![]() Valleyside Hot Springs provides an opportunity for visitors to reconnect with nature and soak up some much-needed relaxation in one of Colorado’s most beautiful spots. With its unique combination of sand dunes recreation and wildlife viewing opportunities, this spot makes for a memorable experience for anyone wanting to get away from it all. The mile-long hike up to the top of the peak is worth it for those seeking adventure and exploration. On a clear day, visitors can take in breathtaking views of Lake Hamilton from the winding ridge trail that leads to Valley View’s hot springs pool. With its two natural ponds and waterfall pond, Valley View Hot Springs is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the wonders of Colorado’s desert hot springs. There are even a couple of chlorine-free waterfall ponds tucked away in secluded areas for those who prefer more privacy while they relax. ![]() Optional hot springs can also be found onsite, with natural ponds ranging from body temperature to slightly warmer than what you would find in a traditional swimming pool. The hot springs pool is located at Orient Mine, an old gold-mining site that has been restored for tourism purposes. Swimming pools and soaking ponds are two of its main attractions, giving visitors the freedom to enjoy a relaxing soak in its crystal-clear waters. It is like a secret oasis in the middle of nature, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, waiting to be discovered. Valley View Hot Springs is the perfect place to dip into the world of swimming pools and soaking ponds. Swimming Pools And Soaking PondsĪ soaking pond at Valley View Hot Springs Hiking trails provide breathtaking views, while camping is available seasonally for those looking for a longer stay. In addition to soaking in the naturally heated waters, there are many other ways to relax and explore. This allows visitors to enjoy their experience without worrying about what they wear or how they look. One of the main draws to Valley View Hot Springs is its clothing optional policy. Swimming pools, air conditioning, hiking trails and spectacular views are just some of the attractions that await visitors. Located on Orient Land Trust property, this hot springs destination boasts a variety of activities for all ages and interests. ![]() A paradise of adventure and relaxation, it offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Valley View Hot Springs, nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Colorado, is a hidden gem that beckons visitors to explore its natural beauty. Its more recent history as an iron mine, starting in the late 1800s, has connections to Colorado mining history.Valley View Hot Spring in the Orient Land Trust, Villa Grove, CO The mine is also a glimpse into the geologic history of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the San Luis Valley, a glimpse into a past that begins over 1 billion years ago. OLT's voluntary closure of the mine is part of similar closures throughout the American West to prevent the spread of this disease. White Nose Syndrome has not been found in Orient Mine as it doesn't, so far, affect migratory bats, but the Orient Mine is also home to five or six populations of hibernating bats. The Orient Mine is a designated Colorado Natural Area and Colorado Division of Wildlife Watchable Wildlife site.Īccess to the interior of the Orient mine is currently prohibited due to White Nose Syndrome, a fungus that severely disrupts the sleeping pattern of hibernating bats to the point of colony collapse. Bats were first documented at the Orient Mine in 1967 and have played a vital role in the chemical- and pesticide-free agriculture of the Valley. Today, the Orient Mine is significant because for the last forty years or so it has been home to nearly 250,000 migratory bats. Today nothing remains of the towns except stories and a few foundations.Īt its peak, the town of Orient had a population of more than 400, supporting a library, barber shop, school, 2 restaurants, a boarding house for 300, a saloon, a milling company and other small businesses including a supplier of work clothing. (There is no evidence of Chinese or other Asian miners working in the mine.) The Orient Mine had two associated town sites - one in the upper area in the early years and the lower town site which was active in the early 1900's. It is believed that the name Orient came from the Old French word meaning east (rising sun), since the mine is located on the eastern side of the San Luis Valley. The Orient Mine, active from 1880 through 1932, was the largest producer of iron ore in Colorado, having produced about two million tons of limonite.
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