Why I Teach Women to Backpack

Hi, I’m Pamela Zoolalian.

I believe every woman deserves the knowledge and skills to feel safe, confident, and self-reliant outdoors—and the freedom that comes from knowing she can make informed decisions for herself.

For more than 35 years, I’ve worked, taught, guided, and adventured in the outdoors. But AdventurHER isn’t about what I’ve accomplished. It’s about what all of that experience allows me to teach you.

I remember the fear that come with that beginner mindset. I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re trying to figure out what you need to know.

 My role is to help make that path clearer—to teach you not only what to do, but why, so you can build the knowledge, skills, and judgment to create adventures of your own.

Experience You Can Trust

For more than 35 years, the outdoors has been my classroom. I’ve backpacked, mountaineered, navigated, taught, guided, competed, designed outdoor gear, and spent years learning how to make good decisions when conditions change.

Today, I bring that experience into every class I teach—so you can learn not only what to do, but why.

I want you to understand enough to decide what you would do—and why.

 The goal is for you to become knowledgeable, capable, and confident enough to trust yourself.

"I am here for your success!" 

How I Teach

I don’t simply teach you what to do on the trail. I teach you how to think—to understand the why, evaluate what’s happening around you, solve problems, and make informed decisions for yourself.

Knowledge builds capability. Capability builds confidence. And confidence creates freedom.

Few of My Adventures Along the Way

35+ Years Outdoor Experience
25+ Years Outdoor Education & Guiding
10 Years National Ski Patrol
Multiple Solo John Muir Trail Journeys
Navigation & Wilderness Skills Instructor
20 Years Technical Apparel Design
Author, AdventurHER Backpacking Handbook & Journal
ESPN X Games Athlete

Today, all of those experiences come together with the knowledge and understand for the outdoors.

Your Adventure Is Waiting

You don’t have to know everything before you begin. You just need the willingness to learn, the right knowledge, and a place to start.

I’ve spent decades gaining the experience. Now I’m here to help you build yours.

Ready to take your next step?