Every woman’s journey into the outdoors is uniquely her own. For some, it begins with a simple walk in a local park; for others, it’s boarding a plane to hike halfway around the world. Some grow up with an innate love for nature, while others discover it later in life, perhaps in retirement when they finally have the time to slow down and soak in the peace of the outdoors.
At Adventures in Good Company, we’ve seen how every step, whether a small first hiking outing or a bold leap across continents to check a trail off a bucket list, can become a milestone worth celebrating. These moments remind us of what women can achieve when they embrace the outdoors, building courage, determination, and the lasting power of community.
Milestone Stories We’ve Shared Along the Trail
We’ve had the fortune of celebrating so many milestones with women over the years, and it’s in these moments that our purpose and mission come full circle. Each milestone, whether a lifelong dream fulfilled, a first-time experience, or a deeply personal achievement, reflects the spirit of adventure and the strength of community we cherish at Adventures in Good Company. These are just a few of the countless stories we’ve been honored to witness, and the list could go on and on.
50th State Checked off
One of our Very Important Adventurers (VIAs), Donna, reached a remarkable milestone with us in 2025, crossing off her 50th state during our Alaska: From Fairbanks to Anchorage trip. While many of the other travelers knew about this special achievement, our AGC guides took the celebration to the next level. They surprised Donna with a cheesecake decorated with the outline of Alaska and the number “50,” a sweet and thoughtful tribute to her dedication to exploration. It was a moment filled with joy, community, and the spirit of adventure we love to celebrate.
A Journey Through Every National Park
At 68, Elaine accomplished a goal decades in the making, visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks, finishing her journey with Adventures in Good Company in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Her love of the National Parks began with childhood road trips to Shenandoah and only grew stronger with every park she explored. That passion eventually led her to take to the road full-time in her RV, charting her own course across the country one park at a time. Along the way, AGC trips helped build her skills as a solo traveler. “AGC trips were what built my confidence and resilience,” she shared. She added that traveling with us always felt like a luxury: “With AGC, I just show up and know I’m in good hands.”
Elaine’s milestone is a powerful reminder that any dream is possible at any age. Her story also shows the transformative power of nature, leaving her more confident in herself than ever before.
Taking the Plunge: First-Time Scuba
On our Belize trip this year, Sharon decided it was the perfect time to try something new—scuba diving. With encouragement from her AGC guide, calm seas, and the world’s second-largest barrier reef just below, she took the plunge. “Initially, I was a bit nervous. But after, I was so glad I did. I love the water, and immersing in it was great!” she shared.
Describing the experience as “like being in space,” Sharon found joy in adding scuba to her list of water adventures, alongside kayaking, snorkeling, and even night paddling. Her story is a reminder that the right moment, the right place, and a little encouragement can turn nerves into one of life’s most unforgettable milestones.
60th Birthday in the Redwoods
Eve chose to celebrate her 60th birthday with a gift to herself: our Wonder and Wellness in the Redwoods trip. She first heard about it from an AGC guide during the Island Hopping in the Greek Islands trip and was instantly drawn to the idea of the historic Requa Inn, tide pooling, forest bathing, and hiking among the towering trees.
Standing under the Redwoods canopy on her birthday felt surreal: “Northern California. Amongst the Redwoods. Along the Klamath River. Celebrating a milestone birthday—I considered myself lucky to be under the canopy of these magnificent and stoic trees,” said Eve.
The celebration was made even more special by her travel companions and guides. After a day of hiking, watercolor painting in the garden, and sharing favorite moments together, the group surprised Eve with two of her favorite cakes, strawberry and champagne, thanks to her guide Claire.
“Celebrating my 60th in grand style was the perfect ending to an already perfect trip. Life is short, do it for yourself and embrace every serendipitous moment,” added Eve.
A Childhood Dream on the North Shore
For Regina, our Minnesota dogsledding trip was the fulfillment of a childhood dream. “What better place to fulfill my dream than my own state of Minnesota?” she said. Alongside mushing through the snow, she discovered the joy of cross-country skiing for the first time: “I actually did it, and it was so exhilarating!”
The adventure became even more special as she shared it with a dear friend from Colorado and connected with women from across the country. With guides Deb and Adele leading the way, Regina noted, “This trip was amazing, the guides were accommodating, great chefs, and so much fun.” She returned home with excitement of finally living her childhood dream on Minnesota’s North Shore.
Confidence Gained on the Camino
For Kathy, hiking wasn’t always part of her life. But after discovering a love for hiking trails later on in life, she set her sights on a big dream—the Camino de Santiago. When she finally booked the trip with AGC, she worried whether she could truly complete it, especially after starting the trek with painful blisters.
With encouragement from her fellow travelers and the steady support of her AGC guide, Deb, Kathy kept going. “Our AGC guide, Deb, bless her heart, stayed by my side every step of the way,” Kathy shared. “She encouraged me daily, making sure I had everything I needed to enjoy the journey.”
Reaching the end was more than just a physical achievement; it was proof that she was stronger than she ever believed. Along the way, Kathy also formed deep friendships that turned her Camino experience into something even greater: a reminder that community and courage make the impossible possible.
The Role of Community in Reaching Milestones
Outdoor achievements often feel sweeter when shared. On AGC trips, women lift each other, literally on steep trails and figuratively through encouragement and shared joy. It’s the small gestures like passing along a hiking tip, cheering together for a summit photo, and sharing snacks along the trail that turn individual goals into collective celebrations. Reaching milestones is always more meaningful in community.
Your Next Milestone is Waiting
Milestones don’t have to involve a passport or a grueling climb. They can be as simple as saying “yes” to your first group trip, hiking farther than you thought possible, or learning a new outdoor skill. Whatever form your next milestone takes, we’d love to be there alongside you. We’ll celebrate, cheer you on, and make sure your accomplishment is recognized.
