How to plan a business retreat in Bear Lake this spring

This article about how to plan a business retreat is sponsored by the Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau. 

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Getting the team together is a great way to set goals, build relationships, and feel rejuvenated at work. If you want ideas to plan a business retreat, keep reading! 

At Bear Lake, spring is a great time to reserve for large groups, as lodging opportunities are typically only booked in the summer. During the off-season, the area is quieter, allowing you and your coworker’s plenty of time and space to participate in activities without worrying about crowds. 

Tips to make your company retreat a success 

Define your business retreat goals early on.

Once you figure out your why, the who, what, where, and when will fall into place. 

Ask your team for food and allergy needs beforehand.

This way, you can ensure any catered lunches or restaurants can accommodate them.

Be flexible with changes.

Life happens, and circumstances may cause you to pivot course. Take these shifts in stride, and realize that the time together is still valuable even if you have to change the agenda. 

Send an anonymous survey after the retreat.

This allows employees to be honest in their feedback so you can determine if this is something the company wants to budget again for. It can also give you ideas for how to make it even better the next time. 

Now that you know more about planning a business retreat, check out this sample itinerary for a four-day retreat in Bear Lake. 

Sample business retreat itinerary

Day 1: Checking In

• Arrive at the Bear Lake area and check into your accommodations. The Sunrise Resort and Event Center is an excellent option for company retreats, with on-site lodging, event rooms, and outdoor patio areas to gather in.  
• Enjoy a group lunch at one of the local restaurants. Quick ‘n Tasty and El Jaliciense are fantastic options in the springtime. 
• Spend the afternoon in a team-building activity, such as bird-watching at Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge or a hike in Logan Canyon. Play a round of board games if the weather’s not fit for outdoor activities. 
• Have a team dinner catered at your accommodations. Conestoga Ranch offers banquet catering, around-the-fire cooking, and picnic tables for a unique experience that everyone can share.

Day 2: Workshops and Activities for the Company Retreat

• Start the day with a group breakfast catered by the resort or lodging. You can keep breakfast simple with coffee, bagels, and fruit platters. 
• Spend the morning in a workshop or training session related to the business goal you set before the retreat. One or two people can lead this with interactive elements to encourage group participation. 
• Have a catered lunch at your accommodations.
• In the afternoon, take a break from work and go on a group excursion to see the beautiful Bear Lake scenery, such as a horseback riding tour or a visit to Bear Lake State Park.
• Have a team dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Presentations and Setting Goals

• Start the day with a group breakfast at your accommodations.
• Spend the morning in another workshop or training session related to your business goals.
• Have a catered lunch at your accommodations.
• In the afternoon, do a team-building activity incorporating the Bear Lake environment, such as a kayaking or paddleboarding excursion.
• Have a team dinner at a local restaurant or catered at your accommodations.
• Try a stargazing tour at night! Bear Lake offers stunning night skies to see numerous constellations and galactic phenomena if it’s a clear night. 

Day 4: Departure  

• Start the day with a group breakfast at Moose Buns.
• Spend the morning in a final workshop or training session to wrap up your retreat goals.
• Allow people time to check out of their lodging. 
• Depart from the Bear Lake area.

Related reading:

Pack Your Bags! Extended Stays at Bear Lake Await You

This is a sponsored article brought to you by KSL News Radio in conjunction with the advertiser. The advertiser paid a fee to promote this article and may have influenced or authored the content. The views expressed in this article are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect those of KSL News Radio, its parent company, or its staff.