Write on the Rock Retreat
Join an intimate group at Eldred Rock Lighthouse for four days of writing and reflection.
Eldred Rock is the oldest original lighthouse in Alaska and is located in the Lynn Canal between Juneau and Haines. After years of work, the lighthouse is now able to host overnight guests in comfortable but rustic accommodations.
Much of the writing time on The Rock will be generative. However, there will be daily meetings, reflections, readings, and instruction. We’ll be focused on place-based writing and all work will be informed by THE ANTI-RACIST WRITING WORKSHOP by Felicia Rose Chavez and CRAFT IN THE REAL WORLD by Mathhew Salesses.
Before the retreat expect:
A detailed packing list
A pre-retreat zoom with other participants
Access to a group chat for goal setting
A one-on-one zoom meeting with Marie to plan your time and ask questions
At the retreat, expect
Helicopter transportation to and from The Rock for you and up to nine other guests
A flexible schedule, heavily emphasizing writing generation
Multiple daily optional reflective activities and gatherings
Daily optional workshops about place-based writing
Spaces around the lighthouse tailored to solo writing
Fully prepared meals, snacks, and beverages
Shared room accommodation
Indoor toilets
Some running water (showers if you are very committed)
Power for charging computers
Limited internet
Limited cell service (host will have a satellite phone in case of emergency)
After the retreat, expect
Shared dinner in Juneau with the group
Incredible memories
Immersive writing created by you
A follow up zoom session to debrief
Access to a private group chat to continue your work
Feel free to add extra days in Juneau or other places in Southeast Alaska to round out your vacation
You provide
Transportation to Juneau
Accommodations in Juneau before and after the retreat if needed
Closed toe shoes/boots, and waterproof boots if possible
A sleeping bag and pillow (we can arrange this for you if needed)
Any special food you may need
Drinks beyond beer, wine, and standard NA beverages
As a reminder, ELDRED ROCK IS A WILD AND UNPREDICTABLE PLACE. This is a huge part of the beauty and magic of the retreat. But it can be uncomfortable for people depending on your expectations. Transportation is entirely determined by the weather. Walking surfaces vary from smooth and paved to rocky and uneven to steep and dangerous. We will have basic first aid supplies, but a medical emergency will necessitate a helicopter call out, for which you would be responsible. Trip insurance is highly recommended. If you have limited mobility, please contact Marie to see if we can make Eldred Rock a safe and accommodating place for you.
Want to know more about Eldred Rock and the surrounding area?
https://www.eldredrocklighthouse.org/
https://hearthsidebooks.com/search?q=clara%20nevada
https://alaska.guide/channel/lynn-canal
Your Host
Marie Ryan McMillan is the author of VIOLET TEMPLE PULLS THE OH CRAP STRAP, the first book in the Alaska Menopausal Mystery Series. She’s lived in Alaska since 1991, and in Juneau since 2005. A longtime teacher and instructional coach, she’s worked extensively as a thought partner with people seeking to improve their craft. She also hosts the GREAT BOOKS, GREAT LAND podcast where she hears from the readers and writers of Alaska about how the landscape impacts creativity. As part of Eldred Rock Lighthouse Preservation Association, she’s spent much time on The Rock working on its restoration.
Please sign up for updates, including upcoming dates, the application process, and costs.
If you are an Alaskan writer and would like to join us, contact Marie for information about the Locals Only Retreat
