Expired Event
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Sat, Dec 6 | 10am-4:30pm

Retreat fee: $45

Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon County Preserve Nature Center, Poway, CA

Arrival Note: Aim to arrive between 9:15am and 10am since the rangers will close the gate shortly after the retreat starts.

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 Old memories, familiar worries, and outdated beliefs often linger in our minds, quietly shaping how we see ourselves and what we think is possible.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 Location & Address

You will find us in the community room at Goodan Ranch Nature Center. The address to use with GPS is 16281 Sycamore Canyon Rd, Poway, CA 92064.  Important driving instructions on how to enter the preserve are below.

Retreat Fee

$45

Reduced rates / financial assistance is available. Please email our admin director for more info: [email protected].

Meals

Meals are not included. Please pack a light lunch. We will have access to a kitchenette with a refrigerator and microwave. Coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided.

Retreat Sessions

Saturday, 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 Tsoglam, Resident Teacher Gen Tsoglam has been studying and practicing Kadampa Buddhism for over 20 years. Her heartfelt and practical teachings are presented with warmth and humor in a way that encourages us to practice them in daily life.

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. 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.

Driving Directions for Entering the Preserve

Once you turn on Sycamore Canyon Road, drive all the way to its end. You will see the Preserve's welcome sign (see pictures below). Continue through the open gate into the trailhead parking lot. Do not park here. The rangers will have opened the second gate for our event, giving us vehicle access to the multi-use dirt road. Once you drive through the second gate, continue driving straight for approximately 1.2 miles until you reach the Nature Center’s parking lot. Park here and head into the Nature Center. Please drive carefully and be on the lookout for hikers, dogs, e-bikers/mountain bikers, and horseback riders.

Arrival Note: Aim to arrive between 9:15am and 10am since the rangers will close the gate shortly after the retreat starts. If you find yourself running late Saturday morning, call/text the Event Coordinators (info below). If the second gate is closed when you arrive, first call the rangers office (info below). If you cannot reach a ranger, call the Event Coordinators.

Important Contacts

Goodan Ranch Rangers Office
Tel: (858) 513-4737

FAQ