WILD

#womengonewilderness

Women's Initiative for Learning and Discovery (WILD) was born inside of Outside World, a local outfitter in Columbus, Georgia - as a place where women of all ages and skills came to learn outdoor basics.

WILD started local hikes and clinics - and finally trips - as a way to apply the knowledge learned into the wilderness, but still in a safe and educational environment.

Over the years, WILD has grown to serve women all across the United States, with virtual learning opportunities and trips across the southeast. From it's inception in 2016, it's mission has never changed, and to this day brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share knowledge and experiences, and serves as a place where women can be empowered through education and exploration.

Our Guides

All of our guides hold current Wilderness First Responder certifications through NOLS, have 15+ years of wilderness experience and have a passion and a love for guiding trips and a the great outdoors!

Executive Director & Lead Guide

Sanna Moravek (Bonner)

Bachelors in Psychology
Wilderness First Responder
Adult/Child CPR AED Airway Management
Epinephrine Auto Injector

Sanna grew up in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California and spent much of her childhood hiking, backpacking, camping and swimming in the National Forest lands and on the Pacific Crest Trail.

After graduating from California State University Chico in 2003 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology she continued to spend most of her time outdoors, hiking the Olympic National Forests or kayaking the beautiful Puget Sound.
With over 25 years of wilderness experience Sanna loves to share her passion and knowledge of the outdoors.

Board President and Guide

Jennifer Lamb

Wilderness First Responder
Adult/Child CPR AED Airway Management
Epinephrine Auto Injector

Jen grew up in Oregon, where she was exposed to the variety of activities in the Pacific Northwest. She constantly camped and hiked, but after moving to Columbus she felt homesick and lost. This all changed when WILD was founded and she discovered a tribe of amazing women to explore with.

Jen's favorite outdoor activity is hiking because there is no other way to fully experience natures wonders and see beautiful views at the same time. Even if it's pouring with low cloud cover you can still enjoy natures beauty.

Jen has taken her love and passion across the world with camping and hiking trips in New Zealand and Europe!

Trail Guide

Brandy Loste Brown

Wilderness First Responder
Adult/Child CPR AED Airway Management
Epinephrine Auto Injector

Brandy is our southeast local, with a passion for travel and fitness. She is an avid runner and backpacker - but loves to travel in her van across the US - exploring and adventuring in beautiful and unique places.

Brandy has been apart of WILD since 2016, and has guided trips in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Appalachian Trail, Cumberland Island and more!

Frequently Asked Questions

GEAR

"I want to try an adventure but I don't have the gear and I do not know what to pack."

Every adventure will come with a complete packing list. WILD has basic camping and backpacking gear for you to rent for trips if needed.

From backpacks to tents and sleeping bags and pads, we have the big stuff covered. You can check out the full line on our rental page.

LOCATION

"I do not live near Columbus, how can I join a class, clinic or adventure?"

All of our classes, clinics and pre-trip meetings are held virtually via Zoom, so you can learn in the comfort of your home, office or van. If you flying in for a trip we can assist in travel recommendations.

SKILLS

"I would like to go on an adventure, but I have never been before and I am afraid of not being skilled enough."

WILD offer's trips for various skill levels - and is a place for you to learn the skills needed! Sign up for a class, or a beginning adventure and you will leave as a more confident and capable outdoors woman!

WILD is the group I never knew I needed. I’ve been wanting to take this trip for 20 plus years and WILD gave me the opportunity to do it, finally!!! I sometimes doubt my abilities, but I didn’t on my trip.

Anita, Georgia