Writing the Wild in Sedona, Arizona
Applications open October 1
Learn to see like a naturalist and write with intention in one of America's most inspiring landscapes.
Workshop at a Glance: This is for you if you are a nature-curious writer of any genre and any level who wants to slow down and let the desert in.
📍 Sedona, Arizona
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Fly in to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport or Phoenix Sky Harbor
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Rent a car or take a shuttle to your Sedona accommodation
🗓️ Dates
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Applications open Friday, Oct. 1, 2026
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Arrive by Sunday, March 21, 2027
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Workshop runs Monday, March 22 through Friday, March 26, 2027
🧑🏫 Instruction
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Experiential, place-based curriculum led by expert instructor Eric Aldrich, Ph.D.
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Small cohort: 7-10 participants
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Generous 1:1 and group feedback
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Free time for writing and reflection
💳 Costs
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Tuition: $2195
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Limited accommodations may be available: $595+
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Nonrefundable deposit: $500 at time of acceptance
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2 guided excursions included
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Travel & other expenses excluded
Sedona as the Classroom
Sedona's soaring red rocks, winding canyons, and high desert landscapes become an extension of the classroom. Every field experience is intentionally connected to the day's lessons, helping writers observe more deeply and gather material that can only be found through being there.
What you'll do
During five immersive days
you'll alternate between field observation, discussion, guided writing, and individual feedback. You'll learn to notice more deeply, generate stronger material, and experiment with techniques that can strengthen any genre.
You'll spend time:
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Writing in Sedona's landscapes
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Practicing close oberservation
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Experimenting with craft techniques
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Sharing work in a supportive community
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Receiving individual feedback
You'll leave with:
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Fresh writing generated in the field
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Practical observation and revision techniques
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New ways of seeing landscape and place
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Greater confidence in your writing practice
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A notebook full of ideas to keep developing
Meet Your Instructor
Eric Aldrich, Ph.D.
Eric Aldrich, Ph.D., is an award-winning writer, educator, and environmental advocate. He teaches literature and writing at Pima Community College, serves on the Board of Directors of Sky Island Alliance, and is an assistant nonfiction editor for Terrain.org. His writing is deeply rooted in the landscapes of the American Southwest.
In Sedona, Eric helps participants sharpen their observation, strengthen their craft, and transform time outdoors into meaningful writing. Through field exercises, discussion, and individualized feedback, writers of all experience levels leave with fresh material, practical techniques, and a renewed way of seeing the natural world.
Workshop facilitator: Wandering Writers Workshops founder and cultural anthropologist Angela Orlando, Ph.D.
How Enrollment Works
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and are not competitive. The application helps us learn about your interests, understand your needs, and create a cohesive workshop group. If space is available and the workshop is a good fit, you’ll receive an invitation to enroll and reserve your seat with a $500 deposit.
Applications open October 1, 2026 →