It is with a heavy heart that we announce the cancellation of Vanquinox 2024. Due to the Wapiti Fire, the primary location near Grandjean has been significantly impacted, with at least three structures at Sawtooth Lodge burned and the entire area under evacuation. The road closures and uncertain fire activity have made it logistically overwhelming to continue planning the event.
We deeply appreciate your understanding during this challenging time. Our friends atΒ @sawtoothlodge, who have been integral to Vanquinox, have suffered greatly. They had to close for the season, and while they can’t yet assess all the damage, we know the impact is severe. If you are able, please consider supporting them through a GoFundMe set up by the granddaughter of Emile Grandjean, the first pioneer to settle in the valley: https://gofund.me/0709bcd9
If you’re looking for an alternative gathering, we encourage you to check out @_northwestnomads, happening the same weekend in Central Oregon: https://www.thenorthwestnomads.com/
We hope to gather with you in the future when circumstances allow.
In the heart of Idaho, where the Sawtooth Mountains pierce the sky, we gather again. Vanquinox 2024 returns with a new spirit and an old soul. There are no tickets this year. No price of admission. We will meet on public land, free and unbound.
From September 19-22, 2024, near Grandjean, Idaho, the mountains will welcome us. The rivers will sing their endless song. The campfires will cast their ancient light on our faces.
We have capped the gathering at 50 vehicles. This is not to exclude but to ensure intimacy, to foster true connection. It is an invitation to those who seek the company of like-minded wanderers, the solace of nature, and the joy of shared stories.
Bring a gift. Share your bounty. It might be food or art, a song or a tool, a simple kindness. Contributions to our community are expected. Not demanded. For self-reliance is not just for oneself. It is for the neighbor. For the friend you have yet to meet.
This is no expo. No crowded marketplace of distractions. It is a gathering of souls under the autumn sky. A place to find what you have lost and to lose what you no longer need.
If you have been invited, you know why. If you feel the call, answer it. We will see you there, in the shadow of the Sawtooths, where the road ends and the journey begins anew.
Vanquinox 2024. Come as you are. Leave as you will be. Click the link to opt-in to the email list to receive signup information.
Vanquinox is an informal gathering so there’s not a formal agenda but as activities such as group hikes, live music, bike rides firm up they’ll be posted here.
7:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Opening up the music at Vanquinox with a solo set Fuzzy Ip
8:30 PM – Stomp and dance to the Junkerdash sounds of Hillfolk Noir
Friday
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM (or whenever the sun reaches us in the canyon to warm up) Enjoy 45 minutes of restorative yoga, opening the heart and hips with gentle holds. Jenny Greenough will guide you through a slow flow that will help you connect more deeply to yourself and nature and feel free to enjoy the day!
1:00 PM – Nature Loop Trail hike, approx 1.5 mile loop trail on flat ground to see river and go through some of the varied marshes, meadows, and forest in the close vicinity. Very low difficulty
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Group Dinner with grilled meats provided by Blackrock Builds, beer and other beverages courtesy of Sawtooth Brewery, potluck bring an app, side, or dessert to share.
5:00 PM – 7:30 PM – Share your tunes night! Offering attendees to share their favorite music by either open mic, or send your favorite 45 minute playlist to Mike at omearamd@gmail.com, more details to come via email!
7:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Opening up the live music for Friday night, Vanquinox veteran from Seattle, Lee Jensen
*See our Facebook page and join or start a discussion to plan either a 1,2, or 4 hour guided horseback ride departing right from camp site (additional cost to the outfitter on site), or plan a full day hike into the Sawtooths to Trail Creek Lakes
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM (or whenever the sun reaches us in the canyon to warm up) Enjoy 45 minutes of restorative yoga, opening the heart and hips with gentle holds. Jenny Greenough will guide you through a slow flow that will help you connect more deeply to yourself and nature and feel free to enjoy the day!
