Remoteness, Accessibility and Medical Issues

Remote Location

Holden Village is one of the most isolated continuously inhabited places in the lower 48 states. Under normal circumstances, it takes most of a day to get either in or out of the village to the nearest town (Chelan). There are no public phones and no cell phone reception. There are no direct roads to the village. The peace provided by Holden’s remoteness is a great gift, but also a responsibility. Emergency evacuations are possible, but very difficult and extremely expensive. Fire is a major concern. We ask that all members of the community keep in mind Holden’s remote location when making decisions that could affect their safety or the safety of others.

Accessibility

Holden Village is a place of rocky walkways and uneven terrain. Those with mobility difficulties may not find it easy to get around. All winter guest rooms are on the second floor and are not wheelchair accessible. Handicapped accessible guest rooms are available in the summer, as well as a limited number of bathrooms with handicapped accessible showers and toilets. Please indicate these needs when registering.

Summer only: The Village operates a van with a wheelchair lift. An electric wheelchair is also available. Please indicate these needs on the registration form.

Medical Resources

The Village has a trained First Response Team, and a first aid station equipped to handle basic needs. We do not have a doctor on staff. Holden is equipped to handle only routine matters, not medical emergencies. Because of our isolated location, emergency evacuations are extremely difficult. If you use medication, be sure to bring more than enough for your stay. If you have any questions about coming to Holden because of your present health status, please contact your doctor and/or write the Village Medic at medic@holdenvillage.org before making final arrangements to come.

Good Courage : Holden Reflections

“Oh child, let’s get to work.” By Hayley Dennison

Feb. 10, 2012 – “That’s interesting … That’s really interesting,” I said in response to her, my friend, who was telling me, “I don’t believe in God.” This occurred three weeks ago up on the Goat Trail. For me this situation may have been similar to what my sister-in-law talks about when she tells this [...]

A Place Apart, a Place Eternal – 02/03/2012

I read this week in the Village Voice an invitation to share “Holden Stories.” I’d like to use Matins this morning to tell part of ours. I learned on Monday from the J-term students that Holden’s original name was Holden Village: A Place Apart. When life up this mountain includes power outages due to avalanche [...]

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