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

Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

We're Listening

Good News! We're happy to announce that reduced Winter Rates will be in effect beginning when we re-open December 29, 2013, running until April 30, 2014 as follows: Day Use (per person) $13 Overnight Use (per person) $26 Tent Site $5 Vehicle Site $10 Oak Dorm Bed $10 Oak Private Room $20 Small Cabin $50 Sunset Room $55 Large Cabin $65 Even better news; the above rates will include the…
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

Notes from the Chair

I am honored to welcome three new members to the OLT board. Many of you may recognize John Lorenz. John lived at Valley View and was on the staff from 2005 to 2010. John brings an intimate experience with various spheres of Valley View. Myron Hulen, a retired professor from Colorado State University, has extensive experience with nonprofits. He has worked to raise funds and served as Treasurer for Larimer…
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

What's Happening at the Everson Ranch

This year brought numerous land revitalization projects to OLT's Everson Ranch. Pastures that were almost barren, this year produced a harvestable crop of hay. Sixty large bales were gleaned from the north pasture with a "street value" of about $3500 to $5000 (though this initial batch will remain with us for our animals). Still, a very good beginning! "Our animals" are five horses, five pigs, a dozen chickens and a…
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

Does Your Employer Match Donations?

A gift to OLT that is matched by your employer goes twice as far in supporting our mission, delivering twice the punch! Please ask your employer if they match donations to nonprofits, specifically your donation to OLT! Arrange at your workplace or call Pam Nelson, OLT's Development Director at 719-298-2289 and she will call your employer's Matching Gifts coordinator for you. Employers from whom OLT has received matching gifts in…
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

An Introduction to Naturism

According to the international definition adopted by the XIV Congress of the International Naturist Federation, naturism is "a lifestyle in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, and characterized by self-respect of people with different opinions and [respect for] the environment.'' From Wikipedia.org] Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS) has a strong tradition of personal freedom and a sense of community that has created a very loyal following over the last…
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

2013 Accomplishments

Organizational Capacity Building, Facilities, Education, Partnerships, Conservation
Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

2013 Donor Acknowledgements

OLT would like to acknowledge the membership community who carried us through 2013. It's only through your dedicated and generous support that we can preserve this amazing place and all it holds. Thank you! Land Stewards Mary Eiseman Philanthropists Doug Bates (Staff), Debra Hoffman (Board), Karen McLaughlin & Mark Schubin, Charles Zeis Benefactors Jeff Baysinger, John Belskis & Elizabeth Sweeney, Ed Cannon, Judy & Peter Carroll, Kenneth Coombs, Sam Duncan,…
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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.