Saturday, February 13, 2027 · 10:30 AM–3:30 PM · Parc national du Mont-Orford
$135 Early Bird (until January 16, 2027) · $150 regular · Lunch included · Park pass and snowshoe rental not included
By February, winter can start to feel long. Days blur together, and it’s easy to lose sight of what you actually care about. This day retreat is a chance to leave the city behind, walk quietly through the snowy forests of Mont-Orford, and take stock.
Led by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Moire Stevenson, the day weaves together snowshoeing, guided meditation, reflection, and group conversation, all centred on exploring your values: what matters most to you, and how you want to spend your time and energy.
What the day looks like
We’ll meet at the Le Cerisier service centre and head out onto the forest trails around 10:45 AM. As we snowshoe, we’ll pause for guided practices: meditation, forest bathing, and moving meditation, where you’ll learn to match your breath to the rhythm of your steps.
Snowshoeing also offers a useful lens on everyday life. Finding your footing on uneven ground, adjusting your pace on a climb, and noticing how you respond when the going gets harder can say a lot about how you meet challenges off the trail. We’ll use these moments as starting points for reflection and conversation.
We’ll stop briefly for snacks along the way to stay warm, and share lunch together in one of the chalets on the trail before continuing through the afternoon.
Why this retreat is different
- Guided by a licensed clinical psychologist. The practices are grounded in Dr. Stevenson’s clinical experience, so there’s real depth behind the reflection, without the day feeling like a therapy session.
- A full day, not a quick outing. Five hours gives you time to actually settle in, slow down, and think.
- A focus on values. Rather than simply relaxing, you’ll leave with a clearer sense of what matters to you.
- Everything is taken care of. Lunch is included, and we can help organize carpools from Montréal.
Meet your guide: Dr. Moire Stevenson
Dr. Moire Stevenson, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Mindfulness Outdoors. She holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Université de Montréal and an honours degree in Biology and Biochemistry from Dalhousie University, and her work brings clinical science together with nature-based practice. Alongside leading Mindfulness Outdoors, she works as a pediatric psychologist at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.
Moire believes that mindful time in nature is one of the best settings for working through difficult situations and understanding ourselves better. On the trail, she creates a warm, grounded space where you can slow down, reflect, and explore at your own pace.
What you may take away
You’ll leave with a few simple mindfulness practices you can use outdoors on your own, and more clarity about what you value. Research suggests that time in nature can lift mood and ease stress, and that practising mindfulness in natural settings may add to those benefits. Read more about why spending time in nature is good for your wellbeing on Moire’s blog.
Who it’s for
This retreat is for anyone who wants time to slow down and reflect, whether you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, or simply want a clearer sense of direction. No snowshoeing experience is needed: if you can walk, you can snowshoe.
You will need a reasonable level of fitness and endurance. We’ll be on our feet for a few hours, and some sections of the trail are steep. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with regular breaks, but you should feel comfortable walking uphill in snow for extended periods. Adults of all ages are welcome.
Prefer to hike rather than snowshoe? You’re welcome to, but depending on snow conditions, some sections may be difficult without snowshoes. If you’re unsure on whether this retreat is a good fit for you or your fitness level, we’ll be happy to talk it through – simply email us at contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org
Before you come
- Park pass: Your ticket doesn’t include park entry. You’ll need a daily access pass (about $9.85) unless you hold an annual Sépaq pass. Daily visitor numbers are limited, so we recommend buying your pass in advance (available up to 30 days ahead). Buy an access pass
- Snowshoe rental: Available at Le Cerisier for about $19 a day, no reservation needed. If you’re renting, please arrive by 10:00 AM so you’re ready to start on time. Rental information
- Getting there: Mont-Orford is about an hour and a half from Montreal. We can help organize carpools by emailing us at contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org
- Food: Lunch is provided. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions when you register. Bring water or a hot drink, plus snacks you can easily reach with mittens on.
- What to wear: Dress in warm layers suited to outdoor activity, and bring mittens, a hat, and a small backpack for snacks, water, and an extra layer. For tips, see Moire’s guide to staying warm and mindful outdoors in winter.
- Running late? Send a message in the event chat and we’ll help you find the group. Once we’re on the trail, messages will only be checked occasionally.
- Weather: In case of a blizzard, freezing rain, or unsafe icy conditions, the retreat will be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund if cancelled. Please keep this in mind when buying your park pass.
- Insurance receipts are available on request.
- Helpful links: Site web du parc · Trail map
If the ticket price feels out of reach, email us at contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org and we’ll be happy to explore options.
If you’ve been craving a day to breathe, think, and spend real time outdoors this winter, we’d love to have you with us on the trail.
