Retreat Logistics

What to bring?
What not to bring?

No alcohol or recreational drugs are allowed. Since our purpose is to provide a supportive environment for retreat, computers, iPods, and other similar electronic devices are discouraged. Cell phones should be only be used for emergencies, not casual conversation.

Shrine
A shrine area is provided in each cabin, but you should bring your own practice items such as thank as, incense, and such. We provide a zafu and zabuton for sitting meditation.
Bedding
We will provide necessary bed linens.
Clothing

The weather varies considerably in Crestone to quite warm in the summer to quite cold in the winter. At any time of year it is good to bring clothing that can be layered, as temperatures can vary 40 degrees within one day due to the altitude being over 8000 feet. While is does snow at times from October through May, there usually is not much snow accumulation due to the abundant sunshine. Look closely at the temperature averages for the time of your retreat and plan accordingly. One good source of information is http://www.keno.org/vws/crestone_weather_records.htm. Be sure to bring some sturdy shoes or boots.

How do I get there?

See our Getting to Crestone section.

What food and supplies are available locally?

Most basic supplies are available locally within five miles of the retreat center. The Elephant Cloud has a good supply of foods typically found in smaller health food stores, including organic produce, cereals, and juices. The Crestone Mercantile is a full service conventional grocery. There are restaurants in Crestone, as well as a coffee shop. If you need something that is not available in Crestone, it is about an hour drive to the nearby larger towns of Alamosa and Salida. Gas is available at the Elephant Cloud Market by credit card ONLY.

What to bring?
What not to bring?

No alcohol or recreational drugs are allowed. Since our purpose is to provide a supportive environment for retreat, computers, iPods, and other similar electronic devices are discouraged. Cell phones should be only be used for emergencies, not casual conversation.

Shrine
A shrine area is provided in each cabin, but you should bring your own practice items such as thank as, incense, and such. We provide a zafu and zabuton for sitting meditation.
Bedding
We will provide necessary bed linens.
Clothing

The weather varies considerably in Crestone to quite warm in the summer to quite cold in the winter. At any time of year it is good to bring clothing that can be layered, as temperatures can vary 40 degrees within one day due to the altitude being over 8000 feet. While is does snow at times from October through May, there usually is not much snow accumulation due to the abundant sunshine. Look closely at the temperature averages for the time of your retreat and plan accordingly. One good source of information is http://www.keno.org/vws/crestone_weather_records.htm. Be sure to bring some sturdy shoes or boots.

How do I get there?

See our Getting to Crestone section.

What food and supplies are available locally?

Most basic supplies are available locally within five miles of the retreat center. The Elephant Cloud has a good supply of foods typically found in smaller health food stores, including organic produce, cereals, and juices. The Crestone Mercantile is a full service conventional grocery. There are restaurants in Crestone, as well as a coffee shop. If you need something that is not available in Crestone, it is about an hour drive to the nearby larger towns of Alamosa and Salida. Gas is available at the Elephant Cloud Market by credit card ONLY.