I’m your host, Nicky Yates, and my primary goal is to ensure you have a pleasant and comfortable stay. My mission is to serve our growing community and care for the land that has captured my heart here in the lush mountains of North Carolina.
My story begins in Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, where I was born as the youngest of four in a big, loving family. I spent my childhood in the Piedmont, chasing fireflies and eating watermelon every summer until I was about thirteen. That’s when my family moved to the coast, where the wetlands and swamps became my playground. The ocean and forests became my greatest teachers, and I spent countless hours in conversation with them.
In my late teens, I began traveling, exploring much of the United States, and having many adventures. In 2019, I stumbled upon Mountain Light Sanctuary—and something just clicked. These mountains, and this place in particular, felt like home, and I knew this was where I wanted to settle.
Life at the Sanctuary is simple, demanding, and deeply rewarding. We split wood for the sauna and stove, gather water from a spring up the hill, sing around the fire, and keep our hands and feet in the Earth.
In addition to hosting guests from around the world, I am a graduate of Western NC School of Massage, a writer and artist, a dedicated student of health and sustainability, and an avid backpacker who has explored much of North America.
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to our home, our community, and our little hidden Shangri-La in the national forest.