From alpine meadows to forested footpaths, the 3HUTS project has been guiding a new wave of inclusive hiking experiences across Europe. Over the past year, the project has organized a series of international and local hikes, engaging women of all backgrounds and abilities in outdoor activities designed to empower, connect, and inspire. Some of the location visited thanks to the 3HUTS project are, for instance, the Rax plateau in Austria, Tribeč mountains in Slovakia and the legendary Mount Olympus in Greece!
By bringing together participants from Austria, Italy, and Slovakia, 3HUTS has not only offered unforgettable experiences in nature but also created safe spaces for conversations about inclusion, accessibility, and gender equality in outdoor settings. The local hikes, held throughout the year, welcomed first-time hikers and especially women, rediscovering their connection with nature.
Now, the project is proud to unveil its latest milestone:
“The Potential for Mountain Infrastructure to Better Address Female Preferences” – a comprehensive report exploring how hiking trails, huts, and other infrastructure can be improved to better reflect the needs and expectations of female hikers.
Key findings of the report include:
- The importance of safety, comfort, and hygiene in encouraging more women to hike;
- The role of clear information, signage, and welcoming environments in shaping positive experiences;
- The report maps existing mountain infrastructure in Austria, Italy, and Slovakia, identifying barriers and opportunities from a gender perspective;
- A series of actionable recommendations on how hiking infrastructure can be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible for women, especially those new to mountain activities or with limited outdoor experience;
- The value of community-led planning to design trails and facilities that reflect diverse user needs.
“We’ve seen firsthand how powerful and healing nature can be—especially when it’s truly accessible,” says the coordinator of the 3HUTS project. “This report helps translate those lived experiences into practical changes that can make hiking feel safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
The 3HUTS project is a collaboration between organizations from Austria, Italy, and Slovenia, each committed to making outdoor activities more inclusive and accessible. All three partners share a strong focus on promoting gender equality in sport, and their work through 3HUTS reflects a broader mission to ensure that hiking—and movement in nature—is truly open to everyone.
Together, the partners will continue developing and advocating for inclusive practices, designing outdoor experiences that recognize and support the needs of underrepresented groups, particularly women and girls. By addressing both physical and social barriers, they aim to create more equitable opportunities in sport and active living across Europe.
