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

Annual Outreach Board Meeting
Wednesday, July 13th, 2016

Board Outreach Meeting - This Saturday

The annual outreach meeting of the OLT Board of Directors is Saturday, July 16, 2016 from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. All are welcome to attend in-person or online. The meeting will be held at the hot springs Pavilion once again this year and lunch will be provided. Come and join the meeting and meet the board members! Download the Agenda and Information Packet Follow this and all our Board…
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Making Cheese, Science Camp 2015
Wednesday, July 13th, 2016

Science Camp 2016!

Our project goals are to create awareness of environmental issues, resource sustainability, land and habitat conservation. To give our youth the opportunity to experience this unique environment, to expand their knowledge of the natural world through our educational programs and to instill a sense of stewardship and personal responsibility. Science Camp is July 24th through the 28th. Our Kids Science Camp encompasses all of our educational programs including bat, hydro-electric,…
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Goats at Everson Ranch
Wednesday, July 13th, 2016

Educational Tours

We are offering nightly Bat and Astronomy Tours along with a campfire & s'mores! Yes, s'mores are not educational... but they sure are fun! Saturday and on request; Everson Ranch Tours, Hydro and Geology Tours are also available. There is no charge for any of our Tours! Please register at the Welcome Center. Bat Tours began on the 13th of June and have reached their full numbers as of the…
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Natural, fresh spring water for drinking
Monday, June 6th, 2016

Drinking Water: All Clear!

Good news! The most recent water tests showed no problems and the state has rescinded the boil drinking water notification. All clear. Thanks to everyone for their understanding, helpfulness and great attitudes during the boil water alert. Valley View people are the best people! We are grateful for your patience and support. We're also glad that this was a brief and minor interruption. A special Thank You to camp host…
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Science Camp 2016 Poster
Wednesday, June 1st, 2016

Science Camp, July 24-28

Orient Land Trust wants to give an appreciative Thank You! To the Saguache County Sales Tax Grant fund for their $2500 grant in support of the upcoming Science Camp. We were notified of the award just before Memorial Day and this is just the most recent example of the many ways that Saguache County has supported our efforts. The Science Camp this year is scheduled for July 24 through July…
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Bird Fun & Photography Workshop, Jun 12-13
Wednesday, June 1st, 2016

Bird Fun & Photography Workshop, Jun 12-13

JUNE 12TH & 13TH Sunday Afternoon 4:00 – 7:00 pm Monday Morning 7:30 – 10:30 Identify and record the different birds at Orient Land Trust by walking transects across the diverse habitats on the preserve. Those interested in bird photography are encouraged. Jim will use a high zoom point and shot cameras to help in identification. Bring binoculars and your camera! Please Call to Reserve Your Space! 719-256-4315 Bird Fun…
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Providing drinking water
Wednesday, June 1st, 2016

[Update] Drinking Water Alert!

UPDATE: After our latest tests, the State has again given us the all clear. Enjoy drinking our pure spring water once again. The Valley View drinking water system is under a "Boil Drinking Water" notification from the State of Colorado. We are providing bottled water to our visitors. If you're heading this way, you can help by bringing your own water.
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  • 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.