2023: Building Community
Reflection
2023 was a year of incredible growth and connection for Natural Freedom! We hosted 23 events and workshops, from snowshoeing and skating to fishing, hiking, climbing, car care, foraging, and even our second annual Yeehaw Half Marathon! Thanks to YOU, our amazing community, we impacted approximately 350+ people creating unforgettable experiences and fostering a love for the outdoors.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated and to our incredible brand partners for their support. We have big dreams for the future and can't wait to continue this journey with you all!
Life Drawing
Life Drawing
Life Drawing
Our Life Drawing Workshop at Grateful Gift Shop was a wonderful evening! Led by @wouldbenudenotto, participants enjoyed a creative session with wine and inspiring models. Thanks to everyone who made the event so special!
Yeehaw Half
Life Drawing
Life Drawing
Our first Yeehaw Half was a huge success! 55+ runners tackled Whistler's 21.1km course, many completing their first half marathon.
Thanks to @jenny_mc's training plan, our amazing volunteers, and sponsors @lululemon, @gibbonswhistler, @organikahealth, @moonjuice, @kikanco.co, and @wedrinkt, the event was unforgettable!
Foraging
Life Drawing
Herb Hangs
Our foraging workshop, led by @saraspectrum, taught participants about chanterelles, boletes, and hedgehogs. @kikanco.co provided a nourishing reishi cacao elixir and a miso butter chanterelle gnocchi recipe. @foliaherbals shared mushroom treats. A fun and educational experience for all!
Herb Hangs
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Herb Hangs
Our Herb Hangs workshop explored TCM and immune-boosting herbs. 12 participants learned about Yin and Yang while enjoying tea and a collaborative discussion. Attendees received a tote bag, handmade soap and incense, and workshop materials.
Take Care of your Car
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Our winter car care workshop covered a full winterize service and how to prep vehicles for Sea to Sky winters. The small group format allowed for in-depth Q&A with specialists at SMD Automotive Whistler. Thanks to Jim, Sammy, and @shanicesamaria for leading, and @lordcoparts for providing products and gift cards.
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Take a Hike - Highnote Trail
Our Take A Hike on Whistler Mountain was a beautiful experience! 27 women hiked the High Note Trail with stunning views. Thanks to everyone who joined, @gretadoppp for the warm-up/cool-down, @ki__ar_a for the photos, and @whistlerblackcomb!
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Our Go Fish series highlighted the beauty of nature and the thrill of the catch. From our lake fishing trip to three river fly fishing events, we were inspired by the passion and determination of our participants. We're grateful for the shared excitement and learning experiences. Thanks to everyone who joined us!
Take a Climb
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Our intro to outdoor rock climbing event with Mountain Skill Academy in Squamish was a fantastic experience! Participants learned about equipment, safety, knots, belaying, movement skills, and more from an ACMG certified female guide. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful setting and the opportunity to try climbing. Thanks to all who joined!
Take a Hike - Grouse Grind
Go Fish - River & Lake Edition
Take a Hike - Grouse Grind
As a group of 25 women we hiked the Grouse Grind on @grousemountain then had a social with snacks and drinks at the top of the mountain followed by the most beautiful restorative flow led by @gretadoppp.
Take a Skate Series
Take a Skate Series
Take a Hike - Grouse Grind
Our TAKE A SKATE series was a hit! Each meet up grew and grew totalling 35+ people at some meetups. 8 events brought together a vibrant skating community, and we even launched our own skateboard!
Huge thanks to our sponsors: Herschel, Rip Curl, Nonny Beer, Ocaso, Legends Haul, Formula Fig, and Landyachtz.
Take a Snowshoe
Take a Skate Series
Take a Snowshoe
Our second ever event 'Take a Snowshoe' was a success! We explored the beautiful Ancient Cedars trail with @tagwhistler, learning about the land and enjoying the company of amazing women. Thanks to our snack sponsors @nomz, @loveyourguts, and @healthyhippocandy, and to @gibbonswhistler and @blackspub for a fantastic après.