you where you are, whether you’re new to self-growth or have been practicing it for years.

How many attendees and what is the age range?

We keep our group size intentionally small, accommodating 8 guests. This allows for an intimate experience between guests and retreat leaders. Our retreats generally attract participants between the ages of 25-40, though we welcome all ages!

What kind of meals are provided?

You will be provided with a mix of fresh and dehydrated meals and snacks, all delicious and nutritious. Meals will cater to preferences and dietary restrictions (gluten-free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan, etc).

Where and when should I arrive/depart?

The retreat departs from a drop off spot in North Vancouver on Friday, July 18th at 6:30AM and returns Sunday, July 20th at ~6:30PM. If coming from outside Vancouver, we recommend arriving July 17th and departing late July 20th or the following day.

Interested in future trips?