Zion National Park All Populations Retreat

All adult survivors grieving the loss of a loved one who served in the U.S. Armed Forces are warmly invited to join the Zion National Park All Populations Retreat. We will explore the wildernesses of our earth and our emotions alongside fellow survivors in Zion National Park. Nature and grief can both often feel vast and un-navigable, but we know that having good guides makes all the difference. So, regardless of where you are in your grief journey or where you are with your outdoor skills, we invite you to join TAPS facilitators and professional outdoor guides as we learn new ways to look at, and move through, some of the world's most inspiring landscapes.

Overview

If you’re looking for tangible, nature-focused ways to explore living after loss, join us in Zion National Park, where we'll immerse in and explore vast canyons, forested mesas and a labyrinth of desert wilderness, taking inspiration from our peers and surroundings to heal, grow and make meaning of our shared loss and grief.

TAPS Retreats use a combination of mindful movement, outdoor recreation and education and creative expression to facilitate meaningful experiences that prioritize peer bonds, coping skills and remembering our loved ones.

Hosted in partnership with National Park Trust and the National Parks Service.

Who Should Attend

This retreat is open to all adult survivors of all relationships over the age of 18. Due to the unique nature of our events, this Retreat is intended for those survivors whose loss occurred more than 6 months ago. No camping or outdoor experience required.

Schedule

Day 1:  Travel Day, Evening welcome session

Day 2-4:   Facilitated group sessions and solo time - Please note the entirety of this event is outdoors.

Day 5:  Travel Day

Adventure Level

This retreat is rated Adventure Level 3, our High-intensity physical activity level, that will include active daily movement, walking up to 3-5+ miles and opportunities to challenge yourself. Please indicate any concerns or questions you have regarding physical challenges on the retreat in your application. Please click here to learn more about what you can expect based on adventure levels.

Event Details

Lodging

Camping at Watchman Campground in Zion National Park. Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping bag liners, and sleeping pads are provided. Participants will sleep in provided tents with at least one tentmate based on tent size or in their self-provided tent.  

Meals and Activities

Thanks to our generous donors, all meals and activities are provided at no additional cost. Meals will be prepared both at camp and catered.

Technology-free Environment

To stay present and fully engaged, we ask that cell phones and other devices not be used during programming and only for emergencies.

Transportation

Survivors are responsible for their own transportation to and from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, NV and a TAPS shuttle will transport you to and from Zion National Park. You will be required to arrive and depart during a pre-selected window of time. Parking is limited at Zion National Park. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you receive instructions from staff after your application has been approved. 

Personal Time

If you would like to explore the area or participate in activities outside of the Retreat, please plan to extend your visit before or after the scheduled Retreat times.

Application Process

Applications will open February 2 to February 9, 2026 There will be a blue button at the top of this page only while applications are open. All applicants will be notified of their selection or waitlist status via email. Those not initially selected will be placed on a waitlist and contacted as space becomes available

If you have any questions, please email adultprograms@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).