We understand that women struggle to step-out of their routines and responsibilities. It is hard for women to hand-off all that they juggle, and to leave the people they provide care for (e.g., children, spouses, parents, siblings, friends etc.). There is little time for adventure, and yet our hearts long for the extraordinary.
The world provides few opportunities to experience genuine escape, and our busy lives leave little room for wonder but there is a call to “arise and come away” our hearts all recognize.
Not a conference or typical women’s retreat; the Arise Challenge is designed to foster a sense of wonder and encourage the release of control. Mystery is an important part of the weekend!
Women are placed in teams of 8-10 and, over a span of three days, they brave the unknown together and push past their comfort zone.
Walking new landscapes, on secret paths and simply follow, listen, and wait is soul-expanding challenge for the body, mind, and spirit. Trust the process and discover what might be hidden from sight.
Come as you are. Come with an open mind and allow the experience to challenge and change you.
July 17-19, 2026
Rocky Mountains, Alberta
Arise, my darling. Come away with me, my beautiful one. For the winter is past, the rain has ended and gone away. The blossoms appear in the countryside. The time for singing has come.
Song of songs 2: 10-12
The Arise Challenge is for adult women (above 18 years old, in Canada). You do not need to be a resident of Canada to participate, but if you are visiting our country proof of travel insurance/medical coverage will be required – and please note, our event is delivered in the English language.
While the Arise Challenge is designed for women to finish, it is not easy. This is not designed as a relaxing retreat in the outdoors. It is an active, immersive experience in the outdoors. The conditions are rustic (i.e., no bunks or hot showers) and the program involves walking considerable distances, with some elevation and the need to carry a daypack.
Fear not! You are stronger than you think, and we will be in this together. Together in the struggle, together in the victory!
The physical aspect of the Arise Challenge is meant to be uncomfortable, but not impossible. It is NOT only for mountaineer athletes! It is designed for the average, healthy woman to be able to complete. However, you will want to prepare by conditioning your body – especially, if your lifestyle has not included regular physical activity and/or you are currently “out of shape”. If that is you, a good place to start is by walking with a pack multiple times a week, eventually making your way up to being able to walk (outdoors, on uneven terrain) for more than 15KMS non-stop.
Only bring what is on the ARISE Canada Packing List.
We do not want the Arise Challenge to result in financial hardship. We provide the food and the means to cook – so, you do not need to provide your own camping stoves or cookware. We encourage women to borrow or share equipment – such as, tents, extra sleeping bags and mats, and headlamps. You will want good outerwear to be prepared for Canadian Rockies where the temperatures can dip and change (i.e., rain gear and a warm jacket), a good-fitting pair of hiking shoes and a backpack suitable for day use. These things do not need to be new, technically advanced and expensive; just suitable.
Jewelry and make-up are not needed on the Arise Challenge.
You will be asked to give-up your watch, cell phone and other personal electronic devices (e.g., fitness tracker) to provide a distraction free weekend!
Mystery is an important element of the Arise Challenge; we do not disclose the event location. Registered participants will receive instructions from ARISE Canada prior to the weekend; this will include where to show-up and when. Teams will have the ability to connect prior to the Arise Challenge and may choose to coordinate travel to and from the event. ARISE Canada does not arrange for individual travel to the Arise Challenge location, nor does the event fee cover individual travel needs.
Yes!
Women can register as individuals or as a group. During the registration process, women have the option to list the names of friends they wish to join on the Arise Challenge. We form teams of 8-10 women based on groups/friends first, then based on where women live. If your group is less than ten, we will combine groups to make a complete team.
If you do not list a group/friend, we will assign you a team.
Many women complete the Arise Challenge without a group/friend. Fear not! Coming alone makes for a powerful experience, as new friends – even sisters are to be found in the wilderness.
Not at all!
Everyone is welcome on the Arise Challenge! There is something of value to be found in the wilderness, for believer and non-believer alike. All we ask of participants is to keep an open mind and respect for others.
