Nestled within the serene landscapes of Bear Valley on 30 acres adjacent to the National Wildlife Refuge, The Aerie Retreat & Spiritual Center stands as a sanctuary for those seeking respite, healing, and personal transformation.

This unique destination invites visitors to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with their inner wisdom in a supportive, natural environment. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The Aerie welcomes all faiths, races, and individuals — embracing the philosophy that everyone deserves access to healing and love.

The Vision Behind The Aerie

The Aerie's journey began with a 30-year dream harbored by Glen Nielsen, who envisioned creating a place where people could come together to heal, grow, and connect across faith traditions and life paths.

The center offers a comprehensive array of wellness services, community gatherings, and private rental options for workshops, weddings, and special events. The mission extends beyond providing a beautiful space — the goal is to heal the world, one person at a time, by creating opportunities for profound personal growth and community connection.

Land Acknowledgment

"Our land acknowledgment serves as a constant reminder of our responsibility to become even better caretakers of this special place," Natalie explains. "We recognize the unique connection that exists between the Modoc people and these lands and waters that benefit us today."

That perspective informs The Aerie's approach to land management and spiritual practices, creating a foundation of respect that permeates all activities and offerings at the center.

Exceptional Facilities

The Retreat House — the main gathering space, offering communal living, dining, and program rooms.

RV Accommodations — for travelers preferring their own space: - 28-foot RV — accommodates up to 5 guests with built-in bunkbeds - 24-foot RV — sleeps up to 3 people - Both vehicles provide cooking and showering capabilities, offering independence while still allowing access to Retreat House amenities

Fire Ring — gathering point for evening fires, ceremony, and community

30 acres of natural land — adjacent to the National Wildlife Refuge

What's Offered

  • Couples Retreats — 3–5 day experiences focused on healing childhood wounds, improving communication, rekindling intimacy, and creating healthier relationship patterns
  • Plant medicine work — integrated with somatic therapy, counseling, and indigenous practices, with preparation and integration sessions
  • Free Monthly Community Gatherings — open to all, no cost
  • Free Monthly Women's Circles — third Wednesday of each month
  • Private rentals — workshops, weddings, retreats, special events

Meet Your Hosts

Glen Nielsen — Over four decades of professional experience, including 16 years in the solar industry. His passion for personal growth led to extensive training in Bioenergetics, Reiki, Somatic Experiencing, and Hakomi (Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy). In 2019, Glen completed training as a medicine guide in the San Francisco Bay Area, following a lineage stemming from the Mazatec tradition of Oaxaca, Mexico. This background informs his therapeutic approach, helping clients effectively process and move beyond trauma.

Natalie Vartanian — Co-steward of The Aerie, certified intimacy coach, and lead facilitator of the women's programming. Natalie brings sustained focus to the relational and feminine-development side of The Aerie's mission.

Why It Matters

The Aerie isn't a destination spa or a corporate retreat center. It's a 501(c)(3) nonprofit built around the belief that healing should be accessible — and that what happens at the right kind of retreat can ripple outward into stronger families, healthier marriages, and a more connected community.

For Klamath Falls, having a place like The Aerie 20 minutes from town is rare. For Klamath Living, featuring it is a privilege.