Sign of the Pines Retreat Yurt

Yes.

The yurt is heated by a pellet fireplace that keeps the space warm and comfortable year-round. Even when winter temperatures drop to -35°C, guests can enjoy a cozy indoor retreat.

Many guests find that curling up by the fire after a day outdoors becomes one of the most memorable parts of their stay.

Yes, in a limited way.

The yurt is powered primarily by solar energy and includes lighting, a small refrigerated cooler, and a portable solar charging system. Phones and small devices can be charged using the BioLite solar panel, though charging may be slower than what you're accustomed to at home, and charging times can vary depending on sunlight conditions.

Many guests enjoy the opportunity to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature while still having access to a few practical comforts. We encourage guests to embrace the gentler pace of an off-grid retreat and enjoy a break from everyday distractions.

Most major carriers have service on the property, though signal strength can vary depending on your provider and weather conditions.

Many guests choose to use their stay as an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy a slower pace for a few days.

No.

Sign of the Pines is designed as a place to slow down and disconnect from the demands of everyday life. Most guests find the break from constant notifications to be one of the most refreshing parts of their stay.

Yes.

The seasonal outdoor shower is located in a private enclosed space designed for comfort and privacy. There's something surprisingly refreshing about showering outdoors while surrounded by nature.

The yurt features a clean, modern composting toilet designed specifically for off-grid living.

It's simple to use, odour-controlled, and requires no flushing. Clear instructions are provided in the ensuite, and most guests find it much easier than they expected.

Yes.

The yurt is situated on a private 13-acre equine hobby ranch and is designed to offer a peaceful and secluded retreat experience. While the property is home to the owners, guests enjoy their own dedicated retreat area, outdoor living spaces, and access to private forest and meadows.

Many guests appreciate the balance of privacy, nature, and quiet that makes Sign of the Pines feel both comfortably hosted and wonderfully removed from the pace of everyday life.

The yurt accommodates up to three guests with one queen bed and one single bed.

The queen bed features a Tempur-Pedic mattress, while a separate single sleeping nook provides a cozy retreat for a third guest. The space is most often enjoyed by couples, solo travellers, or small families seeking a peaceful nature getaway.

Yes.

Children are welcome, provided the total number of guests does not exceed the yurt's maximum occupancy of three people.

Please note that we do not provide a crib or infant equipment, and children should be supervised at all times while enjoying the property and surrounding natural areas.

No.

To help maintain the comfort of all guests and protect the surrounding wildlife, pets are not permitted.

Yes.

Guests have access to a covered outdoor kitchen and dining area equipped with cookware, dishes, a BBQ, and basic kitchen supplies.

Meals are enjoyed outdoors, allowing you to fully experience the sights, sounds, and fresh air of the surrounding forest and meadow.

Meals, snacks, and beverages are enjoyed in the covered outdoor kitchen and dining space.

As Sign of the Pines is located in a natural wildlife area, we ask guests to store food, beverages, coolers, and other scented items in their vehicle when not in use. This helps us respect the wildlife that calls this area home while keeping the retreat comfortable for future guests.

One of the joys of staying here is experiencing nature up close. Thoughtful food storage helps keep those encounters safe and positive for everyone.

Possibly.

The retreat is located within a natural wildlife corridor, and guests occasionally spot deer, foxes, coyotes, hawks, owls, and a variety of songbirds. Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but many guests enjoy the opportunity to experience nature up close.

We provide the essentials for a comfortable stay, including bedding, towels, cookware, dishes, and basic kitchen supplies.

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Walking shoes or hiking boots
• Personal toiletries
• Groceries and beverages
• A cooler for storing food and drinks 
• Cell phone and device charging cables for your vehicle
• A flashlight for evening walks (optional)

Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure and a willingness to slow down.

Sign of the Pines Retreat is located approximately 20 minutes from Cochrane, Alberta.

You'll enjoy the feeling of being immersed in nature while remaining close enough to restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, and local amenities.

Guest safety always comes first.

During periods of provincial or municipal fire restrictions, outdoor fires may be limited or prohibited. If a fire ban is in effect, we'll provide guidance before your arrival.

The propane fire table may still be permitted under some restrictions, depending on local regulations at the time.

The yurt is available year-round, offering a unique experience in every season. Summer brings meadow walks and outdoor living, while winter offers snow-covered forests, cozy fires, and peaceful evenings beneath the stars.