Nature Writing & Hiking Retreat
What makes this retreat special?
Generative writing workshops will all take place in Glen Canyon, on trails, immersed in nature. Find the perfect tree to climb, rock to lean against, or sit by the gurgling Colorado River with your journal. Inspiration from the natural world abounds!
At the Marble Canyon Lodge, views of the Vermillion Cliffs are right outside your window and nature is only a step away.
Catered meals at the lodge will give you more time to write and connect with other writers during your stay.
Meet Your Hosts
Morgan Sjogren
Morgan Sjogren writes about Western lands and water through a lens of history, culture, science, and adventure. She is the author of Path of Light: A Walk Through Colliding Legacies of Glen Canyon (Torrey House Press 2023). Sjogren shares her Wild Words and explorations on Substack and on Instagram @morgan.sjogren. She is based in Utah’s canyon country and migrates seasonally throughout the Southwest. Morgan will lead generative writing workshops throughout the weekend.
Beth Henshaw
Beth Henshaw is a nature writer, journalist, and backcountry guide in Page, Arizona. Beth is the co-owner of Pronghorn Expeditions and leads hiking tours in Glen Canyon. She is published in The Corner Post, Durango Magazine, and Four Corners Voices. She writes extensively about the West, grief, and the outdoors on her personal blog. Beth will guide the hiking portions of the retreat and lead generative writing workshops.
General Schedule
Friday 10/9
2:00-5:00 p.m. Arrive, check in to your room, and get settled
6:00 p.m. Dinner, Intros, Welcome
7:30 p.m. Evening event around campfire, reading and Q+A from Morgan Sjogren
Saturday 10/10
7:00 a.m. Personal writing time (optional)
8:00 a.m. Breakfast and coffee at Marble Canyon Lodge, grab lunch to go
9:00-2:30 p.m. Hike the Paria River Trail (2-4 miles round trip, easy) Generative writing workshops led by Morgan & Beth will take place on trail
3:00 p.m. Break, personal care, personal writing time and prep for evening open mic/storytelling event
5:00 p.m. Morgan & Beth available in common area to help craft stories
6:00 p.m. Dinner
7:15 p.m. Evening event: Storytelling at campfire
Sunday 10/11
7:00 a.m. Personal writing time (optional)
8:30 a.m. Breakfast and coffee at Marble Canyon Lodge. Grab lunch to go
9:30 a.m. Hike Secret Trail to private river spot (.5 mile) Generative writing workshop by the Colorado River
12:00 p.m. Lunch, closing circle/reflections
1:30 p.m. Say goodbyes!
Subject to change. A more detailed itinerary will be announced closer to event.
Write & walk with us through Glen Canyon
Pricing
Sliding scale cost $950-1,200 (depending on your preference for a shared or private room).
Pricing includes:
- All meals: breakfast and coffee (Saturday, Sunday), Lunches (Saturday, Sunday) and Dinners (Friday, Saturday). Dietary preferences will be accommodated.
- Guided hikes in Glen Canyon led by Pronghorn Expeditions guide Beth Henshaw
- Generative writing workshops and storytelling coaching from Morgan Sjogren and Beth Henshaw
- Lodging at the Marble Canyon Lodge
Contact us at 928-640-2420 for local pricing that excludes lodging/meals
Lodging
Spend the day outside but enjoy the luxury comfort of sleeping at the newly renovated Marble Canyon Lodge. Pick from either a private or shared room and all meals will be catered by their chef.
Reserve Your Spot
got questions? we’ve got answers.
What’s included in the price?
Lodging, writing workshops, hiking tour, and all meals for the weekend are included in the price.
What airports are closest to Marble Canyon, Arizona?
Phoenix & Las Vegas are both 4 hours from Marble Canyon Lodge. Closer, smaller regional airports include St. George and Flagstaff (2 hours). You can also fly directly into Page, Arizona from the Phoenix airport.
What is the cancellation policy?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer any refunds at this time.
What level of writing experience do I need to attend?
None. This is open to all ability levels and designed to be generative. Anyone who loves to write is welcome.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes!
If the weather is bad, are there any indoor spaces?
Yes, there are several indoor event spaces that we will use in case of inclement weather.
What should I pack?
A journal, pens, backpack, waterbottle, hiking shoes, sunscreen, hat, and clothing that can withstand the sun/elements. A more detailed list will be sent upon registration.
How difficult will the hikes be?
Easy. Think of it more as a walk, write, and wander. The goal is to write in nature, not crush miles.
