What an adventure! The Red Rocks Revival retreat took place back in March just outside of Las Vegas. We hiked, we laughed, we cried, we hot tubbed and we ate a lot of snacks. We also sweated, like A LOT. Strangers became friends as we explored our connection with self, other and nature. And I could not have been more humbled and honored to lead this group of beautiful souls. The way they helped one another on the hikes, engaged in meaningful conversations throughout and really leaned into the focus of community care while honoring personal needs and boundaries. It was a really magical experience that just goes to show . .you can do some deep personal work while also having a boatload of fun! While there’s no easy way to convey an experience like this, here’s a bit of a recap and hopefully some insight should you decide to join us on a future retreat!
The Hikes: Valley of Fire
Our first hike was a doozy. . it was HOT but oh so much fun! We were given the VIP experience from our local hiking guides as they pieced together portions of established trails like White Dome with some choose our own adventure areas. This is the best part of working with a local, we were able to explore areas that we would have not known about or would have been unsure if we were allowed to venture to. Our local guides were experts on not just the rules of the land but the hidden treasures along the way.
The Hikes: Fletcher Canyon and Eagle's Crest
We originally planned for Arizona Hot Springs Trail this day, however the temps were too high and it would have been unsafe for the group. Luckily there are plenty of back up options and I’d dare say we picked the best one. A huge difference in terrain from day one, Fletcher Canyon and Eagle’s Crest were wooded, there was water and even SNOW!
The Hikes: Pine Creek
Pine Creek Trail in Red Rock Canyon was the perfect last hike. There were options for how far and rugged you wanted to go so the group split in two based on how people were feeling. An awesome little creek, amazing plant life and even some shade made for a great last hike together!
The Vibes
We’re a lot earthy and a bit bougie. Lots of hiking, dirt and sweat with a good mix of hot tub, waterfall pool and sauna. Nothing beats a good relax after a long day hiking. Meals were camper chic with a mix of backpacking trail mix and bagged chicken and homemade biscuits and gravy, crockpot chili and lots more. Plenty of down time to chill, read, chat, and sun bathe.
The Work
Incorporated throughout were mini workshops meant to support everyone’s personal growth journeys wherever they were at. Some were in the middle of a deeply transformative time of life and others were focused more on disconnecting from the grind and reconnecting with nature. From journaling to chatting with trees and a fire ceremony, all of experiences were rooted in nature based healing practices.
The Squad
What makes or breaks a retreat? THE PEOPLE. This group was just meant to be. Everyone was so incredibly open and willing to have real conversations, to connect, to support and to really be present. I am beyond grateful for all of them!
Retreat Leader: Alison (me!) I’m your head happy hiker over here. While I have a lot of retreats under my belt, this was the first time I had led one without a co-host. I am happy to say there were minimal hiccups and I cannot thank these folks enough for being so supportive and willing to go on this journey.
Hiking Guides: David, Meghan – Locals with a ridiculous amount of hiking experience and also my friend since were like one years old. Bonus, they can cook. David and Meghan’s expertise was invaluable to the experience. Not just from knowing where to hike and the hidden treasures but keeping everyone safe and helping with cooking, errands, and everything it takes to run a retreat.
Photog Extraordinaire: Joy – Literally lives up to her name. Obviously the photos are epic but her encouragement, laughs and smiles were the absolute best! Check more of her talent at Joy Rhine Design
Stars of the Show: Thor, Skaói, and Juniper – what even is a retreat without retreat pups. These three are also hiking machines!
