As part of our educational outreach, Orient Land Trust has partnered with a photographer on a project focused on people. It is a long standing practice of OLT to discourage snapshots of people around the hot springs for several reasons - some are concerned about privacy, some just would rather not have to be concerned with a photographer present in our natural and scenic environment. For this project, we are taking steps to keep the location confidential and only photograph people who give their express consent to participate. We have a few samples from the photographer demonstrating the quality and artistry that recommends this idea. We believe that these photographs will be treasured and admired. We can see the possibility of a gallery exhibition and maybe a collectible book. Our intention for this project is to contribute to the education of clothing optional choices and the benefits available as well as record some of the people that support and value this place. There was once a photo montage in the living room at Oak House that members and guests enjoyed and gave people a glimpse of good times and familiar faces in and around the hot springs. This project might have similar appeal to many of us.

The photographer is a talented and professional imagemaker who is taking time during small breaks from their consistent work to photograph at Valley View. Just as we value your privacy and hold it to the utmost standard, the identity of the photographer will remain anonymous until serious photo or donor applicants are in place.

The artist's writes:

"There is a hidden but beloved retreat nestled in the remote mountains of the American West. Its waters are a magnet for those searching for retreat, renewal, respite and redemption. The individual that seeks out a hot spring is a certain type. Adventurous, uninhibited, open. They are drawn by a search for a place that affords them the external expression of an internal quest for freedom. Freedom of self-expression. Freedom from judgment. This photo essay is a visual representation of the human spirit coming as close as it can to leaving the body. Casting off stifling societal vestments in favor of garments composed of their royal humanity. They choose instead to walk in the Emperor's Clothes."

If you are interested in this project, either as a subject for the photographer or in helping support the cost of pursuing this creation, please contact: Doug Bishop, email address .

Saturday, May 6th. 2023 at the Everson Ranch

The ranch will open at 9:00am. We start to work at 9:30am and continue as long as people like to help that day.

This is a free, fun, lighthearted and liberating event. Gardeners and non gardeners of all ages are welcome.

On 5.6.2023 gardeners all over the world are getting together to shed some or all their clothes to attend to the gardens and connect with the natural world. This year OLT again is joining this annual event at the Everson Ranch and we are inviting you to celebrate with us gardening in the open. We might use your help in the greenhouses, the garden and grounds keeping. Weeding and planting gladiolus bulbs might be on the menu as well.

You might want to dress in layers since the weather in early May at the ranch is unpredictable. It could be mild and comfortable but it could also be windy and cool. Precipitation, rain or snow, is also a possibility.

Please bring: Solid shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, sun glasses, water bottle, and gardening gloves. You might like to bring your lunch to enjoy after gardening. After lunch there will be a tour of the ranch for those that are interested. If you are thinking of trying naked gardening or just would like to experience working in the garden at the Everson Ranch, please come and join us!

Sabine Borchers, Garden Manager

The daylight hours are increasing, the sun is moving toward spring. OLT is getting ready for the warmer weather. We anticipate increased visitation. We are hiring! The positions available will be in the Reservations/front desk registration department and in the Housekeeping department. We operate seven days a week and different shifts are available.

Pay Range: $14.00 to $16.00 per hour starting wage based on qualifications and experience.

FLSA Status: Nonexempt.

Benefits may include: An employee may be eligible for OLT group health plan coverage after 60 depending on the hours worked and for Paid Time Off (PTO) benefits after 120 days of employment depending on the hours worked.

If you are interested, contact Kelley at 719-256-4315 or email to request an application or for more information.

Link to full Front Desk Job Description

Link to full Housekeeping Job Description

Link to Job Application

We are looking to fill two positions in our Maintenance Department. Tasks include, but are not limited to, hydro-electric power system operation, understanding of electrical (DC systems as well as AC systems), mechanical systems, heating and cooling systems, building upkeep, building renovation, general building skills, masonry, plumbing, drinking water and sanitation systems, geothermal heating systems, groundskeeping, forest mitigation, potential firefighting and first responder, open water management, electric cart, gas and diesel vehicles and generator systems, and hydraulics.

Beyond this we are needing the skills of problem solving, diplomacy, patience, crew coordination, flexibility, inspiration and innovation.

This is a facility that is open to the public and is clothing optional. Consistent, respectful, positive and smooth interactions with guests and other employees is a prerequisite.

Pay Range: $16.00 to $20.00 per hour starting wage based on qualifications and experience. FLSA Status: Non Exempt Benefits include: An employee may be eligible for OLT group health plan coverage the first of the month after 60 days of employment depending on the hours worked and for Paid Time Off (PTO) benefits after 120 days of employment depending on the hours worked.

Please send all serious inquiries to Mark Jacobi, .

Link to full Facilities job description 

Link to Job Application

Members are invited to the return of our Member Appreciation Weekend on July 28-30, 2023. 

We'll have live music on Friday and Saturday nights and more.

Stay tuned for more details.