We went to VVHS on the recommendation of a friend when she found out we were going to Mt Prinston that is about an hour away from VVHS. We wanted to see what Clothing Optional was about. We liked it so much that we cut our Mt Prinston stay short so that we could spend a few more hours there. We have not spent the night yet but plan to soon.
anyone know what altitude it at ? we live ( according to google maps ) 123 miles from there but i was always afraid it would be rather chilly there
According to their website, from about 8600' to 9000', depending on where you are on the slope. The mountain range behind, even higher. During the summer, it can get quite toasty during the day, but usually cools nicely into the 50s or 60s at night. There are those times when the temps drop lower, just as there are those times when it is quite warm at night. All the fixed accommodations have electric heat if needed, and the warm springs (Soaking Pond (Previously known as the Party Pool), the Meadow Pond, the Waterfall Pond, the top ponds, and the Swimming Pool) are fantastic in the cool night air, with the fire flies (lighting bugs) and bats flying around (July/Aug). A few years ago, the Apple Pond was created. It is artificially heated to 100+ degrees (F) as is the kiddy pool. Most of the natural ponds hang around 90-95 or a little warmer, depending on snow melt and/or rain.
It's a little trickier in the winter. Temps can vary wildly. This winter, there have been quite warm sunny days (50s). The natural ponds drift closer into the 80s though (Not really warm enough to hang out in). The Apple Pond is still quite toasty and is where you will find most people. There is also the sauna with an dip tank. It can, of course, get very cold and blizzardy. It is located in the Colorado Mountains.
I have done both winter and summer, and have enjoyed both. In winter, if you do not stay in one of the cabins/Oak House, make sure you have appropriate camping gear to keep warm (Winter sleeping bag, blankets, etc). No open flames are allowed anywhere except the pavilion cooking area, and then only when lit by the staff.
In any case, best to check the forecast, and do not just show up. They have very strict daily quotas (Not based on anything other than number of people). You need to call ahead, even for day trips. For overnighters, you need to have reservations.
John aka cobeachbum
Altitude is 8,600 ft @ VVHS village.
I volunteered there for 2 weeks in mid-Oct. 2017, and it was warmer than normal for that time of year, but I was nude all day if the sun was out, and then layered up from dusk on. The weather varies of course, and can be windy at times. I was told it is generally 5-10 deg F warmer at the village than down on the valley floor of the San Luis Valley (where Everson Ranch is). Check the OLT website, they have a link to local weather station displayed. Search Weather Underground for Villa Grove and Moffat stations to give you current data.
The San Luis Valley/Villa Grove area weather can be very different than the Salida/Arkansas River valley (which is known as the "Banana Belt of Colorado") just to the north, and very different than the Front Range area. There are times when the VVHS area is WARMER than those areas north or east due to the barrier effect of the Sangre De Cristo Mts.
But fear not, the hot Appletree pools are about 104 & 105 F (heated by hydroelectric power), and the other pools run about body temp. Don't forget the sauna. And there is a fire in the Pavilion nearly every night! - Nudeprewd 2/23/2018
anyone know what altitude it at ? we live ( according to google maps ) 123 miles from there but i was always afraid it would be rather chilly thereAccording to their website, from about 8600' to 9000', ......................John aka cobeachbum
To John/cobeachbum ----- My apologizes man, I did not see your thorough and excellent reply to the OP question at the time I began my reply. I know you are the go-to guy for intel on this wonderful place! It's always great to get a broader perspective that covers the long period you have visited. My recent visits account for less than 3 weeks total, but I have been just thoroughly impressed with how hard Doug B. and the current team have worked to make refinements where absolutely necessary to meet critical needs while be very intentional in maintaining Neil and Terry intent and vision and the VVHS community culture. It was very insightful for me to get a behind-the-scenes look as a Camp Host, and working with many of the staff on maintenance projects, re-doing the teepee, front office operations, giving Discovery tours, helping with Astronomy Tour . Take care - Nudeprewd 2/23/2018
No problem. It's always nice to get multiple viewpoints from multiple people. I don't get there nearly often enough anymore. I now live ~1000 miles away. I started going back when Neil and Terry were still running it (prior to OLT being formed). Up until 2001, I was there 8-10 times a year. Now it's usually every other year or so. Missed last year due to the less than desirable weather (rainy and chilly). I plan on being there late July this year (No specific dates yet). It would be nice to meet a fellow TN'r. It is heaven on earth.
John aka cobeachbum
like i said before we live 123 miles from there and have never gone ,
living at 6,700 ft we know how fickle the weather can be at higher altitudes
even here it can get chilly in mid July at night , thanks for all the info
One of the most relaxing places in America, I was there with my ex girlfriend 2 years ago. I'm going back next week and will be camping there for 4 nights while I fish and explore the area. I'm going alone, so I hope that doesn't seem super weird to others that will be there.
Thoughts?
Anyone want to meet me there?
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