Mills River, North Carolina

River and Root Retreat

October 2nd – 5th, 2025

Escape to nature, meet like minded women, and spend the weekend making new friends!

Meet Your Hosts!

Curious who you’ll be spending the weekend with? Cate and Lauren are both online creators in the Carolinas. Here’s a short message from each of them!

Hi Ladies! My name is Cate and I’m an outdoor content creator, professional photographer, and lover of pretty much any activity shared with friends or family outside!!! My home base is currently Greenville, SC, but I’m often found exploring all around the Carolinas with my dog Ollie and husband. I strongly believe that nature is therapeutic and spending time outside is good for the soul, whether that’s a walk with friends, a backpacking trip, a patio moment, or just reading a good book in fresh air. There’s truly nothing better than building community with like-minded women, and I can’t wait to get to know each of you.

Hi everyone! I’m Lauren, a travel and lifestyle creator with a passion for exploring new places, trying new experiences, and making the most out of every moment. I currently live in Wilmington with my husband and our dog, Blu. I love being by the coast, but the mountains will always have a special place in my heart! I believe so strongly in the power of bringing women together to build genuine friendships, share unforgettable experiences, and create lifelong memories. I’m so excited to share this journey with all of you!

Cate Schweitzer

@catescompass

Lauren Richardson

@laurenssuitcase

What to Expect

Here’s a sample itinerary for the weekend! This is subject to change based on weather and other external factors. Rest assured, we will have a ton of fun!!

  • Arrival + Welcome Gift
  • Ice Breaker/Get To Know You Exercise
  • Casual Dinner
  • Campfire + Activity
  • Hot Cocoa/Hot Toddy Bar
  • Breakfast
  • Guided Hike
  • Picnic Lunch/Swimming (weather dependent)
  • Downtime at Retreat
  • Gratitude/Intention Setting
  • Buffet Style Dinner
  • Sunset
  • Star Gazing, Depending on the weather
  • Breakfast
  • Sauna/Cold Plunge Experience
  • Hendersonville Farmers Market/Explore Downtown (Weather Dependent)
  • Lunch at Retreat
  • Guided Hike
  • Downtime/relaxation
  • Dinner Out
  • Campfire + Activity
  • Breakfast 
  • Morning Yoga
  • Pack
  • Departure

The Space

FAQs

Let us know if we missed something!

Absolutely! We offer a variety of room options, whether you’re coming solo or with a friend. When you select an option, make sure to select the dual occupancy choice. If there’s not one available and you’d still like to share, let us know and we’ll see what we can do!

Yes, we’re happy to! Please make sure to note any dietary needs in the registration questionnaire so we can plan accordingly. You’ll receive the questionnaire after securing your spot.

Pack comfy clothes for hiking and outdoor activities, lounge wear for relaxing, hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, a bathing suit, outdoor sandals, a rain jacket, and anything you enjoy using during downtime like a journal or book. You’ll also want to bring a cute outfit for our casual Saturday night dinner out with the gals!

We’ll be staying in Mills River — a charming small town surrounded by natural beauty. This area is conveniently situated between Hendersonville, NC and Brevard, NC, two of the best mountain towns North Carolina has to offer!

All fitness levels are welcome! We’ll tailor activities based on the group’s needs and can offer different options for hikes and outings. Lauren and Cate are happy to split into two groups if needed.

Yes! The Asheville Regional Airport is the closest and most convenient option. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is 2 hours away and has more flight options, often at lower prices, if you don’t mind a little bit of a drive!

All attendees must be 21 or older.

A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot. Full payment is due by August 15th. You may cancel and receive a refund (minus the deposit) up until that date.

  • 4 days and 3 nights at a mountain retreat in Mills River, NC
  • 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners (one dinner is not included)
  • Creative workshops led by Cate and Lauren
  • Guided hikes nearby, skill levels can be separated between Cate and Lauren if needed
  • Welcome gift with lots of local goodies
  • Sauna and cold plunge experience
  • Transportation to and from retreat
  • Airfare