Where is the retreat being held?The retreat is being held at
Trinity Pines Camp & Conference Center located at 349 Cabarton Road in Cascade ID, which is approximately 2 hours from Boise Airport. When entering Cascade cross over the railroad tracks then turn left onto Cabarton Road (it switches back). Go one mile and the entrance to Trinity Pines is on your right. The camp sits right on the North Fork of the beautiful Payette River. Here is the
facility map.
What's the weather like this time of year?The average temperatures range from highs in the 40's to the 20's in the lows. Cascade's elevation is nearly 4,800 feet so snow is possible during this time. Please check the local weather the week of the retreat.
What's the attire?Comfortable. You will be outdoors walking between venues, and you may choose to wander on the trails. There may be snow on the ground. Comfortable trail shoes/boots are recommended. Bottom line this is not a fashion show. It's men getting together in nature.
What are the arrival and departure times?Arrival time for registration is 4pm on Thursday and departure time is 12pm on Sunday.
How is the program structured? What will the days and nights look like?The day will be broken out across family style meals, in-person sessions (1 to 1.5 hour long), “code of silence” periods, which is your time alone with God answering questions that we provide each day, and free time.
Will there be activities to choose from during free time?The camp typically provides access to archery, a challenge course, and nature trails which are all weather permitting. The property is expansive, and time alone outdoors is encouraged so please dress accordingly. There will be several fire pits tended throughout the property day and night. Also, your free time is just that...it's your time. Take time to get to know other men on the same walk, take naps, or just enjoy the solitude away from the daily distractions of busy life.
What are the accommodations like? We have
cottages that will be assigned which you will share with other men. Each cottage is carpeted throughout. The main floor features a group area, a kitchen, and three bedrooms that each contain an in-suite bathroom. Please note you will share a bedroom with other attendees. The second floor of each cottage varies slightly. Each has one bathroom upstairs to be shared by the one or two rooms on that floor. All beds throughout the cottages are queen or twin-size bunk style beds.
What if I want to share a room with a friend?Please contact Mike Courtney at cmcourtney@verizon.net with rooming requests and we will make every effort to accommodate.
Is there an RV area?Yes, you may bring and stay in your RV or camping trailer. Electrical and water hookups are available; however, the camp cannot guarantee water during the time of the retreat given the season. Highly recommended that your camper is self-sufficient with electricity and water.
What do I need to bring?You will need to furnish your own toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, etc.), towels, washcloth, pillows, and sleeping bags or bed linens (beds are twin or queen throughout the camp).
For those traveling from out of state, we will provide you with bedding and towels.
Will meals be served?Yes, there will be three meals served on Friday and Saturday, dinner only on Thursday, and breakfast only on Sunday. Meals will be served family style in a dining hall. You are free to bring your own snacks. There is an onsite “convenience shack” with some very basic essentials and snacks that will be open on a limited basis. Hours of operation will be shared upon arrival.
How will my special dietary needs be accommodated?Food Service personnel at Trinity Pines will work to meet all dietary needs (gluten, lactose, allergies, etc.), however, specific preferences or diet plans (e.g., vegan, vegetarian, etc.) cannot be addressed. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet each request. No private food can be prepared in Trinity Pines kitchen area due to cross-contamination. The kitchens are not allergen-free. A refrigerator and microwave are available on the first floor of the Conference Center for personal use.
Will I be able to use my electronics (I.e., phone, laptop, etc.)?Please remember that this weekend is a time to disconnect and not be on your devices.
You are encouraged to leave your devices in your cottages. Also please note, cell service is spotty in this remote area.
Is there an emergency contact number in case someone needs to reach me?Yes, you may call Trinity Pines office at 208-382-6200 or Trinity's Office Manager directly at 715-816-0820.
What are the prohibited items?Trinity Pines does not allow: alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, use of firearms (guns for use off camp property must be locked in your vehicle), candles, cutting of trees, pornographic material, or fireworks on the property. Any violations will result in immediate fines, removal from the retreat, and the forfeiture of registration fees.
Am I allowed to smoke?Trinity Pines does not allow smoking in any buildings, only in designated areas on the campground. Guests who choose to smoke in these areas are expected to pick up after themselves.
Where can I leave my vehicle while I am at Trinity Pines?Vehicles must be left in the
main parking lot next to the
Conference Center or in a designated parking area. You may load/unload at the cottages, but your vehicle must be moved back to the parking lot. We recommend that you keep your vehicle locked at all times while at Trinity Pines; we are not responsible for personal vehicles.
What are the quiet hours?To be respectful of our neighbors, quiet hours (I.e., music, loud noises, etc.) are in compliance with the city of Cascade ordinance: 10:30pm until 7:30am.
What if there is a serious injury or illness?The City of Cascade has a limited medical center about 2 miles from camp. A larger hospital is located in McCall, ID (28 miles north). Emergency transportation is available through local emergency response groups by dialing 9-1-1. Payment for the cost of emergency transportation is the responsibility of the guest.