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Packing for Your Wildheart Retreat
You won’t need a lot for your Wildheart Equine Retreat, but a little preparation will go a long way in helping you feel grounded, relaxed, and ready for the experience ahead.
This retreat is all about reconnecting—with yourself, nature, and the wisdom of horses. Here’s what you'll need to pack for our time together.
What to Wear
Colorado’s weather can change quickly, so think layers, comfort, and sun protection. Mornings are often spent in the arena with the horses, while afternoons include trail rides, nature walks, journaling by the river, or poolside lounging.
For Time with the Horses
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Closed-toe shoes, riding boots or cowboy boots (broken in!)
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Jeans or durable pants
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T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
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Cowboy hat or baseball cap
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Sunglasses
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Jacket and sweater (mornings and evenings can get cold)
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Waterproof jacket or poncho
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Sunscreen & insect repellent
For Relaxation + Free Time
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Comfy walking shoes or hiking boots
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Sandals or flip-flops
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Swimsuit for the heated pool
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Water bottle
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A good book
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Headphones or earbuds
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Phone charger
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Yoga clothes & mat (optional – mats also available at the ranch)
For the Evenings
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Casual dinner outfits (jeans & boots are perfect!)
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Cozy jacket or shawl for cool nights
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Comfy shoes and warm clothes for campfires
Pro tips
Boots
"Paddock boots" like the ones made by Ariat, Dover, or TuffRider are great options. Choose riding boots with a low heel and give yourself time to break them in before the retreat. Thrift stores can be a good place to find broken in cowboy boots! Sturdy tennis shoes work if you don't plan on doing any faster paced rides.
Hats
A wide-brim straw hat offers great sun protection and packs easily. Boot Barn has a fantastic selection of cowgirl hats. Felt hats work too, but they can be harder to pack and keep clean. Baseball caps work too!
Riding Pants
While jeans are classic and durable, they can sometimes cause chafing on longer or faster rides. If you plan to ride frequently during the retreat, consider wearing thick leggings or investing in riding-specific breeches. Brands like Kerrits offer supportive, long-lasting options, while FitsT4 Sports provides a simple, budget-friendly choice that’s perfect for this kind of trip.
Ranch Amenities
Food, Snacks & Drinks
Sylvan Dale Ranch provides delicious, homestyle meals daily—including options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Feel free to bring snacks, protein bars, or Gatorade for your cabin. Light snacks (candy bars, chips) are available for purchase at the gift shop.
Non-alcoholic drinks are included. Wine & beer is available for purchase during happy hour, or you can bring your own (BYOB is allowed in your cabin, not public spaces).
Wifi & Cell Service
We encourage unplugging—but we know you may need to stay in touch. WiFi is available at the main lodge, but cell service and in-cabin WIFI is spotty.
Verizon typically works best, while AT&T is limited to specific areas. Need to call home? There’s a house phone available 24/7 in the main lodge.
Lodging
Each room at Sylvan Dale is thoughtfully equipped for comfort and simplicity. You’ll find cozy bedding and warm blankets for cool mountain nights, along with fresh towels and basic toiletries including shampoo and conditioner.
If you prefer specific brands, feel free to bring your own. Hair dryers and styling supplies are not provided, so we recommend packing them if needed for your stay.
Outdoor Heated Pool
Bring your bathing suit and relax by the pool in the afternoons! Towels are provided for the pool.
Main Lodge
The main lodge is open all day to relax, meet with friends, and for our evening social gatherings.
Outdoor Activities
In addition to trail rides, you can enjoy relaxing by the river, hiking, casual walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors.
We Can’t Wait to Welcome You!
This retreat is your space to breathe, rest, and come home to yourself. You’re stepping into something powerful—and we’re honored to hold that space for you.
Get ready to feel more connected, more alive, and more you.
❤️ See you soon, Wildheart.