Forest bathing—known in Japan as shinrin-yoku—has gained popularity in the United States as people search for ways to reconnect with nature and reduce stress. Unlike hiking or exercise, forest bathing focuses on slowing down, breathing deeply, and fully engaging the senses in natural surroundings. Retreats across the country now offer guided experiences where participants can immerse themselves in the healing power of forests. Forest bathing retreats provide a chance to pause, reflect, and restore balance in everyday life.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite’s towering granite cliffs and ancient sequoias make it one of the most awe-inspiring settings for forest bathing. Retreat programs in the park lead participants through mindful walks beneath the giant trees, encouraging a deeper connection with nature.
The stillness of Yosemite Valley, combined with the sound of rushing waterfalls, creates an ideal backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Visitors often describe the experience as grounding, offering perspective and calm that lingers long after leaving the park.
Green Mountains, Vermont
Vermont has long been known for its rolling hills, vibrant foliage, and quiet charm. In the Green Mountains, forest bathing spaces invite participants to wander through maple and birch groves, particularly stunning during autumn. Several sites are ideal for sensory awareness, from the crunch of leaves underfoot to the scent of pine in the air.
The slower pace contrasts with the busyness of modern life, allowing guests to notice details they might otherwise overlook. The region’s welcoming small towns add warmth to the experience.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America, making them a perfect destination for forest bathing. Retreats here often combine gentle guided walks with mindfulness practices like journaling or breathwork.
The mist that frequently lingers in the valleys adds to the sense of mystery and peace. For many participants, the rich diversity of plants and wildlife enhances the feeling of being immersed in something larger than themselves, fostering both calm and wonder.
Olympic National Park, Washington
On the Pacific Northwest coast, Olympic National Park offers some of the most lush and enchanting forests in the country. The Hoh Rain Forest, with its moss-draped trees and constant birdsong, is especially popular for forest bathing retreats.
The soft ground, thick canopy, and damp air create an immersive environment where every sense is engaged. Guided experiences here encourage participants to slow down to the pace of the forest, leaving behind digital distractions and reconnecting with the natural rhythm of life.
Adirondack Mountains, New York
In upstate New York, the Adirondacks provide a serene escape from city life. Forest bathing retreats in this region often take place near tranquil lakes surrounded by dense woodlands. The combination of water and forest creates a calming atmosphere that supports deep reflection.
Participants are encouraged to listen to the wind through the pines or watch ripples move across the surface of the lake. The Adirondacks highlight how accessible and restorative nature can be, even for those traveling from busy urban areas.
Redwoods of Northern California
Few places inspire as much awe as standing among California’s coastal redwoods. Forest bathing retreats here focus on the sense of scale, inviting participants to reflect on their place in the larger world. The towering trees, some thousands of years old, encourage mindfulness through their sheer presence.
Guided walks emphasize breathing slowly, noticing light filtering through the canopy, and listening to the subtle sounds of the forest. Many visitors find the experience transformative, describing it as both humbling and uplifting.
Finding Peace Through the Trees
Forest bathing retreats in the United States offer more than just scenic walks—they provide intentional spaces for healing, reflection, and calm. From the rain-draped trees of Washington to the fiery autumn woods of Vermont, these retreats highlight the restorative power of nature.
By slowing down and opening the senses, participants discover a deeper connection with themselves and the natural world. In a time when daily life often feels rushed and noisy, forest bathing is a gentle reminder that peace can be found among the trees.