Frequently asked questions
Q:
Will I have to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend this event?
A:
No. We are currently not requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering or the Saturday night Sounds of Steel Handpan concert. However, this policy may change in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations or to best serve our community. There may still be travel requirements set by the state, federal government, or your travel provider so make sure to be aware of these before booking your tickets, especially if you are traveling internationally.
You can read our full COVID-19 event policies here.
Q:
Will I have to pass a COVID-19 test to attend this event?
A:
No. We are currently not requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test to attend Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering or the Saturday night Sounds of Steel Handpan concert. However, this policy may change in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations or to best serve our community. There may still be travel requirements set by the state, federal government, or your travel provider so make sure to be aware of these before booking your tickets, especially if you are traveling internationally.
You can read our full COVID-19 event policies here.
Q:
What happens if I contract COVID-19 at the event? Will I be asked to leave?
A:
If you begin to feel unwell at Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering we will have COVID-19 rapid test kits for anyone who needs one. Additionally, our on-site nurse will be able to care for any basic medical needs you may have. In the unlikely chance you test positive for COVID-19 at the event site we will have quarantine lodging that is isolated from the rest of the event space ready for you. We will not ask you to leave Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering if you test positive, however, for the safety of our community you will be asked not to congregate with the rest of the Steel Mountain attendees for the rest of the event. Meals will be brought to you in the quarantine cabin. We will not be able to offer refunds in the event this occurs.
Q:
I’m new to the handpan, is Steel Mountain good for beginners?
A:
Absolutely! Steel Mountain is good for anyone interested in the handpan, from beginners to seasoned professionals. There will be workshops for all ability levels, and most will be appropriate for beginners. There will be handpans to play, buy, and maybe even some to win! Steel Mountain is a great place to rub elbows with the handpan community including players of all skill levels, builders, teachers, and others new to the handpan. Come and join the community!
Q:
I don’t own a handpan. Will there be any to play while I’m there?
A:
While Colorado Handpan Productions does not formally provide instruments for attendees to play, the community is very generous in sharing. We actively encourage the sharing of instruments, and generally, it is one of the things that people enjoy most about handpan gatherings. You can expect many instruments to be available for you to explore and use for workshops or jams.
Q:
Will there be any instruments available for purchase?
A:
We typically have several handpan builders in attendance, and most bring instruments available for sale. There are also usually several attendees looking to sell and/or trade their own handpans. Keep an eye on our Artists page as well as our Facebook group for attending builder announcements!
Q:
I’m not able to attend for the whole weekend, are day passes available?
A:
Currently, no. However, we may open up day pass slots closer to the event.
Q:
What is the pet, emotional support animal, and service animal policy?
A:
Buckhorn Camp and Retreat Center does not allow pets or emotional support animals in any of the public buildings including our retreat cabin, lodges, workshop, and concert spaces. Additionally, Colorado Handpan Productions independently does not allow Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering attendees to bring their pets to Steel Mountain regardless of where they are lodging. Please honor these policies and do not bring your pet or emotional support animal. As required by law, ADA-protected service animals are welcome.
Q:
What airport should I fly in to?
A:
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the best choice and is about a 90-minute drive to the venue.
Q:
Is transportation provided?
A:
Colorado Handpan Productions/Steel Mountain will not be providing or organizing transportation to/from the venue. You can, however, coordinate a carpool with other attendees via our Facebook group.
Q:
What elevation is Buckhorn Camp at? Will I have problems breathing?
A:
Buckhorn Camp and Retreat Center is at about 8,000 feet above sea level. The air is thin up here, but most people have no problems walking around and going about their normal routines. However, some people do have trouble and may develop varying degrees of altitude sickness (Learn more here). If you are suffering from altitude sickness our on-site nurse will be available to help you!
Q:
Do I need to book my own lodging? What if I want to stay off-site?
A:
We have reserved all the needed lodging space for our group so there is no need to book lodging independently. However, if you would like to reserve your own off-site lodging you are welcome to do this. In this scenario, you will need to purchase a "camping pass" ticket for you and each member of your group. If you choose to do this please let us know you will not be camping on-site.
Q:
I want to be in the same room as my friends can I request specific roommates?
A:
You may request to be in the same room as other attendees, however, we can not guarantee that we will be able accommodate all requests.
Q:
Are there private rooms available?
A:
This year, all on-site lodging is shared to foster a closer community atmosphere. If you’d prefer your own private space, we recommend purchasing a Camping Pass and booking your own off-site accommodations at a nearby hotel or rental.
Q:
Is there a camping option?
A:
Yes! You are welcome to bring your tent, camper van, or small RV. Be aware that there are no water or electric hookups as it is dry camping only. Locker room style bathroom facilities including showers, sinks, and toilets will be available to campers.
Q:
What are the differences between the Retreat Lodge and the Bunk Cabins?
A:
The Retreat Lodge offers a hotel-style experience with cathedral windows and sunrise views, featuring rooms shared by 4 people. The Bunk Cabins provide a back-to-basics, nostalgic summer camp feel in rustic log buildings with stone fireplaces, with rooms filled with 3 to 6 people. Both options include private bathrooms and showers, but the Lodge is slightly more modern while the cabins are more traditional and simple.
Q:
May I drink alcohol at Steel Mountain?
A:
Since Buckhorn is a dry campus, alcohol is not permitted on the grounds. We ask that everyone respects the facility’s rules so we can maintain a safe, clear-headed, and focused environment for the whole community to enjoy.
Q:
May I smoke marijuana or do other drugs at Steel Mountain?
A:
Though legal in Colorado, private property owners may create their own policies around marijuana use. Buckhorn Camp and Retreat Center does not allow marijuana on its property. However, if you choose to use marijuana off the Buckhorn property you are free to do so and only ask that you are discreet and respectful to the other Steel Mountain attendees.
Illegal drug use of any kind is not allowed at Steel Mountain Handpan Gathering. We ask that you do not use any illegal substances at Steel Mountain or bring any illegal substances to the event.
Q:
I am vegetarian / vegan / gluten free, will there be food for me?
A:
Yes! We have a very talented team of caterers who are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions. Make sure to specify any dietary needs in your online registration.
Q:
May I use the kitchen to prepare my own food?
A:
The kitchen is a very busy place throughout the gathering, and the refrigerators are full. Kitchen access will not be available for you to prepare your own meals. If you have a medical need, please contact us and we will coordinate with the kitchen staff to accommodate.
Q:
What is your refund policy?
A:
Your registration is fully transferable, however, no refunds will be provided. If you are unable to join us after purchasing a ticket, you are welcome to sell or give away your ticket (and let us know!). You may also contact us to see if we have a waiting list of people you can sell your ticket to.
In the unlikely event that Steel Mountain is canceled or postponed due to COVID-19 or other circumstances outside of your personal control, ticket holders will be offered future tickets or a full ticket refund (This does not include the non-refundable payment processing fee.)
Q:
Can I swap out my ticket for a lower priced ticket after purchasing?
A:
Yes. However, we are unable to provide you with a refund for the difference in ticket prices if you choose to do this.
Q:
Are linens provided? Will I need to bring a towel or a sleeping bag?
A:
Yes, all linens, and towels will be provided for you. Make sure to bring your own shampoo and other needed toiltries.
Q:
Is Buckhorn Camp and Retreat Center wheelchair accessible?
A:
Yes! Buckhorn is wheelchair accessible. If you require a wheelchair please let us know in advance so we can best accomidate you.
Q:
I have a hard time with stairs and would like a room on the first floor, can I request this?
A:
Yes! Just mention this in your registration and we will make sure to place you in a first floor room.