This year’s conference takes place at Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat & Conference Center from October 16–19. [Registration link here.]
What are the accommodations like?
Breitenbush lodging is rustic and simple by design. Guests should expect a retreat environment focused on comfort, community, and connection with nature rather than hotel-style amenities.
What time should I arrive, and when does the conference begin?
We recommend arriving at Breitenbush Hot Springs around 3:00 p.m. on Friday to allow time to park, unload your belongings, explore the campus, and get settled. Lodging check-in begins at 4:00 p.m.
When you arrive, you will park in the designated lot and use a wheeled cart to transport your belongings to the registration area. You will complete check-in there before heading to your accommodations.
Our first conference offering begins at 4:30 p.m. on Friday with a guided nature therapy experience designed to help participants connect with the land and natural surroundings of Breitenbush.
The conference concludes at 1:00 p.m. on Monday. Monday lunch is included with your stay and is served from 1:00-2:00 p.m., allowing participants to enjoy lunch before departing.
What should I pack?
Mountain weather can change quickly in the fall, so we recommend bringing layers, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes.
Be sure to bring:
- Warm bedding and a pillow
- Biodegradable, scent-free toiletries
- A flashlight or headlamp – Breitenbush gets very dark at night, and additional lighting is important for safely getting around the property after dark
- A small bag or tote for carrying your flashlight, water bottle, and other personal items as you move between your lodging, the springs, and conference spaces
- Reusable water bottle (non-glass)
- Swimsuit (optional)
- Towel or robe for soaking
- Slip-on shoes
You may also want to bring clothing that helps you feel comfortable, held, nurtured, and fully yourself – whether that means cozy layers for quiet evenings, something special for gathering with community, or clothing that expresses a deeper part of who you are. This is a retreat, so pack for your own comfort and sense of ease.
What is the overall conference atmosphere like?
The conference experience is intentionally restorative and community oriented. Attendees are encouraged to unplug, slow down, connect with one another and the natural environment, and participate respectfully in shared spaces.
Are meals included, and when are they served?
Yes. Meals are included with your reservation. Dining hours are:
- Breakfast: 8-9 a.m.
- Lunch: 1-2 p.m.
- Dinner: 6-7 p.m.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Meals are vegetarian and primarily organic. A low-gluten, dairy-free, and egg-free option is available with advance notice during registration.
Is there coffee available?
Hot water is available in the dining area 24/7. You are welcome to bring a non-electric coffee maker (such as a French press or pour-over) and your own coffee.
The gift shop in the Main Lodge also sells coffee drinks, snacks, and other beverages if you need a little something between meals.
Are bathrooms private?
Most accommodations include shared bathroom facilities unless otherwise specified in the lodging description.
What electrical power is available in rooms?
Rooms have limited off-grid electricity, with enough power for essentials like CPAP machines and charging small devices. Please leave high-energy appliances such as hair dryers and electric kettles at home.
Should I carpool?
Carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking and the remote location of Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat & Conference Center.
Can I attend the conference without staying at Breitenbush?
No. Because of Breitenbush’s event policies, all conference participants must be overnight guests at Breitenbush Hot Springs. Day-use attendance is not permitted for conference events, so conference registration must include an overnight stay.
How do I register if I’m bringing someone who will not be attending the conference?
The person who made the reservation is welcome to reach out to Breitenbush at , mentioning that they would like to add a guest to their reservation and that the guest will not be attending the retreat.
The Breitenbush office will need the following information:
- First and last name
- Email address (if 18+)
- Age (if under 18)
- Meal preference: vegetarian, or vegan / gluten & egg free
How do I book a room with someone who will be attending the conference?
Attendees can register together. When selecting a room, a drop-down menu will appear where you can select the number of people in your group-in this case, 2.
If you register separately, there is a section for additional notes that our office team receives. You can include a note such as, “Kim Brown and I would like to room together.”
Keep in Mind at Breitenbush
- Clothing is optional in soaking areas. You may soak nude or in a swimsuit.
- Breitenbush offers a digital detox experience. There is no cell service or internet access but there is a landline available for emergency calls. If someone needs to reach you while you are at the retreat, they can contact the Breitenbush office at (503) 854-3320 and provide your name and the conference you are attending.
- Breitenbush maintains a substance-free environment. Alcohol, drugs, and intoxicants are not permitted.
- Pets are not permitted in order to protect the wildlife and community environment.
- Breitenbush maintains a fragrance-free environment. Please avoid perfumes and scented personal products.