Fierce Souls and Tender Hearts: A Courageous Gathering Across Generation and Gender
** CLICK THE LEADER TO SEE THEIR BIO **
Leaders
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Carol KortschCo-LeaderCarol Kortsch was born in Africa, educated in Canada, and then worked internationally building community in different forms. After 25 years in psychotherapy and group practice at Stonehaven Commons in Radnor, PA., she now offers nature-based retreats from Boulder, Colorado as a Courage & Renewal group facilitator. She is blending the Earth-based practices of Animas Valley Institute in a visionary program called ElderSoul. As a life adventurer and Earth listener, she recognizes our essential and critical human need to stop, slow down, and listen to our lives and all our relations speak.
What we offer in these circles is a dream of unique personal and communal ‘belonging’ to this physical land and human-time on Earth. Learning to live whole-heartedly as individuals within a culture that mostly hides behind its own shadow. We aspire to support each other in fully emerging as soulful beings-in-process, at every age and life-stage. To learn from and through ‘the Elder within’ – that fiery birthright capacity to be elders-in-training to serve as channels of life energy on behalf of the greater village we live in.
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Will ForsytheCo-LeaderWill Forsythe is a spiritual director, retreat facilitator, and co-pastor of All Souls Church of Boulder, devoted to helping people listen for the inner voice that leads toward wholeness. He is currently in training with the Center for Courage & Renewal, deepening his commitment to creating spaces of trust, reflection, and authentic community.
A father of two, Will finds much of his wisdom in the ordinary rhythms of family life, long afternoons spent fly fishing, and the attentive act of watching birds. He’s often found with a cup of craft coffee he enjoys a bit too much, reading Wendell Berry, or listening to philosophy lectures that most people would politely describe as “deeply boring.”
His work continues to be shaped by wonder, friendship, and an abiding belief that the world is always offering us another invitation to return to ourselves. Will is also the co-creator of Wild Souls Collective — a growing community exploring soulful living, contemplative practice, and earth-honoring spirituality.
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Laurie AdamsCo-LeaderLaurie Adams was raised by mountains and rivers and lives with a felt sense of the wild holy that weaves the worlds. As a guide, mentor and facilitator, she supports humans across thresholds in their journey into their own depths and soul home in this shimmering web of the cosmos. She has a passion for nature based, soul-connected ancestral work, emergent cultural practices and intergenerational journeys in which humans remember their deepest longing and wholeness and risk stepping through thresholds of becoming.
Previously ordained clergy and hospice chaplain, she is steeped in Bill Plotkins’ Soulcraft, The Animas Valley Institute’s Soul Apprenticeship and Initiation Program, Joanna Macy’s The Work that Reconnects, Permaculture, Body Wisdom, among other embodied, earth-based and soul-centric wisdom practices. www.SacredSoulWaters.net
KEY POINTS
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DATES AND TIMES
Arrival: Thursday, September 24 at 2 pm. Departure: Sunday, September 27 at 2 pm.
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REQUIREMENTS
If you are committed to integrating body, soul, and spirit and to becoming more fully alive to your freedoms and responsibilities, then this gathering is for you. See RMERC accessibility, information HERE.
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EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT
Early bird discount of $45, ending July 10, 2026.
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PROGRAM PRICE
$370-$610 (includes food and lodging); early bird: $325-$565
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LEADER SUPPORT
By donation (see Things to Know)
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PROGRAM QUESTIONS
Contact Carol at [email protected]
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REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
Contact Kathy at [email protected]
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EQUIPMENT LIST
Download an Equipment List Here (see what RMERC provides here)
- CALENDAR
EVENT DESCRIPTION
RETREAT DETAILS
Come join us, just beyond the known – where our fierce souls and tender hearts are summoned by the wild, shape-shifting presence of the sacred. With the living land as guide, this intentionally intergenerational and gender inclusive retreat invites us deeper into the psychospiritual journey and capacity to be a community body of fierce tenderness in these times.
In this Equinox time, we wade into the depths to courageously explore the generative integration of perceived polarities: power and tenderness, clarity and compassion, sacred feminine and masculine, anima and animus, wisdom and innocence, elder and youth.
