TRAVEL INFORMATION

TRAVEL FORM |  CHECKLIST | MAP  |  FAQs

Please familiarize yourself with the location and travel options for getting to the Illuman of Minnesota summer retreat. Past experience has taught us that many people underestimate travel time. Arrange your plans so that you arrive early and are able to get settled before the event begins. It is very important that we start on time with everyone present. Be sure to take into account the possibility of accidents and roadwork that might delay your arrival.

TRAVEL FORM

If you’re traveling by air, please use our travel form to arrange transportation from the airport to the retreat.
Questions? Contact Paul Lyons, 612-803-8889.

TRAVEL CHECKLIST

  • Sleeping bag or twin-size sheets/blankets

  • Pillow

  • Towel

  • Usual toiletry items including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.

  • Earplugs

  • Additional casual clothing as needed

  • Jacket

  • Rain gear

  • Hat (important for sun protection)

  • Swimsuit

  • Durable shoes appropriate for hiking and walking

  • Journal/notebook with a pen or pencil

  • Water bottle

  • Flashlight

  • Day pack

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Tweezers (to remove ticks)

  • Any drum (or percussion instrument) you care to bring. No experience required. If you have an extra drum, label it and bring it for someone else to use. Other rhythm instruments are encouraged too.

  • Extra snacks and drinks to share (no hard alcohol)

  • One or two favorite books to share or donate

LOCATION MAP

OSPREY WILDS ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

54165 Audubon Drive, Sandstone, MN 55072

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where is the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center?

Founded in 1968, Osprey Wilds is an environmental center, located on the shores of Grindstone Lake, about halfway between Duluth, MN and the Twin Cities.  It is a 780-acre sanctuary, with a combination of lake shore, stream, wetlands, grassland and forest. For more information & directions visit ospreywilds.org. Emergency numbers are 888-404-7743 or 320-245-2648.  Please leave this information with people before you leave home. Cell phone coverage is limited in this area. If you need to contact someone upon your arrival, please bring a calling card to reach them.

What is the weather like there?

June is pristine vacation weather in northern Minnesota. The temperature usually averages between 70-80, although some years have reached the 90s or dip into the 60s. It can be humid during this time of year, but don’t worry the sleeping quarters are air-conditioned and a dip into the lake is always refreshing. The biggest concerns may be mosquitoes (be sure to pack plenty of bug repellent) and deer ticks/wood ticks (which can be a nuisance or sometimes dangerous).

What do I need to bring?

Please see the travel checklist above on this webpage for what to bring.

What are the accommodations at the Audubon Center?

Accommodations are in the Crosby Lodge. we encourage you to bring your own bedding, pillow, and towel. You must bring your own sleeping bag or sheets/blankets for a twin mattress. (If you are traveling by plane bedding, pillow, towel and a washcloth is available for a $12 fee. Please indicate your bedding request on the travel form.)  You will share a room with other men. Each room is air-conditioned, features solid wood bunks, and has its own bathroom facilities. If you are a person who snores (at a level that would disturb others), please communicate this on the Medical Information form required to complete your registration.

Who do I contact if you are delayed?

If you are delayed, contact Paul Lyons, 612-803-8889.

Are there places available to stay before and/or after the retreat?

If you need accommodations before and/or after the retreat, we recommend that you Google hotels near Minneapolis/St. Paul airport. There are a variety of hotels, from the inexpensive to the elaborate. Nearly all have shuttle service to/from the airport.

Are there any resources available to prepare for the retreat?

You may find it helpful to visit the Illuman website. You also can find additional materials at the Center for Action and Contemplation and its on-line bookstore at www.cacradicalgrace.org. Or, contact the CAC Resource Center by phone at (505) 247-1636 to order these and other materials.