moderate
4–6 hours per day
Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength are recommended due to mixed terrain and moderate elevation gain.
Recharge your spirit with Back to Earth Retreat’s mindful hikes and meditation in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Balance adventure with peace amid breathtaking wilderness.
A weekend retreat "off the grid" in NH's White Mountain wilderness
Experience a transformative weekend retreat in New Hampshire's White Mountain wilderness, where adventure meets mindfulness. Challenge yourself with breathtaking hikes, enjoy serene meditation, and connect with nature and fellow adventurers. This unique journey promises stunning views, camaraderie, and a chance to recharge your spirit in a cozy mountain hut.
Join us for an exhilarating day of hiking, breathtaking views, and mindful relaxation!
Day 1: We’ll meet at 8:00 AM at the Old Bridle Path Trailhead. Convenient parking is available off I-93 North, with overflow parking at Lafayette State Park (accessible via I-93 South), connected by a pedestrian tunnel that leads back to the trailhead.
Our journey begins along the scenic Falling Waters Trail, which meanders alongside a river and showcases stunning waterfalls. After a 3.0-mile ascent, we’ll reach the peak of Little Haystack, where we’ll pause to take in the views and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
Next, we’ll traverse the iconic Franconia Ridge Trail, a 1.7-mile stretch that takes us over the summits of Mount Lincoln and Mount Lafayette, the tallest mountain outside the Presidential Range. Along the way, you’ll soak in panoramic views of the White Mountains, making this one of the most celebrated hikes in the region.
Our descent begins on the Greenleaf Trail, leading us 1.1 miles down to the Greenleaf Hut, our cozy home for the night. After settling in, you’ll have time to unwind, soak in the serene surroundings, and participate in a group meditation session to relax your mind and body. Dinner will be served at 6:00 PM, offering a warm, satisfying meal to close out the day.
After Dinner, enjoy your time relaxing however you wish with options to play a board game, star gaze or enjoy a nature lecture from the AMC staff. Lights out at 10:00PM.
Day 2: Our second day begins with a 6:30 AM wake-up call, allowing us to greet the morning with tranquility and purpose. You’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at 7:00 AM, fueling you for the day ahead. Before we begin our descent, we’ll gather for a rejuvenating yoga stretch session, designed to awaken your body, ease any soreness from the hike, and center your mind. Once refreshed and ready, we’ll pack up our belongings and begin the scenic 3.0-mile descent along the Old Bridle Path, retracing our steps back to the Lafayette Place East parking lot. Along the way, we’ll have time to savor the stunning views and reflect on the incredible journey.
We plan to arrive back at our cars by 12:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to bask in the accomplishment of summiting Franconia Ridge and immersing yourself in this extraordinary experience. A perfect blend of adventure, mindfulness, and camaraderie—this retreat will leave you feeling recharged, inspired, and ready for your next journey!
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with nature, yourself, and others on this unforgettable hiking retreat!
NOTE: Everyone attending is responsible for carrying their own backpack. We will go over all gear in the parking lot prior to ascending and take with us only the essentials – all other items will be left behind. In case of rain, please bring a large trash bag or pack rain cover to keep personal items dry. A full suggested packing list will be emailed to you 1 week prior to your retreat.
2 day / 1 overnight stay at the AMC Hut (c-ed bunk accommodations with shared baths) 1 Dinner, served family style at 6:00 p.m. sharp 1 Breakfast, served family style at 7:00 a.m. sharp 1 Yoga class 1 Guided Meditation Guided Hiking to/from trailhead Pillow and wool blanket 1 Educational nature lecture by the AMC staff
Lunch. Bring your own lunch, otherwise snack items, soup, baked goods are available for sale from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (cash only) Linens, sleeping bag, bath towel, beach towel.
White Mountain weather can shift rapidly; bring moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
Carry at least 2 liters of water and refill when possible from streams after purification.
Poles enhance stability and reduce knee strain on steep or rocky sections.
Focus on your breath and surroundings to deepen your connection with the trail.
The White Mountains have been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts since the 19th century, with trails originally forged by indigenous peoples and early explorers.
Back to Earth Retreat follows Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on fragile mountain ecosystems and promoting sustainable outdoor ethics.
Sturdy boots provide traction and ankle support on rocky mountain trails.
Essential for staying hydrated during long hikes.
Allows adjustment to rapid weather changes common in the White Mountains.
Comfortable seating for outdoor mindfulness sessions enhances relaxation.