FAQ
Explore answers to common questions about Shadowcliff and our offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a stay at Shadowcliff?
Below you'll find answers to common questions about visiting our mountain retreat center, including lodging, meals, accessibility, and planning your trip to Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park.
If you don’t see your question here, please reach out! We’re happy to help.
Shadowcliff is a seasonal nonprofit lodge and retreat center overlooking Grand Lake, Colorado, the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Founded in 1956 and built by volunteers beginning in 1959, Shadowcliff has welcomed guests for more than sixty years. Today we host individual travelers, retreat groups, artists in residence, and community gatherings.
Our mission is to hold space for individual and collective transformation, offering a peaceful environment where people can rest, reflect, gather, and reconnect with nature and community.
Shadowcliff is a seasonal retreat center. Our guest season typically runs from late May through late September, depending on weather and staffing.
Our buildings are not winterized, so the campus closes completely during the colder months. During the winter our staff focuses on planning programs, preparing the property, and coordinating the upcoming season.
Very close. Shadowcliff sits just outside the west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park in Grand Lake.
Two park trailheads—North Inlet and Tonahutu—are within walking distance of the lodge, making Shadowcliff an excellent base for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park.
Trail Ridge Road, the scenic highway crossing Rocky Mountain National Park, is also nearby during its seasonal opening.
Shadowcliff offers:
- Lodge rooms in Rempel Lodge and Cliffside Lodge
- Three private cabins: Overlook, Fireside, and Riverbend
Most lodge rooms include a queen bed and one or more bunk beds, and use shared bathrooms with private showers.
Cabins provide more privacy and include full kitchens.
Our accommodations are simple, comfortable, and rustic, reflecting the volunteer-built history of the property.
Yes. Shadowcliff is especially well suited for retreat groups of up to about 50 people.
We regularly host:
- Retreats and workshops
- Organizational gatherings
- Family reunions
- Educational programs
- Creative residencies
Groups can choose between all-inclusive retreats (lodging, meeting space, and meals) or lodging-only stays.
To inquire about bringing a group, please contact:
Gail Kerns
Administration & Guest Services Manager
[email protected]
We provide:
- Sheets and towels
- Soap in all showers
- Fully equipped guest kitchens in the lodges
- Full kitchens in the cabins
Most guests only need to bring food, personal items, and clothing for mountain weather.
Guest kitchens include dishes, cookware, utensils, coffee makers, microwaves, and major appliances. Most guests only need to bring food, personal items, and clothing suitable for mountain weather.
Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so we recommend bringing warm layers.
Charcoal and grilling supplies are not provided, though grills are available at some cabins (subject to fire restrictions).
Shadowcliff is a pet-free campus.
This policy helps protect both our guests and the local wildlife. Moose, bears, foxes, and other animals regularly pass through the property.
Service Animals, as defined under the ADA, are welcome. If you plan to bring a Service Animal, please notify us before arrival so we can prepare appropriately.
Wi-Fi is available in the lodges.
However, due to our remote mountain location, speed and reliability cannot be guaranteed.
Cell service varies by carrier and can be inconsistent, but it is generally available on campus and in town.
Many guests appreciate the opportunity to unplug during their stay.
Shadowcliff sits on a steep hillside overlooking Grand Lake, and the campus includes many stairs and uneven walking surfaces. Our buildings are historic and were constructed decades before modern accessibility standards.
At this time, Shadowcliff has limited accessibility.
Important details for guests with mobility considerations:
- There are many stairs throughout the property
- We do not have elevators
- We do not have designated accessible parking spaces
- The parking area is dirt and can be uneven
- Exterior walkways are wooden and stable but somewhat bumpy
- The main entrance to Rempel Lodge includes multiple stairs
- An alternate entrance provides a wooden ramp, but the door is heavy
- Bathroom spaces in the lodges are not wheelchair turning radius compliant
- Door widths may not meet current accessibility standards
- We do not currently have Braille signage or assistive navigation systems
Riverbend Cabin has the fewest stairs and may be the most manageable option for some guests.
We recognize that accessibility is important and are working to prioritize improvements as we plan for Shadowcliff’s future. If you have specific accessibility questions before booking, please contact us and we will do our best to help you determine whether the property will meet your needs.
Shadowcliff can sometimes host small, simple weddings, particularly for couples with a connection to the lodge through volunteering, retreats, or past stays.
Our chapel and outdoor spaces can be beautiful settings for intimate ceremonies. Because Shadowcliff is a nonprofit retreat center with a small staff, we are not equipped to host large or highly produced weddings.
If you are interested in a small ceremony or celebration, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss possibilities.
Grand Lake offers a wide range of outdoor and cultural experiences.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating on Grand Lake
- Performances at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre
- Classes at Rocky Mountain Folk School
- Scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road
- Wildlife viewing and photography
Shadowcliff is within walking distance of the historic Grand Lake village, restaurants, and shops.
Shadowcliff is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by a small year-round staff and seasonal team.
The retreat center was founded by Warren and Patt Rempel, whose vision was to create a welcoming mountain sanctuary where people could gather for reflection, learning, and community. In 2000, the Rempels ensured that Shadowcliff would continue as a nonprofit so it could remain accessible to people from many backgrounds and communities.