Program

The 2017 Earth Vase Pilgrimage in the Smoky Mountains will begin and end at the Enlightenment Stupa at Milarepa Retreat Center, just on the border of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.  This year’s journey will be moderate and easy in its intensity. Pilgrims should expect to walk only a few miles a day, and several days will be stationary.  Backcountry camping standards will be the norm, bring your own equipment if possible.

DAY O, AUGUST 17

All pilgrims must plan to arrive at Milarepa Retreat Center

DAY 1, AUGUST 18

Orientation, Equipment, Group Introductions, Introducing the Work that Reconnects.  Walking the land.  Public program in the evening on Pilgrimage.

DAY 2, AUGUST 19

Departure to the trailhead.  A few hours of hiking to the campsite.  Retreat Practices

DAY 3, AUGUST 20

A few hours of hiking, Retreat Practices.

DAY 4, AUGUST 21

Total Solar Eclipse, Vase Installation, Retreat Practices

DAY 5-7, AUGUST 22-24

Retreat Practices and Additional Vase Installations

DAY 8, AUGUST 25

Return to Milarepa Retreat Center, Welcome Party at Top of the World overlooking the Smokies

For those wishing to stay through the weekend, Eden will be offering a program in relational mindfulness at the Lotus Light Building in Knoxville, July 26-27.