Kripalu Outdoors: Snowshoeing and Yoga

Kripalu Outdoors: Snowshoeing and Yoga is an active winter yoga retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It pairs multi-level snowshoeing on the snow-covered trails behind the campus with Kripalu Yoga, forest meditations and deep relaxation. It suits both experienced snowshoers and curious beginners who want a winter weekend in nature with a steady yoga practice.

The program is part of Kripalu's Nature & Earth-Based Wisdom offerings and is led by Kripalu faculty and mindful outdoor guides. Depending on the session, the faculty include Tracy Foster, Ami Jean Aubin and Katie Hagel.

What to Expect

The days follow a clear rhythm. Mornings begin with a Kripalu Yoga class from 6:30 to 7:45, followed by a silent breakfast. The first program session runs from 9:00 to 11:30 and is typically the time on snowshoes or, when snow is thin, on foot. Lunch is from 11:30 to 1:30, and a second program session runs from 1:30 to 4:00. A Kripalu Yoga class from 4:45 to 6:00 comes before dinner, served from 5:30 to 7:30.

Arrival day begins with check-in at 2:00 pm, then a yoga class, dinner and an evening program session from 7:30 to 9:00. On the closing day, you practice yoga in the morning, have a silent breakfast and attend a final program session from 9:00 to 11:00. Lunch and departure follow at 11:30.

Snowshoeing is offered at different levels, so you can choose the pace and distance that suit you. Between outings there are expansive forest meditations, tranquil yoga classes to balance body and mind, and spacious activities for connecting with yourself. Snowshoes and poles are provided. If snow coverage is poor, the group hikes instead.

About the Faculty

Tracy Foster, Ami Jean Aubin and Katie Hagel teach on the Kripalu faculty. Each session is led by two of them, and the presenters change with the dates you choose. Tracy Foster leads on both winter dates, with Ami Jean Aubin on one and Katie Hagel on the other.

The Setting

Kripalu sits in the Berkshires near Stockbridge, with miles of winding trails and wide vistas just outside its back door. Accommodations are intentionally simple, designed to help you unplug and feel grounded. You can choose a private room for solitude or a community-style dorm for connection with other guests. Rooms are ready by 4:00 pm, and a luggage room is available if you arrive earlier.

Meals are three a day, including a silent breakfast. On the day of departure, room check-out is at 10:00 am, and you are welcome to stay on campus and take part in workshops until 2:00 pm.

Before You Go

The program is open to all levels. Snowshoeing is multi-level, and the yoga classes are accessible to practitioners of varying experience. It is taught in English in the Kripalu Yoga tradition.

Your stay includes more than ten daily yoga classes, three nutritious meals a day, access to the Kripalu grounds, and the snowshoes and poles. Healing Arts treatments and purchases from the Kripalu Shop and Cafe are not included, though the treatments are a natural complement to the program. Actual times may vary, so check the guest boards or the schedule you receive at check-in for details and room locations.