Orient Land Trust is a non-profit land trust created around Valley View Hot Springs, its unique culture and environment.

With the Orient Mine and Everson Ranch, we now protect 2,200 acres, its wildlife corridor, pristine spring waters, hiking trails, rustic cabins, and camping. Visitors of all ages and walks of life enjoy free educational programs, clothing-optional naturist open space, geothermal warmth, hydroelectric energy, and Colorado's largest bat colony.  Read more...

Guidelines Rates and Reservations Bat Tours

Friday, March 9th, 2018

March at the Ranch, 2018

I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden.—Ruth Stout Snow may be falling but March brings the promise of Spring and the planning for our community garden has begun. With another season quickly approaching, we're picking out seeds in anticipation of an abundant fall harvest. Employing permaculture designs, our garden goods are always grown in a sustainable manner and we strive…
The Governance Committee accepts applications for new board members all year long. With terms expiring every July, we are always keeping a lookout for interested, committed people to serve on the board. The commitment is for a three year term that involves four board meetings a year, intermittent work sessions, serving on a committee or two, available by email to address concerns that arise between board meetings, and the ability…
Friday, March 9th, 2018

Part Time Seasonal Help Wanted!

We are currently accepting applications for part time seasonal help for front desk and housekeeping staff. Front desk requires a friendly personality, love to interact with people, good computer skills, and the ability to multitask in a very busy, sometimes noisy office. Housekeeping is physical, laundry, cleaning of accommodations, welcome center and bathhouses. A commitment from April through September as well as a flexible weekly schedule is necessary. OLT does…
Friday, March 9th, 2018

Register for Science Camp 2018!

Science Camp 2018 is scheduled for July 29th through August 2nd. Our goals are to create awareness of environmental issues, resource sustainability, land and habitat conservation. Our program provides the opportunity to experience this unique environment, to expand knowledge of the natural world and to instill a sense of stewardship and personal responsibility. Camp begins with orientation on Sunday evening, July 29th. There are three workshops offered daily, Monday through…
Wednesday, February 7th, 2018

Mild Weather Continues

January weather was much warmer and drier than normal. There is very little snow in the mountains and the daytime temperatures are mild. While this may cause drought problems in the months to come, it makes for pleasant conditions at the hot springs. The month of January saw a noticeable increase in the number of guests at the hot springs compared to past years. We've enjoyed seeing old friends and…
Wednesday, February 7th, 2018

2018 Ranch Babies

This year's first baby goats have arrived and we are thrilled to announce they are a set of triplets! The kids were born on January 29th in the middle of the warm sunny day. Since that time they are doing great and have already stolen our hearts with their exuberant personalities and adorableness!! We do have more mamas that are expected to deliver in the upcoming weeks. Anyone who would…
Wednesday, February 7th, 2018

Scheduling for Volunteers!

2017 was a banner year for volunteers with 128 dedicated people donating 8,275 hours in facilities, at the ranch and garden, as camp hosts, discovery hosts, bat tour guides and astronomy hosts. Others helped with weed pulling, trail building, consulting or as a committee member or board director. Thank you to all of the incredible people who helped last year, your participation is appreciated! Calling all Astronomers! Last year we…

Jul
20

Sat 7/20/24 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

  • Naturism by Neil & Terry Seitz, FoundersHistory of Naturism at OLT
  • Words of Wisdom by Neil & Terry Seitz, FoundersSharing experience and wisdom that helped sustain this special place through the decades.

For the education, enjoyment, and well-being of current and future generations, Orient Land Trust: 
promotes a positive clothing-optional experience at all properties including Valley View Hot Springs, Orient Mine and Everson Ranch;
preserves the viewshed, including land acquisition; 
protects natural, wild, agricultural, and historic resources, in the northern San Luis Valley.

Values

  • Dedication to inclusiveness and the public good
  • Accountability to a diverse public community and maintaining their trust
  • Social and environmental justice beyond mandates
  • Respect for the worth and dignity of individuals and nature
  • Embracing naturism through practice and education
  • Modeling collaborative pluralism, transparency, integrity and honesty
  • Pledging excellence and responsibility in stewarding resources
  • Encouraging lifelong learning

Goals

  • Visitor Space Protection and Management: Maintain and protect Valley View Hot Springs as an affordable, peaceful and family-friendly clothing-optional recreational facility that enhances the visitor experience year round.
  • Conservation and Preservation: Follow the highest possible standards for land preservation, agricultural practices, and energy and water conservation.
  • Research and Education: Facilitate scientific research around OLT resources, and promote educational programs and activities suitable for adults and children.
  • Staff Development and Community Relations: Maintain OLT as a responsible citizen of the San Luis Valley.