Harwood Lodge weekend retreat
We are excited to invite you to a special 3-day trip to Harwood Lodge, sponsored by the Hearts For Sight Foundation! In collaboration with the Sierra Club, this weekend is all about enjoying nature, building connections, and sharing experiences between visually impaired individuals (VIPs) and sighted guides.
About Harwood Lodge:
Nestled in the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains, Harwood Lodge is a historic mountain retreat located near Mt. Baldy, California. Built in 1930, the lodge offers a peaceful escape in the Angeles National Forest, with a cozy atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, the lodge is easily accessible, yet feels like a remote getaway perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s the perfect setting for our weekend of shared activities, from hikes to relaxation by the fireplace.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday, November 9, 2024 thru Monday, November 11, 2024
- Location: Harwood Lodge, San Gabriel Mountains
- (Approximately 1.5 hours from downtown Los Angeles)
- Who’s Invited: Visually impaired individuals (VIPs), sighted guides, and volunteers! Please read RSVP instructions below.
Sighted guides:
Volunteers are welcome and appreciated! You can volunteer for the entire weekend or just for the hikes during the day.
Hiking Options:
- Robust Hike: Manker Flats Rd / Three Ts Trail to Thunder Mountain
- Distance: 6 miles
- Elevation: 3000 ft gain / 1400 ft loss
- Chairlift down from The Notch
- Relaxed Hike: Manker Flats Rd to San Antonio Falls Overlook
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Elevation: 400 ft gain/loss
We’ll be hiking on paved roads, and VIPs will be paired with sighted guides. It’s a great opportunity to share meaningful time outdoors!
At the Lodge:
After the hikes, we’ll unwind at the lodge with great conversation, games, and shared meals. All meals will be provided, but meal preparation, service, and clean-up will be shared activities among participants. It’s a chance to connect and create lasting memories in a collaborative and relaxing environment.
Important Details:
- Only guide/service dogs are permitted (no pets).
- This trip is for adults only (no minors).
- Spots are limited to 35 on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Volunteers Needed: We especially appreciate sighted guides who can assist during hikes and at the lodge.
- Hearts for Sight (HFS) will provide transportation to Harwood Lodge. Advance RSVP is required.
RSVP Instructions:
Please email hearts4sight@gmail.com with the subject line “Harwood Lodge Weekend RSVP.” Include your full name, contact details, and guest’s information.
A $25.00 deposit per person is required to secure your spot.
Send deposits via Zelle to hearts4sight@gmail.com.
We hope you’ll join us for a weekend filled with adventure, connection, and community. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, there’s something for everyone!
Looking forward to seeing you at Harwood Lodge!