It is an ancient tradition for spiritual pilgrims to seek inner transformation in nature. Cloud Canyon Expeditions brings the Buddhist practice of mindfulness meditation to wilderness treks. Meditation provides the structure for our days and a method for opening to our inner journey and connecting more deeply with the world around us. Each day will include some periods of sitting in silence as a group, meditation instruction, and solo meditation. As we move across the land on our journey, the stillness and beauty of the landscape begin to draw us in. We begin to remember something very deep and true about ourselves, that we are not separate from the earth or from each other. Our attention sharpens. Our minds quiet and our hearts open.

There will also be time each day for hiking and exploring, swimming, journal writing or art. Some Cloud Canyon retreats are fully silent. On others there will be silent times each day as well as times to talk, both informally and in “council circle.” We will look at the geology, learn basic backcountry skills, and practice no-trace camping.

You do not need to be an experienced backpacker to join us. About half the participants on our wilderness retreats are first-time backpackers. We will teach you all the basic wilderness skills you need to know. You can call us anytime to discuss your concerns before the trip. We will help you with the equipment list and discuss physical conditioning.

An essential part of the wilderness experience is taking the journey away from our accustomed comforts and our usual safety zone. We emphasize thoughtful, aware hiking, and we teach the skills for comfortable and confident backcountry travel, including a twenty-four-hour solo. You will end your trip with a great feeling of accomplishment and renewal.

You can contact us...

By email -- alison@cloudcanyon.com    (Click on email address to send us a message)

By phone -- (805) 692-9615

By regular mail -- 4858 Ogram Road, Santa Barbara, California, USA 93105-9732