Four Women Proving That Boldness Belongs in the Outdoors
There’s something about the word bold that carries weight. It’s not just about being fearless, it’s about stepping up, pushing through, and doing things even when they feel impossible. For a long time, women have been told that certain spaces like outdoor adventure, science, and extreme sports aren’t for them. That they need to be stronger, tougher, or more experienced to get into the outdoors. But the reality? Women are out here proving that idea wrong every single day.
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating four incredible women who are redefining boldness in adventure, sport, and STEM. They aren’t waiting for permission, they’re taking up space, breaking barriers, and showing others that they can do the same.
So, let’s meet the women leading the way.
Luisa Hendry -@scottishgeologist
Luisa is on a mission to make science more exciting and accessible. As a geologist, science communicator, and founder of Scot Rock Walks, she’s proving that science isn’t just for textbooks, it’s for mountains, coastlines, and curious minds who want to explore the world around them.
But being a woman in STEM isn’t always easy. Geology, like many sciences, has been heavily male-dominated. Rather than letting that hold her back, she’s worked to change how people see the subject and who gets to be part of it.
“One thing that needs to be shattered is the idea that women in STEM ‘lack’ the technical, physical, or leadership skills that men have. This outdated myth assumes we cannot do a job as well as a man, and that’s simply not true.”
With over 500,000 followers, she’s proving that women and girls belong in adventure, exploration, and STEM careers, and that the more we see women leading, the more others will follow.
All while being pregnant! Having just become a new mum to a baby!! And looking after her dog who makes frequent appearances in her geology videos, usually causing some kind of chaos. ROCK ON LUISA!!! It’s safe to say she’s balancing science, storytelling, and an occasional muddy paw print on her field notes.
Caitlin – @caitlin_outdoors24
Being bold in outdoor independence
Caitlin wasn’t always an adventurer. She didn’t grow up with hiking boots or maps. She didn’t think the outdoors was for someone like her.
But when she gave it a chance and joined Venture Scotland, she realised something no one had ever told her—nature doesn’t care where you come from. It doesn’t care how experienced you are. It’s there for you, exactly as you are. That changed everything!
She started hiking, wild camping, climbing mountains, and taking on challenges she never thought she could face. Every summit, every cold morning in a tent, every step further than she believed she could go—it all built something in her that no one could take away.
Now, she’s passing that confidence on, proving that you don’t have to fit a certain mould to belong in the wild. The outdoors isn’t just for “outdoorsy” people. It’s for anyone willing to take that first step.
“The more I went out, the more my confidence and love for the outdoors grew. I used to think this wasn’t for someone like me. I was so wrong.”
Amy – @amys_adventures10
Being bold and building outdoor confidence
Amy has never been afraid of movement. Raised by a professional mountaineer and a long-distance runner, the outdoors wasn’t just part of her childhood, it was in her blood. But even with a lifetime of experience, she still had to fight to be taken seriously.
Whether she was climbing, hiking, or mountain biking, there was always someone ready to assume she needed help. Lost, struggling, in over her head simply because she was a woman.
But here’s the thing. Amy knows exactly what she’s doing.
Rather than letting doubt define her, she’s built her confidence through skill, experience, and resilience. Now, she’s helping others do the same through Adventurehog. Through guided group hikes, online storytelling, and hands-on coaching, she’s breaking down the barriers that make the outdoors feel intimidating, especially for beginners.
“There is nothing wrong with being a beginner. I’m a real advocate of upskilling yourself! It allows you to build experience, grow confidence, and be independent without putting yourself or others at risk.”
Amy proves that adventure isn’t about ego—it’s about learning, growing, and showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable. And if you ever feel completely out of your depth? Just pretend you’re “pausing to admire the view.” Works every time.
Nicola Hobbs- @minimicroadventures
Being bold and building a community
For Nic, adventure wasn’t about chasing records or proving a point. It was about breaking free. After 20 years in London, she needed something that would take her away from the relentless pace of city life and reconnect her with something real.
So, she got on a bike. And kept going.
She didn’t have fancy gear. She didn’t even know how to fix a puncture. But that didn’t stop her. Every wrong turn, every brutal headwind, every moment of doubt—she pushed through. And in doing so, she fell in love with the rhythm of adventure.
Now, she’s the founder of Forest Gravel Cycling Club, a space where women can ride without pressure, without intimidation, and without feeling like they need to “earn” their place. Because for Nic, cycling isn’t about being the fastest or the strongest. It’s about proving to yourself that you can keep going, even when it’s tough.
“There is nothing wrong with being a beginner. I’m a real advocate of upskilling yourself! It allows you to build experience, grow confidence, and be independent without putting yourself or others at risk.”
Nic is proof that you don’t need a perfect plan to start. You just need the courage to begin, the determination to keep going, and maybe a few snacks for the road.
The Bigger Picture
Each of these women is redefining what it means to be bold. But this isn’t just about them. It’s about every woman who has ever doubted herself in an outdoor space, a male-dominated industry, or a new challenge. It’s about breaking down barriers, questioning assumptions, and supporting each other in taking up space, wherever that may be.
If we want to see more women in adventure, cycling, hiking, and STEM, we need to:
⛰️ Create safe, inclusive spaces where beginners feel welcome.
⛰️ Challenge outdated stereotypes about what women can and can’t do.
⛰️ Amplify women’s stories, because representation matters.
⛰️ Make adventure sports more accessible, with beginner-friendly resources and support.
Be bold. Take up space. Try something new.
Over the next few blogs, we’ll dive deeper into each woman’s journey. But for now, here’s the message we hope you take away. Boldness isn’t about being fearless, it’s about showing up, taking that first step, and refusing to shrink yourself.
