“If we surrendered to earth’s intelligence
                             We could rise up rooted, like trees. – Ranier Maria Rilke

Rune Hill’s 186-acre nature preserve provides an intriguing landscape for nature explorers and soul-seekers alike.  Graced by special beauty and unusual diversity, most of rolling acres of mixed habitat is held in conservation easement by the Finger Lakes Land Trust, the largest environmental group in the region devoted to conservation and preservation.  

The magical spaces include wildflower meadows, mixed hardwood and coniferous woods, streams, ponds, waterfalls and wetlands.  Flood plain, valley and glacial moraine hills are all part of the dramatic environment at Rune Hill.  White pines, black walnuts and red maples inhabit the land.  Fossil stones, flowing streams and spirits invite you to listen to their voices, drink the waters of their wisdom and embrace the heart of the earth, and find your own in the process of reconnecting to the natural, wild world.

Wildlife include deer, wild turkey, hawks, owl, gray and red fox, coyote, raccoon, rabbits, muskrat, beaver, mink, skunk and the occasional bear.  More than 80 species of birds have been seen here and the summer wildflower fields and woods are alive with their songs.  The meanest critter on the land is domestic – a rooster who rules the barn, which is also home to hens, turkeys, horses, goats, cats and hundreds of barn swallows.

A large organic garden supplies retreat center guests with abundant vegetables during the growing season.

Rune Hill is a small retreat center with carefully maintained but rustic facilities.  It has ample space for camping alongside beautiful creeks and on top of valley vistas.  There are three wood-sided cottages for group retreats and individual retreats.  Two cabins have beautiful views of the valley, one is nestled in trees and close to a lively creek.  All the cabins are heated by wood stove and have sleeping for three or four.  One cabin, Hawks View, has a microwave, small fridge and composting toilet.  This cabin is generally used by people on individual retreat.   There is an outdoor shower for all guests.

Please note: There is no cell phone reception at Rune Hill.
 


For classes and gatherings, a fully insulated Yurt and a covered Pavilion with kitchen are available.  A barrel-shaped wood burning Finnish sauna sits next to the swimming pond, and is available for guests and students to use.

Click Here for Directions to Rune Hill