Be. Empowered. Outdoors.
Island Ford Adventures is a women-owned and operated outdoor guiding company based in the heart of Western North Carolina. We specialize in guided overnight and multi-night trips, women’s backpacking workshops, and outdoor education designed to build confidence, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging in the natural world.
Our adventures are rooted in the belief that we all need:
The time to just Be.
The knowledge to feel Empowered.
And the space to enjoy the Outdoors.
Now under the leadership of Katlyn Mobley, Island Ford Adventures is entering an exciting new chapter building upon the legacy of Island Ford Adventures . Katlyn brings years of experience as a guide, educator, and founder of Nero Coffee Hikes. She’s known for creating inclusive, welcoming experiences that blend adventure with intention—and yes, usually a good cup of coffee too.
Island Ford Adventures was originally founded by Jayne Fought and Clyde Carter, who built the company from their shared love of the outdoors and a desire to empower others to explore safely and confidently. Their vision created a strong foundation—one that Katlyn is proud to honor and grow from as she leads the company into its next season.
Whether you're showing up for your first hike or returning for a new adventure, we’re so glad you're here.
Meet Your Guide: Katlyn Mobley
Hello! I am excited to hike with you! I have guided 500+ day hikes throughout Western North Carolina through Nero Coffee Hikes, and I am excited to expand our mission of connecting people to the outdoors through our full guided overnight trips through Island Ford Adventures.
As far as hiking experience, I completed a thru hike of the Appalachian Trail, trekked volcanoes in Guatemala, hiked long-distance trails in Patagonia, and I love keeping an outdoor adventure on the calendar.
“I know what backpacking has done for my own self-confidence, and I want more people to feel empowered to take on an overnight or multi-night trip. But I also understand how intimidating it can be to try, so that’s why my goal is to help you have a great first backpacking trip and learn the skills and gain the confidence you need so that when we finish our trip together you are ready to start planning your next trip.” ☕ 🥾 ⛰️💜✨
