Orient Land Trust
                                   Valley View Hot Springs
                                   Email: info@olt.org

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Facts for First-Time Visitors
Orient Land Trust is a 501(c)3 non-profit, currently protecting over 2,200 acres in the northern San Luis Valley.   We count on the tax-deductible support
of our generous members to continue our land preservation work, and the ability to make advance reservations is based on your OLT Membership level.
Non-members can reserve up to two weeks in advance -
See Member Benefits to see how to reserve up to 3 months in advance!

NOTICE: Planned Energy Conservation at Valley View

See Rate Information for day visit, overnight and lodging rates
See
Directions and Map if you are wondering how to get here
See
Pools and Ponds for photos of all our great places to soak
See
Before You Call for advance reservation limits, cancellation policy and other information

See Accommodation Availability Calendar to see what overnight accommodations are available


Valley View Hot Springs lies at the foot of the spectacular Sangre de Cristo range
at the end of Saguache County Road GG, a 7 mile gravel road off Hwys 285 and 17.
The Everson Ranch, part of OLT, is centered in the trees at the far right of this photo
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Our location is remarkably isolated and quiet. We are 12 miles from the nearest very small town of Villa Grove and 37 miles from Salida, the closest town with any significant amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies, or larger retail stores. There are no restaurants or gas stations here, so bring whatever groceries and supplies you might need. We offer a limited supply of necessities, snacks, and local foods at the Welcome Center. Important - the closest gas stations are 32 miles north (Hwy 285) in Poncha Springs, 22 miles southwest (Hwy 285) in Saguache, and 38 miles south (Hwy 17) in Hooper, so be sure to fill up on the way here!

  

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Our office hours are from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm every day. Day visitors (not staying overnight) must arrive no later than 8:30 pm and leave by 10:00 pm - the gate locks shortly after 10:00pm. Overnight guests may check in up until 10:00 pm but there is no admittance after 10:00pm. The pools, ponds, and sauna are available 24/7 for overnight guests.
 

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We are clothing optional and support family-friendly naturism everywhere on the grounds. Many of our guests prefer to swim, soak, and hike without clothing, but there is no "pressure" either way.
 

bullet FIRE BAN - With respect to the land and other's comfort, there are absolutely no campfires and no smoking (outside an enclosed vehicle) permitted anywhere on OLT property (unless explicitly posted). Contained camp stoves are allowed but must be in good working order and carefully attended. Hydroelectric powered grills are available at the Pavilion for all guest's use.
 
bullet NO GLASS OUTSIDE - Breakable containers (including glass and ceramic) are not allowed around our pools, ponds, sauna, or trails. Many guests enjoy soaking and walking barefoot here.
 
bullet RESERVATIONS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Even when we have accomodations available, we frequently have to turn guests away. A limited number of people are allowed onsite to ensure the open space is not overcrowded. Group size and length of stay are also managed to avoid any space being dominated and to encourage diversity. Our sparsely spaced camping and comfortable accomodations are all frequently reserved well in advance. Learn more about Admission and Reservations.
 
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We welcome a diverse clientele of couples, singles, and families from all walks of life. Children are always welcome, though they must be supervised at all times. We strive to provide a safe environment for all, and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.
 

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All our ponds and pools are outdoors - there are no private pools, saunas, or hot tubs. There are six natural ponds with temperatures generally in the mid-90's and the Upper Top Pond hotter depending on the season, an 80 foot long spring-fed swimming pool (no chlorine!) in the high 80's, and several extra-heated hot pools that range from 103 to 108 degrees. We also feature a wet / dry sauna with a cool basin of spring water flowing through it.

 
 

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Our altitude ranges from 8,600 to 9,000 feet. If you are visiting from a significantly lower elevation, take it easy on your first day here. Also, at this altitude the sunlight can be intense at all times of year, so pay attention to avoid painful sunburns! Chemical sunblocks and lotions can seriously degrade our water quality, so please use them judiciously when soaking or ask about the excelent alternatives available at the Welcome Center.
 

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Our indoor lodging is rustic but not "primitive". All accommodations have heat and electricity, though there are no telephones, clocks, radios, or televisions in any of the rooms. None of the accommodations have private baths - there are two coed restrooms with showers and one tub. Overnight guests may arrive and start using the pools any time after 9:00 am but check-in time for all lodging is 4:00 pm. (Some rooms and cabin may be ready earlier.)
 

bullet Camping is available, with a variety of sites suitable for vehicles (cars, campers, smaller RVs) or tents. Campsites can be reserved year-round. Specific Vehicle sites may be reserved but specific Tent sites are always first-come, first-served. The shared Oak House kitchen and Pavillion grills are available for use by campers and day visitors. Please keep food in vehicles and always be mindful of animals (including curious deer, racoons, squirrels, and the occasional bear).

  
 

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Limited cell phone access.  To maintain this peaceful, natural environment, we ask guests to keep mobile phones off in public areas beyond the gate. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon reception is spotty. Other services are non-existant. There are two convenience phones available; local calls are free but calling cards are need for long-distance calls (outside of the San Luis Valley). Calling cards may be purchased during office hours.
 

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Well Behaved Pets are allowed, though we collect a $50 deposit which is refunded only if there are no problems (including barking, whining, and aggression). We highly recommend visiting once to experience how sensitive the space is before deciding to bring a pet. Pets may accompany their owners in ourprivate cabins but are not permitted in the Oak House, Sunset Rooms, or bathrooms. Owners should keep pets leashed and within their immediate control at all times and locations, well away from soaking waters and walkways.
 

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Bring your flashlights or headlamps. In order to maintain our peaceful, natural atmosphere, there is minimal outdoor lighting on the grounds and none between the natural rock ponds. As a coutesy, please be careful not to shine bright lights toward other guests after dark.
 

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Pack Camera Devices Away Around Others. Photography of scenery is allowed, but you must get explicit permission before taking any photos or videos of people. Be considerate of people's comfort and always respect their personal boundaries.
 

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Valley View Hot Springs is protected and shared by Orient Land Trust, a charitable nonprofit organization. We rely on the contributions of individuals like you to achieve our mission