Methow Valley Winter Yoga Retreat

The Methow Valley Winter Yoga Retreat is a weekend yoga and meditation retreat led by Joanna Dunn of Joanna Dunn Yoga and Yoga Retreats, based in Leavenworth, Washington. It takes place at The Inn at Mazama in Mazama, in the Methow Valley, and is built for people who want to pair a snowy winter weekend with an unhurried yoga practice, whether that means cross-country skiing during the day or staying in by the fire.

What to Expect

Yoga and meditation happen daily, and the rest of the time is yours. The retreat is meant to complement snow-driven adventures rather than compete with them: ski in the daylight, then come back to the mat, good food and easy conversation. Those who are not snow people can curl up with a book by the fire, soak in the hot tub, or wander.

A past participant describes Joanna as having a sense of the pulse of the group and adjusting her plans to match. She starts from a simple theme that builds through the weekend, so by the end there is a feeling of having accomplished something. The group tends to be a mix of ages and levels of yoga experience, and the atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of laughter.

The core retreat runs for a weekend with two nights at the inn. Guests who want a longer stay can add yoga and meals starting the Thursday night before.

The Setting

The Inn at Mazama sits in the village of Mazama, behind the Mazama Store. You can ski right out the door onto trails in what the organizers call possibly the best cross-country skiing in North America. Snow conditions vary from year to year, so it is worth knowing that one returning guest found the skiing marginal in a lean season, though the retreat itself still delivered.

Hot breakfasts and dinners are prepared by Sam Switzer. Lunch is on your own, at the Mazama Pub or the Mazama Store, or pack something, since the rooms have fridges. The Mazama General Store is a short walk for a latte and locally made souvenirs, and the town of Winthrop is nearby for shopping.

Rooms are held for the group at the inn, and dog-friendly room options are available. If the inn is full, you can stay elsewhere in the valley and still join the yoga and the meals at the inn. Those who need a roommate can ask Joanna, who may be able to match you with someone.

Before You Go

This retreat is open to all levels, and no prerequisite is stated. Sessions are taught in English. Space is limited, and Joanna asks that you contact her before booking a room or registering.

Included:
- Lodging at The Inn at Mazama, booked directly with the inn at a group rate
- Daily yoga and meditation
- Two dinners and two breakfasts cooked by Sam Switzer

Not included:
- Ski passes
- Lunch on Friday or Saturday
- Transportation
- Gratuity for Sam and the inn staff
- Lodging tax
- Thursday dinner and Friday breakfast, unless you add them

Lodging is booked separately by calling the inn and mentioning Joanna Dunn's group. Tuition is non-refundable, an early registration discount applies, and payment plans can be arranged if needed. Check the cancellation policy before you commit.