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"Never thought of ourselves as owners so much as stewards. It just made sense to share..." - Terry
Minimal cost and development
Non-profit and noncommercial approach
Free to children under 16
Free tours
Supporting local government (unrequired taxes?)
Supported by your donations
The Orient Land Trust is perhaps best known for protecting its spectacular views. With 2,200 acres over a variety of terrain and surrounded by __ miles of public lands, visitors share a powerful and unique perspective of the world. The viewshed highlights the natural, historic, and agricultural heritage of the northern San Luis Valley, its rural communities, and their gentle pace of life. The skies are wide and open, with dramatic and beautiful weather. Come nightfall, the high altitude and lack of light pollution make provide some of the best stargazing to be found.
OLT's location and geography are extremely favorable for great celestial viewing. Several great telescopes were donated for visitors to view the skies in great detail. Our Astronomy Hosts share the science and wonder of the night sky with visitors. With our 8" telescope, guests can spot distant galaxies, fascinating stars, as well the rings and moons surrounding nearby planets.
Heavens Above, Site 1792105 (OLT) - astronomy and satellite events, localized to Valley View Hot Springs
Space Weather - meteor showers, solar weather, and aurora sightings
Year round, our overnight guests can soak comfortably under the stars all night. All areas remain open to all guests throughout the night. We maintain minimal artificial light and recommend having a flashlight ready well before dusk. Most visitors are surprised how comfortably they can soak for hours.
Please be mindful when using flashlights near others and keep a low voice out of respect for those sleeping nearby in tents and cabins.
Orient Land Trust (OLT) is a unique place of peace, community, and soothing waters
that nourish the environment and inspire us to preserve it.
Orient Land Trust is a nonprofit land trust
dedicated to the preservation of Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS) and its viewshed—
including natural and biologic resources, agricultural lands, wildlife habitat,
open space, and historic and geologic features
of the northern San Luis Valley—
for the education and enjoyment of current and future generations.
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.
in balance with the natural experience
[admission limits / quotas] reservations highly recommended
[group size limits]
[reduced light]
[sound restrictions]
OLT was founded by Neil and Terry Seitz in 2001, building upon the legacy of the Everson Ranch, Valley View Hot Springs, and the Orient Mine. Its founders, owners of Valley View Hot Springs for thirty-five years, knew that the resources of the northern San Luis Valley and specifically the environs surrounding Valley View were simply too valuable to be owned by any person. They needed to be put into trust for everyone, for all time. In 2009 and 2010, the Seitz' donated Valley View Hot Springs and the Orient Mine to OLT. Thus, they created the foundation for the protection of vast, uninterrupted landscapes against ever-increasing usage and development pressure, while preserving the natural, agricultural and historic values of the lands. With their guidance and member support, OLT increased this open space to thousands of protected acres.
Today, OLT's resources include:
OLT's community is non-exclusive and open to all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. All that is expected of visitors is their commitment to our values of Recognition, Respect, and Responsibility. Membership is not required to visit. Coupled with an active volunteer program, costs are kept to a sustainable minimum, ensuring diverse access and inspiring tremendous charitable support.
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.