An interactive trail to create and make memories in a forest setting
Our interactive forest trail has been inspired by the ancient practices of forest bathing, land art, and meditation. They are designed to engage adults and children alike and are the perfect way to slow down and learn how to truly embrace the healing and beauty that exists within nature.
Interactive Stations
Throughout the trail you will find different stations that encourage you to connect and create with nature. Some of the experiences you may enjoy include:
- Building a log structure
- Making a wish to the fairies
- Drumming in our forest music set
- Drawing on our outdoor chalkboards
- Exploring the smells of the forest
- Hunting for hidden fairies and elves
- Much more!!
Benefits
Spending time in nature in a slow, relaxed, and mindful manner can be a valuable tool for our health and wellness. Individuals who spend more time in nature often experience:
- Enhanced immune system
- Lowered stress levels
- Peace of mind
- Focused time in our relationships
- Inspiration & Divine Guidance
We are blessed with a beautiful forest that has a unique set of qualities. Most of the plants are safe to touch. We don’t see a lot of poison ivy or poison oak so it is a beautiful safe place for children to play.
The makeup of our forest is also not a conducive environment for ticks. They could still be present, but we don’t see too many of them here. The main nuisance we experience is mosquitoes which are strongest on days right before and after rain.
Magical Forest
We have spent much time honoring and loving not only the the plans and animals within our forest, but also all of the elemental energy that exists within it. Many visitors describe our forest as magical. There is a feeling and energy here that cannot be described in words and it is common for our guests to have emotional and spiritual experiences that have positive impacts for many years to come.
Throughout the forest there are many fairies, elves, dragons, and special creatures to find if you look really closely. Many of our guests also like to leave behind their own fairies, elves, and sparkly toys for them to play with. We encourage all of our guests to bring a small token with them to hide in the forest during their walk!
How To Visit
We find the experience is best (and also safest in the current times) when walked alone or with your immediate family or close friends. We don’t want you to feel crowded or rushed in any way. The best experience is to move slowly, to meander and explore, and to allow your creativity and thoughts to be free flowing.
So, with that in mind, we have created a scheduling system that allows each guest/group to sign up for a specific time that allows them to utilize the trail all on their own. We have created arrival times in 1 hour intervals that ensure ample spacing and privacy for your experience.
Here’s the details:
- Schedule an appointment time below. This is the time that you are expected to arrive at the trail. Please keep your groups to your immediate family or groups of less than 5.
- Upon arrival, park in the designated parking area.
- Follow the signs to the beginning of the Artful Forest Trail.
- Walk the trail in a clockwise direction to ensure that you do not pass any other guests that may be on the trail (follow the signs).
- Enjoy your time on the trail. You do not need to be finished within 1 hour, as the next guests that arrive will be walking in the same direction so you should not meet. If you do meet others, please follow appropriate social distancing guidelines.
- Most of the activities do not require any contact with shared items. However, there are a few stations where we do have shared supplies. If you would like to avoid all contact we recommend bringing the following items with you:
- Chalk
- A Ribbon
- Hand Sanitizer
- An outhouse is available before the start of the trail. This washroom includes a composting toilet and a sink with water and hand sanitizer. It is cleaned once per day, but is not cleaned between each use. NOTE: It is closed during winter months. We recommend that you wash or sanitize your hands before and after use of the washroom.
Who Is Welcome
All human beings are welcome on the trail. It is designed for all ages and is a fairly easy walk. The trail is a forest floor, so it is not paved.
You MUST have an appointment to visit. This is a private property and for the safety of our family and guests we do NOT permit any guests on the trail or property who do not have an appointment. Please do not walk-in or arrive unexpectedly.
If you are coming with children. Please know that the trail can be tricky in some spots for strollers, so you may prefer to bring a carrier instead. There are some places with low level water, so if you have an explorer in your family you may wish to bring an extra pair of clothes.
What to Bring
Our trail is in a covered forest, so dress appropriately. If you don’t spend a lot of time in forests here are a few suggestions:
- Lightweight long sleeve shirt and pants
- Closed toed shoes
- Bug Spray or clothing
- Water Bottle
- Chalk
- Ribbon
- Fairy or Elf figurine, toy, or token
Sunscreen is typically not needed on the trail because it is almost entirely covered by the tree canopy.
What NOT to Bring
This forest is our home and very dear to our hearts. We love it and all the beings in it. We ask that all visitors give it the same love that we do. For that reason please leave the following at home as they are NOT permitted on our trail or property:
- Pets: We share the space with many wild animals and the smell of domestic animals on the trail can draw in some large visitors. For the safety of your pets, other visitors, and our young family we ask that you leave your pets at home.
- Alcohol: This is a safe family space. Alcohol is NOT permitted on the trail nor in the parking area.
- Cigarettes, Marijuana, Vaporizers, Recreational Drugs: Smoking and recreational drug use is strictly prohibited on the property.
- Food & Garbage: If you wish to enjoy a snack while on the trail please make sure you bring all garbage home with you. Leaving food and garbage on the trail attracts bears and hurts both our land and our family. We ask that you please respect the land as if it were your home and take everything with you when you leave.
Pricing
We know this is a difficult time for many families. Not only due to limited activities but also due to financial challenges. If your family is really struggling, please feel free to select the Family in Need Pass and enjoy the trail without worrying about your bank account. If your family has been really fortunate please consider our Good Will Trail Pass that allows you to sponsor another family!
You may choose from any of the 3 options when booking your appointment on the trail.
- Family Karma Pass: Free
- Family Trail Pass: $10 per family
- Good Will Trail Pass: $20 per family (Includes Family Trail Pass for your family and sponsors the visit of a family in need)
All passes are non-refundable. You may change your reservation to another date prior to arrival if desired.
Book Your Trail Time
Please book a start time for your group. In the event that you need to cancel or change an appointment please email us at info@soulinstitute.ca.
Karma Pass: You will see an option for this when you click on a date 🙂
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