Buena Vista,Colorado
Step away to hear what matters most.
A 5-day retreat in the Rocky Mountains for youth ministers seeking space to listen, reflect, and follow God’s lead.
EVENT DETAILS
October 12-16,2026
- Early Registration:(through June 1)$669
- Standard Registration:(June 2–September 18)$694
- Late Registration:(September 19 and after)$714
Explore the experience
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What Wilderness Is
Wilderness is a 5-day retreat in the Rocky Mountains designed specifically for youth ministers. It’s not about adding more to your plate—it’s about stepping back to rediscover why you do what you do. Through rest, solitude, and intentional conversations, you’ll have space to listen for God’s voice and find renewed strength to follow His lead.
Small Groups That Matter
At the heart of Wilderness are small groups. You’ll be placed with 6–7 other youth ministers and a mentor—creating a space where you can be honest, known, and challenged. These aren’t lectures or surface-level conversations. Each day, your group will process real questions about life, calling, and ministry together.
Mentorship That Continues
Every mentor at Wilderness is actively serving in ministry and deeply invested in youth pastors. Their role isn’t to teach from a stage—it’s to guide conversations and walk alongside you. After the retreat, they’ll continue to check in throughout the year—offering encouragement, support, and accountability as you live out what God is doing in your life.
Spiritual Practices
Throughout the week, you'll engage in rhythms that help you slow down and listen. ▪ Journaling ▪ Prayer ▪ Solitude ▪ Silence ▪ Meditation ▪ Worship ▪ Listening to the Holy Spirit
Spring Canyon Conference Center
26000 CR 344 #2047
Buena Vista, CO 81211
The retreat is at the Spring Canyon Conference Center near Buena Vista, Colorado (about two and a half hours from Denver International Airport). The location is a pristine wilderness with Aspen groves, mountain streams, meadows, and peaks from 12,000 to 14,000 feet. Wilderness is designed to provide time away from the office, phone, internet, emails, committee meetings, deadlines, and the pressures of daily responsibilities. Rest in the solitude of the wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, including opportunities for hiking, fishing, or simply discovering a quiet place to think and talk with God. There are also interactive discussions with other youth ministers on issues that matter most.
Questions?
We have answers.
