
Sat, Dec 6 | 10am-4:30pm
Retreat fee: $45
Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon County Preserve Nature Center, Poway, CA
So much of what we dwell on has already passed. Old memories, familiar worries, and outdated beliefs often linger in our minds, quietly shaping how we see ourselves and what we think is possible. As we let go of resentment and self-judgment, we open to deeper peace, joy, and possibility.
This day retreat offers a chance to break free from old patterns and learn new ways of relating to ourself and others. Through guided meditations and enjoying the peaceful setting of Sycamore Canyon, you can let go of the past and connect with the present moment, full of infinite possibilities.
Everyone welcome. No experience necessary.
General Information
Retreat Fee
$45
Reduced rates / financial assistance is available. Please email our admin director for more info: [email protected].
Meals
Meals are not included. Attendees should plan on bringing a light lunch. The Nature Center has a kitchenette with a refrigerator and microwave that we can use. Coffee and tea will be provided.
Venue
Sycamore Canyon Preserve consists of 2,272 acres of coastal sage scrub and chaparral-covered hills, including the 325-acre Goodan Ranch, a mix of grassland, riparian, coastal sage, oak woodland and mixed chaparral. Other features include an picnic tables, a rest area, outdoor amphitheater, and a horse trough and hitching post.
More than 10 miles of trails lead to grand vistas, abundant wildlife and interesting reminders of human use, centuries ago.
The preserve includes the Goodan Ranch Nature Center, which was built next to the original ranch house that was burned during the 2003 Cedar Fire. A LEED-certified project, the center houses a multi-purpose demonstration room, exhibit room, and support spaces that run with low site impact and high energy efficiency.
Goodan Ranch Nature Center is located at 16281 Sycamore Canyon Road, Poway, CA 92064.
Retreat Sessions
Friday, Dec 6
Session 1 | 10-11am
Session 2 | 11:30am-12:30pm
Session 3 | 2-3pm
Session 4 | 3:30-4:30pm
During the lunch break we will have the opportunity to walk around the preserve.
Retreat Teacher
Gen Kelsang Lhadron is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center San Diego. Gen Lhadron's sincere teachings are presented with humor and practical examples that make them accessible to everyone. Through her kindness and enthusiasm for meditation practice, she provides an inspiring example of a modern Buddhist practitioner for our society.
FAQ
Arrival time: Between 3:30pm and 4pm on Friday. If you are arriving late, please be onsite by 9pm.
Departure time: 12pm on Sunday.
Parking is limited and we are encouraged to carpool.
In order to ensure safe emergency exit on Camp Steven roads, all cars must be parked in the main parking area by the office or at the lower parking lot, located on the left when driving back down the driveway. Guests may drive to their lodge to unload luggage, but please return cars to the parking lot when finished. There are signs on the road that will direct guests to the various lodges. Please drive at the posted speed limit, 5mph at all times, as pedestrians are often hidden in the curves of the roads.
Mealtimes are at 8 am, noon, and 5:30 pm.
Vegetarian family-style meals that include fresh produce, scratch-baked breads and desserts, camp-raised eggs (when available), organic dairy products, and seasonal garden herbs and veggies. Alternatives are available for vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, and allergy-affected guests. Please indicate your dietary needs at the time of registration. If you have severe allergies, please also contact [email protected].
The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so come prepared for a range of temperatures, in both sunshine and rain, with a chance of snow between November and April. We recommend checking the weather beforehand, as temperatures in the mountains are often different than in lower elevations. In addition to appropriate clothing and shoes, we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle and flashlight. If you are staying in a dorm room, you will need to bring your own pillow, towel, and either twin sheets and blankets or a sleeping bag.
The lodges are heated and the bathrooms are located inside the buildings. Please do not bring pets, illegal drugs, skateboards, scooters, bicycles, weapons or any potentially dangerous equipment.
Submit your cancellation request to [email protected] on or before April 1st to receive a full refund. Receive a 40% refund if cancelled by April 10th. No refund after April 10th.
