Our Philosophy
At The Sitka Writers Retreat, we believe in the power of nature to inspire creativity and promote holistic well-being, and we take seriously our responsibility to protect and be good stewards of this land. As educators teaching for over thirteen years in Sitka, it is our mission to provide a restful, supportive space for individuals and to lead participants in thoughtful endeavors that rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit while fostering a deep appreciation for Sitka's natural environment.
2025 Participant Testimonials
"This retreat reignited the spark that keeps me writing. I have always loved being in the woods, but there is something so special about a temperate rain forest: the ancient trees, the softness beneath our feet, the infinite shades of green, and the quiet to contemplate within."
"I loved going into the rain forest, finding a perch, and writing in the moment. Nature's soft embrace was so nurturing, and the words flowed, all the more significant because I'd been frozen, blocked, and simply not writing for too long."
"The lodgings were perfect, quiet, convenient, and comfortable, and the cookout and sauna were a great way to spend the last evening."
What's Included:
Daily Writing Workshops
Morning and afternoon writing sessions with Amy Butcher and Brendan Jones, who have been teaching together in Sitka for over a decade and who have, between them, published four books and hundreds of articles, essays, and stories. Enjoy creative writing lessons and master classes, generative writing prompts, discussions on craft, and the magic of an intimate literary community of creative writers!
Daily Yoga and Meditation Classes
Optional morning and evening yoga and meditation classes led by inspired yoga instructor Colleen Byers, who has over a decade of experience leading bodywork, breathwork, and mindfulness classes across America.
On Site Lodging
Enjoy a room with a view in the heart of Sitka, Alaska. All lodging is located on the beautiful Sitka Fine Arts campus.
On Site Meals
All meals are provided at the Sitka Fine Arts Cafe on campus excepting occasional dinners and breakfasts with retreat participants at Sitka's finest restaurants, bakeries, and cafes.
Yoga Supplies
We'll supply the mats, blocks, and all additional props needed to relax and restore!
Shuttle Transportation
Need a ride? Take our shuttle to destinations around town. Almost everything in Sitka is only a five minute drive!
Evening Fireside Beach Bonfire and Reading
Enjoy an oceanside bonfire, reading, and conversations with retreat participants to celebrate our final night!
Guided Tongass National Forest Walks
Enjoy guided wilderness walks and hikes with a National Park Service Certified trail guide who grew up in Sitka and has completed dozens of hikes across the globe.
Sea Excursion
Enjoy a scenic marine wildlife cruise with one of our trusted local guides. You are almost certain to catch sight of whales, sea lions, otters, and more!
Trip To Goddad Hot Springs
Set sail with us for Goddard Hot Springs and enjoy one of Sitka locals' favorite hidden gems, only accessible by boat!
Tongass National Forest
The ocean, forest, and land surrounding you is in the heart of the Alaskan portion of Tongass National Forest, home to Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian Tribes since time immemorial.
What's Not Included:
Travel
Writers are responsible for their own travel plans to the retreat. Please keep in mind that Sitka is located on Baranoff Island, and as such, all travel to Sitka is by air or ferry via the Alaska Marine Highway.
Travel Insurances
We do not supply travel insurance, health insurance, or medevac insurance. We recommend you purchase your own in case of emergency before traveling. Sitka is a remote location with only a 25-bed emergent access hospital.
Taxi Service
Sitka offers only fourteen miles of paved road, and most everything is accessible by foot. We are happy to offer shuttle rides during down hours between events, but we cannot function as a private taxi service. Please let us know if you'd like more information on rental car availability in Sitka.
Fast Food or Chain Store
Sitka is a unique space without fast food or chain stores, with the exception of one hardware store.
Rain Gear
You'll need rain boots and rain jackets to enjoy your visit to this temperate rainforest, but don't worry! If you forget, Sitka offers a handful of stores that stock sturdy gear! We've also provided a packing list, below, to ensure you arrive prepared!
Packing List
Sitka, Alaska is located on Baranoff Island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and Tongass National Forest. The Tongass is a temperate rainforest with an average temperature year-round of 55°, though temperatures fluctuate between the 30s to 70s depending on the weather and time of year. During the month of May, when our retreat is held, the average temperature is 40°-60°. Sitka enjoys an occasional sunny day, but the most common weather in the rainforest is, of course, misting rainfall! To ensure you arrive prepared and remain comfortable, we've compiled the following packing list:
Rainforest Appropriate Outerwear and Layers:
Mid-Thigh or Knee Length Rain Jacket with Hood
Knee High Rain Boats or Tall Waterproof Hiking Boots
Gloves and Hat
Waterproof Backpack (and/or purse, totes)
Puffer Jacket
Fleece Jacket or Vest
Long Pants, Shorts
Sleeveless, Short Sleeved and Long Sleeved Tops
Sweatshirt and/or Sweater
Indoor:
House Slippers
Yoga Wear
Comfortable Lounge Wear
Robe
Casual Wear for Dinners and Readings
Extra Throw Blanket if preferred
Extra Pillow if preferred
Hot Springs & Optional Ocean Dips:
Swimsuit
Water Shoes
Personal Swim Towel
Optional: Neoprene Booties and Gloves
Class and Writing Supplies:
Phone, Computer, Tablet and Chargers
Notebook, Pen
Excursions:
Camera
Waterproof Backpack
Reusable Water Bottle (Sitka's water is rated top in the nation!)
Sealed Snacks
Health:
Prescription Medications
Medivac Insurance