We will listen for the wise elder within, regardless of age, and reclaim the creative expression and innate powers essential to our wholeness, as we navigate this threshold of our lives together.
Held by the wisdom of the land and each other, our days will weave solitude and community, solo wandering on the land, courageous circle practice, the depth work of soul and shared ritual. We will root ourselves in earth-based, soul-centric practices – in particular working with shadow and projection – and ancestral memory as we step into the deep waters of the unknown, tend our grief and longing, and reclaim wholeness to strengthen our capacity for the collective work of The Great Turning and unraveling.
Together, we will create a Circle of Trust® grounded in the principles and practices of the Courage & Renewal approach, the Animas Valley Institute and Bill Plotkin’s work and the Work that Reconnects from Joanna Macy.
TESTIMONIALS
“I’m feeling my way into different forms of Courage work and loved experiencing another shape for it as well as the fusion with other kinds of group work.” S.K
“I appreciated the questions around thresholds, considering my readiness to cross and what’s holding me back … I’m so grateful for the wisdom you hold and the inner work you’ve done that allow you to guide us into our own soul journeys.” S.R.
“What a wonderful flow of powerful, gentle and exquisitely woven program. My heart is grateful and full.” S.O.
THINGS TO KNOW
PAYMENT AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
FOOD AND MEALS
Meals are vegetarian and may include eggs or dairy, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Usually the cook can accommodate common food allergies such as gluten or dairy, but not food preferences. Make sure to include any special allergy or health needs you have during registration.
Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.
GENERAL RETREAT INFORMATION
Accessibility
We welcome everyone to the beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains. Please be aware that our historic lodge and its surroundings reflect the rugged nature of our location. The terrain is often uneven, and the lodge features steep stairs and smaller, rustic bathrooms that may present challenges for those with limited mobility.
While we are working toward long-term structural improvements, we are deeply committed to making our retreats as inclusive as possible today. If you have any concerns about your ability to navigate the space, please reach out to us. We would love to discuss your specific needs and explore every possible way to support your stay.
RMERC Lodging
Lodging at RMERC includes
- Single rooms
- Shared rooms (all doubles except for 1 triple that fills if needed)
- ‘Mini-singles’, available in the shoulder seasons
- A single ‘nook’
- Glamping and camping, available in the summer and early fall
- RV spaces, available all season.
See lodging details and photos here. Available lodging options are presented during registration.
Waivers and Minimum Age
All participants must sign an RMERC Waiver and Release to participate in activities at RMERC. Click here to sign the Waiver and Release. Some leaders may require their own waiver and release.
Participants must be 18 years or older to attend a retreat at RMERC. We are not able to accommodate children.
Yogi Jobs
Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. Yogi jobs will be organized by the retreat manager. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action. Yogi jobs typically include meal prep, meal clean up, bathrooms, tea bar, and last-day clean up.
Phone and Internet
You will be out of contact with no internet access or cell phone service during the retreat. The nearest strong cell signal could be as far away as the plains north of Boulder, or in the town of Nederland.
Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are only available for emergency use.
Equipment List
Weather in the Rocky Mountains is variable and often unpredictable. Sunny skies can quickly give way to fast-moving storms, bringing sudden rain, hail, and wind, regardless of the season. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with warm midday conditions followed by cold or freezing temperatures at night. During June-September, average highs are 65-75 F and lows are 35-45 F. In May and October average highs are in the 50s and lows are below freezing. April and November are colder still.
Equipment lists vary from one retreat to the next. Download an equipment list for your retreat on the retreat listing (or contact the retreat organizer). A general equipment list is available here: PDF Version | Word Version.
Please do not bring a radio, music player, iPod, laptop, books, axe, alcohol, marijuana, or illegal drugs. Think about whether you really need a camera; is it consistent with the intentions of a retreat?
What RMERC Provides
- Linens. Two sheets, a pillowcase, pillow, two blankets, and a towel are supplied for each lodge guest, including glamping. Campers get a towel. Extra linens are available as needed.
