Touching the Earth

An outdoor retreat in the Dragoon Mountains, SE Arizona

February 13 – 19


A Sky Mind Retreat

Cost: $450 - $320 (sliding scale)
Scholarships available.
Retreat Teacher: Susie Harrington
Cook: Jenn Knochel

Due to a cancellation there is space on this retreat. If you would like to join please register, or contact the registrar at MK007.

In the spirit of generosity, Susie offers her teaching and Jenn offers her cooking freely, and you have the opportunity to offer a support donation at the end of the retreat to each of them. For more information, see Teacher & Staff Support.

The Retreat Info pdf linked below contains more detailed retreat information; please read before registering.
  • Sun over grand canyon forest
  • Cook and outdoor kitchen
  • Evening light on the canyon rim
  • Weathered wood

MEDITATING IN THE DESERT: Again and again the Buddha recommended practice out of doors. Immersed in nature, and in the quiet of our meditation practice, we will open ourselves to the interconnectedness, preciousness, and beauty of our true nature. In this retreat, we'll be encouraged to look out and around, as well as inward, and to delight in what we see.

We will hold this retreat at the Dharma Treasure Retreat Center which is located east of Tucson near Cochise Stronghold in the Dragoon Mountains, one of Arizona's Sky Island ranges. This is a privately owned retreat center that adjoins National Forest land with access to walking both onsite, and in the adjoining forest. The adjacent forest land is open and is inviting for wandering and exploring.

While the site is isolated and simple, solar showers and a complete kitchen with fresh food contribute to making it an inviting and nurturing place to be. While all practice will be outside, and most will tent, there is also a limited number of indoor sleeping spaces. If an outdoor retreat appeals to you, far from people, without the challenges of backpacking, this may be a retreat for you!

In this era of Covid-19, a camping retreat is uniquely suited to allow for social distancing while still providing a wonderful retreat container. We have created detailed procedures and systems to allow for a smooth flowing and a safe retreat container. Please note, you will be required to get a Covid-19 test prior to leaving home. This is a requirement of the retreat center and is a condition of our using their facility. There is more information in the Covid-19 protocol document.