For a variety of reasons, group retreats during the winter is a great idea to spend time with friends and family during the holiday season. The cold weather encourages solitude and reflection, and you can take advantage of the shooter days to truly unplug and withdraw from your daily routine while experiencing the fun activities and building unique bonds.
If you’re planning a winter retreat near Hendersonville and hesitate about the weather, we’ve put together a list of fun retreat activities you can do during the winter.
It May Be Cold, But Get Outside Anyway
Hosting a winter retreat doesn’t mean you have to stay inside. Even during the colder months, you can spend time outside by going on a hike, learning how to ski, or going sledding when it snows. No matter what the temperature is outside; there are endless winter activities to enjoy at Camp Tekoa.
Here are our favorite things to do during the winter months:
1. Blue Ridge Mountains
Plan a day hike or take a stroll to enjoy the beautiful views and wildlife in and around the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains cover over 600 square miles, with over 300 hiking paths and 5,052 peaks rising about 6,000 feet in elevation.
Camp Tekoa is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near Hendersonville, and has plenty of on-site hiking, such as the outer campsite loop, around the lake, the Eagle trail, or the meditation trail.
2. Ski and Snowshoe
There’s no better way to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains in the winter than by strapping on some skis or snowshoes and venturing out onto the slopes and trails. Skiing and snowshoeing are fun ways to be active while admiring Blue Ridge Mountains' unique and breathtaking scenery.
While Camp Tekoa has plenty of outdoor activities, we are just a short drive from a number of ski resorts and snowshoe rentals.
3. Enjoy a Scenic Drive
As the winter weather sets in and snow begins to cover Hendersonville and the Blue Ridge Mountains, a scenic driving excursion on the Blue Ridge Parkway to see wildlife and beautiful landscapes is the perfect way to spend your afternoon.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile road that weaves around the peaks of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and access to the area’s best hiking trails.
4. Play Fun Board Games On Cold Nights
Sometimes a friendly competition helps bring people closer together. One of the best ways to bring people together and have an unforgettable winter retreat is to play board games. Bring an enjoyable board game and card games for your group to enjoy at the retreat venue on those chilly nights. There are games for all ages, but among family and friends, Bingo, Monopoly, and Scrabble are favorites. Camp Tekoa has plenty of space for groups to host fun game nights.
5. You Can Find Ways to Exercise Outdoors
Just because it's winter doesn't mean you have to stay inside and skip your workout. Strap on some snowshoes and hike through the snow-covered Blue Ridge Mountains. During the winter, several retreat centers, such as Camp Tekoa, provide fun outdoor activities. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities that you can experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
6. Have a Campfire
When it’s cold outside, who doesn’t enjoy relaxing next to a warm fire? Bring your friends and family together for a cozy and fun campfire experience. Relax by the fire, tell stories while roasting marshmallows, or eat your favorite food.
The Laurel Back Porch at Camp Tekoa is one of the most popular areas in the camp. Spend a winter afternoon in the rocking chairs by the campfire, or host a gathering at the open-air pavilion with s'mores and active games.
It’s Time to Plan Your Next Winter Retreat
Camp Tekoa is hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, near Hendersonville. We are a summer camp and conference center with a wide range of fun activities and adventures. In the winter, we are a relaxing haven for warmth and comfort. Learn more about Camp Tekoa’s accommodations and amenities, or contact us if you have any questions.