Dry Creek Trail

Birdsong Backcountry Retreat’s mission is to help people recover their innate connection and love for nature, its flora, fauna and one another. Forest and Nature Therapy walks are based on a practice originating in Japan over 40 years ago, known as Shinrin-Yoku, a Japanese word that translates literally as “Forest Bathing”.
It is not a hike, but a very slow, mindful move through the natural environment. This slow walk calls all our senses into the present moment.

Our trails embody the topography and already-existing natural features to enhance your forest therapy experience. This includes incorporating the live oak forest, open spaces and areas with tree canopy, giant boulders and sweeping countryside vistas into your forest bathing experience.

At Birdsong, we have created 3 different ways to experience forest bathing, which are based on scientifically proven methodologies of connecting participants to nature in a profound way. You can choose to be guided by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide by appointment/fee (the most powerful way to experience it), by a downloaded MP3 audio guide, or by a printed guide.

Birdsong land is so beautifully wild. The only outdoor areas that have been developed are those directly surrounding the guest cabins, proposed parking spaces, and trails. During your visit, you will experience the unique biodiversity of the area, which may include encountering natural beehives, wild turkeys, rabbits, coyotes, hawks, vultures, songbirds, and a variety of native plant species. Except for the existing trail system and guest cabins, there is no sign of human impact. One can very easily go off trail and into the “wild” to experience an escape into the more-than-human-world. If you do feel called to go off trail to follow your curiosity and senses, practice awareness of where you step. We share the forest with other beings, including snakes, stickers and insects. If you have an encounter with one, simply leave the area.