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Ground with sound for the Fall Equinox and raise your vibration while connected to the energy of the Sawtooth Mountains. Jenny Greenough plays healing and meditative sounds of crystal sound bowls, Tibetan bowls, chimes and more. This meditative practice will honor the “harvest” of all of your hard work this year and deepen your sense of gratitude bringing you to live in the present moment and rest and relaxation mode.
We are thrilled to introduce you to Vanquinox, an enchanting convergence of passionate vanlifers, music aficionados, and nature enthusiasts, all coming together during one of the celestial calendar’s most harmonious events β the autumnal equinox.
Set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Grandjean, Idaho, Vanquinox is designed as an ode to freedom, community, and the ever-evolving vanlife movement. From September 21-24, 2023, the esteemed Sawtooth Lodge will play host to an extraordinary gathering that celebrates the essence of adventure, the camaraderie of like-minded souls, and the universal language of music.
Embracing the Spirit of Adventure
Vanquinox is not just an event; it’s a journey. Here’s what awaits you:
ποΈ Camping Under the Stars:
Experience the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve in all its glory as you park your camper van or overlanding vehicle and set up camp. Let the spirit of off-grid living inspire you.
π΅ Live Music Performances:
As the sun sets and the equinox energy envelops us, indulge in the magic of live performances that promise to resonate with every heartstring.
π§ββοΈ Yoga and Equinox Ritual:
Align your mind, body, and spirit with revitalizing yoga sessions. Don’t miss our special Equinox Ritual, harnessing the event’s celestial energy to celebrate balance and harmony.
π Scenic Excursions:
Dive deep into the heart of Idaho as you embark on scenic drives, hike up to pristine alpine lakes, soak in the healing waters of the nearby Sacajawea hot springs, or go on a horseback ride into the Sawtooth Wilderness with the Sawtooth Wilderness Outfitters.
π¦ Exclusive Access to Sawtooth Lodge’s Geothermal Pool:
Relax, rejuvenate, and connect with fellow attendees in the warmth of the geothermal swimming pool and enjoy hot showers β a touch of luxury in the embrace of nature.
β¨ Connect, Celebrate, Cherish:
Forge new friendships, indulge in hearty conversations, and create memories that will linger long after the final song fades.
Join Us!
Vanquinox is a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of the open road, the thrill of new connections, and the timeless allure of music. And as the autumnal equinox reminds us of the balance between day and night, we aim to create a space that balances adventure with relaxation, and music with silence.
Tickets are now available for purchase. For a limited time, use the promo code “VQX15” to get 15% off. And stay tuned β we’ll be announcing our music lineup very soon!
Remember, Vanquinox is more than just an event; it’s where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the vanlife community comes alive on the autumnal equinox under the shimmering Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve
Mark your calendars, and let’s make magic together in the heart of Idaho!
Take a look at our recap video courtesy of Motif Productions! Hope to see you all next year in 2023! Tickets available now!
Amazing soaks, some fantastic live music, dancing, and lots of vanlife stories around the campfire at Vanquinox 2022! Thanks to Sawtooth Lodge for being such generous hosts and to our sponsors, BlackRock Builds, The Beardsmith, and Sawtooth Brewery!
Vanquinox is an informal gathering so there’s not a formal agenda but as activities such as group hikes, live music, bike rides firm up they’ll be posted here.
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Autumnal Equinox Sunset Yin and Sound Therapy – Gentle, seated session with Wendy Rose @wendymarierose
8:30 PM – Jeff Crosby Band – new album Waitin’ On a Miracle available now on all the major platforms
Friday
1:00 PM – Nature Loop Trail hike, approx 1.5 mile loop trail on flat ground to see river and go through some of the varied marshes, meadows, and forest in the close vicinity. Very low difficulty
*See our Facebook page and join or start a discussion to plan either a 1,2, or 4 hour guided horseback ride departing right from camp site (additional cost to the outfitter on site), or plan a full day hike into the Sawtooths to Trail Creek Lakes
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Optional/Voluntary Pot Luck – Share a plate