Walking Mountain Pilgrimage Sesshin with Bells Mountain

This retreat pairs backpacking with formal Zen practice—a structure that's uncommon enough to warrant explanation. The first week is a walking pilgrimage: 5–10 miles daily, in silence, with meditation built into movement. The second week anchors at a base camp for a traditional sesshin format: eight hours of daily zazen, chanting, and guided hiking.

The center has not yet published the full schedule, lodging details, what meals are provided, or whether prior sitting experience is expected. Contact Great Vow Zen Monastery directly for specifics on trail difficulty, what to bring, accommodations at base camp, or modifications available for those new to sesshin or long-distance walking.