Off-grid Alternative Energy

Hydroelectric Power

Every modern comfort Valley View's visitors enjoy, from the sauna to the cooking facilities, operate entirely “off-grid”. 

Most are powered using a highly efficient hydroelectric power plant. The same spring waters our guests soak in also warms our cabins, nourishes the plants and wildlife, and generates a moderate amount of electrical power. We dispense this limited electricity as wisely as possible, off-loading these demands as need be to compensate for drought seasons. 

The hot springs facility operates entirely off-grid and is profoundly affected by precipitation and visitor usage. As part of our educational mission, we've shared this and other natural resources with 27,000 visitors annually for decades. All energy conserved by guests is directed through our governor and into extra hot water for the soaking they so enjoy. Visitor's interest is further developed with guided Hydro tours, active research, and educational campaigns. These direct connections have inspired sustainable living practices for generations forming a wide-spread community of tourists, locals, and environmental enthusiasts. We've cultivated long-standing partnerships with schools, government, local, and environmental organizations including an engineering school who's freshman class created sustainable energy designs for our newest property, a historic ranch and campus. Simply put, the possibilities are tremendous!

The Weir - Doug Bates Hydroelectric Generator - Teresa Seitz Hydroelectric Pelton Wheel - Teresa Seitz Hydroelectric Kilowatt Meter - Doug Bates Spear Valve - Matthew Spear Valve - Doug Bates Deisel Backup Generator - Doug Bates Hydroelectric Plant - Teresa Seitz Extra 12kV powerline that was buried 9000' - Doug Bates Governor Shed - Teresa Seitz

Hydroelectric Legacy

Neil's Original Hydroelectric Generator - Teresa Seitz First Hydroelectric Shed - Doug Bates First Hydroelectric Shed - Doug Bates Neil Seitz- a Child Playing with Lightbulbs - Teresa Seitz Old 480V Generator from 3000' head plant, connected with belts to adjust RPM - Doug Bates Eric pointing out severe wear caused by dust through nozzle - Doug Bates Eric pointing out severe wear caused by dust through nozzle - Doug Bates First Hydroelectric Shed - Doug Bates

Geothermal Heating

Nearly all our cabins and buildings are heated with gentle geothermal water. The spring water slowly passes through the floor, radiating a comfortable and constant warmth like no other. The water then passes on to power the hydroelectric system, saturate riparian habitats, and support our threatened species of fish.

[technical / history brochure]

Geothermal Floor in Cedar Cabin - Doug Bates Geothermal Floor in Willow - Matthew

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.