Living at Great Tree

We respectfully ask that everyone who stays at Great Tree  participate fully in the Great Tree practice schedule which begins at 6am. Lights out is at 10:00pm.

Great Tree offers modest, clean lodging and  provides macrobiotic vegetarian meals. You may be asked to share in the preparation of meals, facility clean up or outdoor work periods during your stay as sanga practice.

We do not have a paid staff. We do not offer guest lodging on a commercial basis to the public and we provide accommodations only for retreat students, teachers and visitors who are asked  to follow the practice schedule during their stay.

If we fill our sleeping spaces for a retreat, you may opt to commute or tent camp. We ask that everyone fully participate in the schedule and meals, as group activities are important part of  practice.

There is no fee reduction if you commute or camp.

Rooms and bathrooms are shared, dormitory style. We have no accommodations for couples.  Men and women are housed separately. Students provide their own bedding, bath linens to reduce impact on our water use.

We ask that everyone remove their shoes before entering the building. You may wish to bring slippers or socks.

Driveway and Parking

We are located in a rural, though not remote area in the mountains of North Carolina, about 30 minutes west of Asheville  and 15 minutes from Weaverville, North Carolina.

The temperature is generally mild, nights cool, except in July and August. Our elevation is about 2500 feet above sea level. Mountain weather can change rapidly, bringing thundershowers  year round, snow from  late November and as late as April.

Our driveway is a gravel and near the end, a steep incline.  It is one way. Please drive mindfully. It is important during t wet weather, especially in  winter months to be aware that roads may become icy  and our driveway can be a challenge.

Please call for instructions during bad weather conditions.