In 1994, the 500 acres that now make up Walking Lightly were a lesson in neglect and abuse.

But one man, with many friends and a family of hardworking beaver, transformed this piece of land into a haven. By healing the land he healed himself and now offers the ranch to others who need to retreat from one world—and commune with another.

Situated in the extreme north western corner of the state, the ranch is barely on the grid. State and National Forest border it on three sides, sheltering it from development and extending its hiking trails. The greenhouse and garden provide organic produce year-round. The beaver keep the spring-fed pond pristine by pulling weeds for their dams—and our compost. Mountain lion, bear, deer, moose and coyote make their homes on the ranch. A vast array of bird life, including Red Wing Blackbird, Goshawk, Blue Heron, Sandhill Crane, Golden Eagle and Osprey, swirl around the pond.

Ideally, visitors to Walking Lightly see and experience something here that they carry with them when they leave. Whatever grows here can be transplanted. (click here to read more)