- Toiletries. Bathrooms are stocked with soap, hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
- Refrigerator. A very small refrigerator is available for guest items; it is shared by all guests.
- Fans are available as needed. Air purifiers are in all double rooms.
- Yoga mats, meditation mats (zabutons) and meditation cushions (zafus) are available for indoor use.
Altitude Sickness
RMERC is at an elevation of 8600 feet, and most people coming from lower elevations experience some effects of altitude. If you are coming from sea level, we recommend that you arrive in the Denver area a night earlier to help acclimatize. Remember to stay hydrated, stay warm, and take it easy the first day or two at the retreat center. Be kind to yourself.
No Fragrances Please
Out of consideration for others, we ask that you not use scented self-care products, oils, or fragrances. We ask that everyone exercise the utmost respect for self and others. Thank you!
Infectious Disease Policy
See the complete infectious disease policy here.
RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. RMERC does not require vaccinations, testing, or masks at this time. However, individual retreat leaders may determine stricter protocols at their discretion, and RMERC may revise the infectious disease policy in response to changes in public health guidelines
We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your possible exposure before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.
TRAVEL AND ARRIVAL AT RMERC
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
MISCELLANEOUS
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
THINGS TO KNOW
VOLUNTARY DONATIONS FOR LEADERS (DANA)
The price of retreats is set as low as possible and covers only retreat center expenses. None of the fee goes to the leaders, who are solely supported by the voluntary dana offerings of yogis. In the tradition of the Buddha, the amount of the dana offering is up to each individual. We do ask that your offering be as generous as your finances allow in order to support the tireless efforts of the leaders. We are very grateful for your support.
Options for offering dana to the teacher include donating by cash or check at the end of the retreat or in some cases using a credit card, debit card or PayPal link added to the retreat description (above) or sent in a post-retreat email.
PAYMENT AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
Payment and Cancellation Policies
Retreats with RMERC Registration
A non-refundable deposit of $120 (for retreats 4 nights and under) or $180 (for retreats over 4 nights) is due at the time of registration to hold your space. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat start date. If you signed up earlier than 60 days, your credit card will be automatically charged at 60 days before the retreat start date.
Early Bird Discounts
RMERC offers an approximately 10% discount for early bird registrations; see details of each retreat for the cutoff date.
Payments
Our registration system accepts payments only by debit and credit card. If you require an alternate payment method, please contact our registrar at [email protected].
Cancellation and Refund Policies
- The registration deposit ($120 or $180) is non-refundable.
- For cancellation requests received 60-30 days prior to the retreat start date, RMERC will offer a refund of half of the final payment (the final payment is the full amount less the deposit).
- For cancellation requests received 30-7 days prior to the event start date, RMERC will offer a refund of 25% of the final payment.
- For cancellations inside of 7 days there will be no refunds.
Scholarships
Retreats with RMERC Registration
We invite anyone with financial hardship to apply for an RMERC scholarship. Scholarship awards are based on need and availability of funds. We ask that you request the lowest amount required to attend the retreat, so that we can offer support to as many people as possible. Do not let cost be an impediment to your attending.
Click here to apply for an RMERC Scholarship.
Scholarship awards do not guarantee acceptance into a retreat. Please register as soon as possible after receiving your award to make sure space and appropriate lodging are available. Scholarship awards are valid for 2 weeks.
FOOD AND MEALS
Meals are vegetarian and may include eggs or dairy, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Usually the cook can accommodate common food allergies such as gluten or dairy, but not food preferences. Make sure to include any special allergy or health needs you have during registration.
Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.
GENERAL RETREAT INFORMATION
Accessibility
We welcome everyone to the beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains. Please be aware that our historic lodge and its surroundings reflect the rugged nature of our location. The terrain is often uneven, and the lodge features steep stairs and smaller, rustic bathrooms that may present challenges for those with limited mobility.
While we are working toward long-term structural improvements, we are deeply committed to making our retreats as inclusive as possible today. If you have any concerns about your ability to navigate the space, please reach out to us. We would love to discuss your specific needs and explore every possible way to support your stay.
