Writing Retreat

Every fall, members have an opportunity to escape into Rocky Mountain National Park and spend three nights and nearly three days of quiet writing time. What better place to write than in a beautiful setting without any distractions? There aren't any classes or talks, just lots of writing time. 

We’re in our 12th year of providing writers the unique opportunity to escape the daily grind and focus purely on writing, among some of the most gorgeous surroundings Colorado has to offer. Over the years, participants have experienced a variety of Colorado splendor, whether it’s falling leaves or falling snow, as they dive deep into their works-in-progress. In 2017, participants collectively wrote nearly 90,000 words!

While you might be distracted by the beautiful scenery, visiting wildlife, and fresh mountain air, we think these are the very things that can spark inspiration and the aforementioned creativity. And don’t worry, after a hard day of writing, there will be optional social time in the evenings to enjoy a cocktail and conversation with fellow attendees.

NCW has secured an 8-bedroom cabin (each with a full bath) at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. The cabin offers amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, a large kitchen, living and dining areas, a gas fireplace, outdoor seating, and WiFi access. Seven of the bedrooms have 2 queen beds and the 8th bedroom has 3 sets of twin bunk beds. (Think of it as writing camp!) Each bedroom has a bathroom.

Main meals are provided, but participants are asked to bring a side dish and snack to share. A signup sheet, with more specific information regarding food, will be available during registration.

SAMPLE AGENDA: 

Sunday:
3:00 p.m. – Arrive at YMCA of the Rockies and get settled
4:00-6:00 – Quiet writing time
6:00-7:00 – Dinner
7:00-7:30 – Writer Roundup (each writer discusses their writing goals for the retreat)
7:30-9:00 – Cocktails, writing games, and hanging out (optional)

Monday:
7:00-9:00 a.m. – Breakfast items will be available in the kitchen; come and go as you please.
9:00-5:30 – Writing time. Lunch will be available in the kitchen from 11:30-1:30 for you to help yourself.
5:30-6:30 – Dinner
6:30-7:30 – Writing time
7:30-10:00 – Movie and munchies (optional)

Tuesday:
7:00-9:00 a.m. – Breakfast items will be available in the kitchen; come and go as you please.
9:00-5:30 – Writing time. Lunch will be available in the kitchen from 11:30-1:30 for you to help yourself.
5:30-6:30 – Dinner
6:30-7:30 – Writing time
7:30-10:00 – Social time (optional)

Wednesday:
7:00-8:30 a.m. – Breakfast items will be available in the kitchen; come and go as you please.
8:30 – Final Roundup
9:00-9:30 – Writing time
9:30-10:00 – Gather belongings and checkout by 10:00 a.m.

Price:

Queen bed (shared room): $275
Twin bed (shared room, women only): $200

2020 Retreat Dates: October 4-7, 2020
Registration opens in May.