With teams spending more time working remotely, purposeful in-person retreats have become more important than ever. They create space for spontaneous conversation, meaningful collaboration, and stronger overall job satisfaction. When thoughtfully designed, retreats foster genuine connections between team members, improve return on investment, and increase productivity. So, skip the tired icebreakers and focus on shared experiences that matter. Here are five ways the Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa team likes to break the ice during corporate retreats in Tabernash:
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Taking a Hike: Hikes offer the opportunity for a peaceful appreciation of nature and casual trail conversation. Attendees can take in the sights, talk about said sights, and who knows, maybe get to know something new about their teammates. The Devil’s Thumb Ranch team likes this option because it gives individuals the opportunity to wander quietly or engage in conversation as they choose. There’s also nothing better to get thoughts percolating than a little movement!
Photo courtesy of Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa -
Learning Something Together: Ever tried fly-fishing? How about line dancing or learning how to lasso? Pick something that is suitable for all skill levels and watch attendees get lost in an activity that quiets other thoughts and frees up creative thinking.
Photo courtesy of Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa - Volunteering: Sustainability and restoration are foundational to Devil’s Thumb Ranch, so its team suggests cleaning up a local park or trail. Make sure you carve out time for a picnic lunch to refuel and chat. Not only will your group leave feeling like they’ve done something positive and tangible, but they also might have formed some bonds while working side by side with team members they don’t collaborate with on a daily basis.
- Playing a Team Brain Game: Get the wheels turning with a brain game—this one’s for you, trivia aficionados! Nothing brings a team together like a ticking clock and a fun challenge. Deciding on a team name is a task in and of itself—customize your trivia topics or use an online generator and watch those teams come together with the flip of a timer.
- Doing Something Creative: Try a simple meditative art project, create something tasty during a cooking class, or (in true ranch fashion) try leather stamping. Hands-on activities keep participants engaged and are a great way to loosen up and get ideas flowing. Plus, it’s fascinating to see how each person puts their own twist on things. Maybe you’re just one creative activity away from a bold new idea.
With any luck, you still get to learn those fun and quirky facts about your workmates, but the team at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa hopes these activities nudge you on a more authentic and adventurous trail to those discoveries.