RMERC Lodging
Lodging at RMERC includes
- Single rooms
- Shared rooms (all doubles except for 1 triple that fills if needed)
- ‘Mini-singles’, available in the shoulder seasons
- A single ‘nook’
- Glamping and camping, available in the summer and early fall
- RV spaces, available all season.
See lodging details and photos here. Available lodging options are presented during registration.
Waivers and Minimum Age
All participants must sign an RMERC Waiver and Release to participate in activities at RMERC. Click here to sign the Waiver and Release. Some leaders may require their own waiver and release.
Participants must be 18 years or older to attend a retreat at RMERC. We are not able to accommodate children.
Yogi Jobs
Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. Yogi jobs will be organized by the retreat manager. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action. Yogi jobs typically include meal prep, meal clean up, bathrooms, tea bar, and last-day clean up.
Phone and Internet
You will be out of contact with no internet access or cell phone service during the retreat. The nearest strong cell signal could be as far away as the plains north of Boulder, or in the town of Nederland.
Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are only available for emergency use.
Equipment List
Weather in the Rocky Mountains is variable and often unpredictable. Sunny skies can quickly give way to fast-moving storms, bringing sudden rain, hail, and wind, regardless of the season. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with warm midday conditions followed by cold or freezing temperatures at night. During June-September, average highs are 65-75 F and lows are 35-45 F. In May and October average highs are in the 50s and lows are below freezing. April and November are colder still.
Equipment lists vary from one retreat to the next. Download an equipment list for your retreat on the retreat listing (or contact the retreat organizer). A general equipment list is available here: PDF Version | Word Version.
Please do not bring a radio, music player, iPod, laptop, books, axe, alcohol, marijuana, or illegal drugs. Think about whether you really need a camera; is it consistent with the intentions of a retreat?
What RMERC Provides
- Linens. Two sheets, a pillowcase, pillow, two blankets, and a towel are supplied for each lodge guest, including glamping. Campers get a towel. Extra linens are available as needed.
- Toiletries. Bathrooms are stocked with soap, hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
- Refrigerator. A very small refrigerator is available for guest items; it is shared by all guests.
- Fans are available as needed. Air purifiers are in all double rooms.
- Yoga mats, meditation mats (zabutons) and meditation cushions (zafus) are available for indoor use.
Altitude Sickness
RMERC is at an elevation of 8600 feet, and most people coming from lower elevations experience some effects of altitude. If you are coming from sea level, we recommend that you arrive in the Denver area a night earlier to help acclimatize. Remember to stay hydrated, stay warm, and take it easy the first day or two at the retreat center. Be kind to yourself.
No Fragrances Please
Out of consideration for others, we ask that you not use scented self-care products, oils, or fragrances. We ask that everyone exercise the utmost respect for self and others. Thank you!
Infectious Disease Policy
See the complete infectious disease policy here.
RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. RMERC does not require vaccinations, testing, or masks at this time. However, individual retreat leaders may determine stricter protocols at their discretion, and RMERC may revise the infectious disease policy in response to changes in public health guidelines
We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your possible exposure before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.
TRAVEL AND ARRIVAL AT RMERC
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
MISCELLANEOUS
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
KEY POINTS
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DATES AND TIMES
Arrival: Thursday, September 24 at 2 pm. Departure: Sunday, September 27 at 2 pm.
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REQUIREMENTS
If you are committed to integrating body, soul, and spirit and to becoming more fully alive to your freedoms and responsibilities, then this gathering is for you. See RMERC accessibility, information HERE.
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EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT
Early bird discount of $45, ending July 10, 2026.
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PROGRAM PRICE
$370-$610 (includes food and lodging); early bird: $325-$565
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LEADER SUPPORT
By donation (see Things to Know)
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PROGRAM QUESTIONS
Contact Carol at [email protected]
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REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
Contact Kathy at [email protected]
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EQUIPMENT LIST
Download an Equipment List Here (see what RMERC provides here)
- CALENDAR
RETREAT MANAGER
Retreat Manager
