Roughly 7,800 feet. Walk slowly for the first day, drink more water than feels necessary, and let the altitude set the pace.
Bright days, cool nights, and afternoon weather that arrives without warning. Layers in every season, in every month.
Far from city light. Step outside after evening practice and the whole sky is there, close enough to lean into.
Four unhurried steps, whether you are coming for a single afternoon at the stupa or a week of retreat.
Weekly gatherings, the monthly tsok, or a retreat week. The calendar shows what is open and what asks for registration.
Simple lodging is sometimes available on the land during retreats. Otherwise the town of Crestone offers small inns, cabins, and rentals a few minutes away.
Layers, a warm hat, and a shawl or blanket for sitting.
Shoes for uneven ground, easily slipped off at the shrine room door.
Your text, mala, or cushion if you keep one. Everything else is here.
Incense, a butter lamp, or flowers, if you wish to offer at the stupa.
From the north, US-285 south through Poncha Pass. From the east, CO-17 north out of Alamosa. Either way the valley floor opens wide and flat, and the range stays with you the whole way.
At Moffat, turn east on County Road T. Thirteen straight miles cross the valley floor and climb gently toward the mountains and the town of Crestone.
The final approach is on unpaved local roads, passable for most vehicles in fair weather. We send turn-by-turn directions and the gate details once you tell us you are coming.
The land and the stupa keep the sun’s hours. The shrine room keeps the calendar’s.
Open daily, from 9am to 5pm MT, for circumambulation, offering, and quiet practice. No appointment needed.
Crestone holds one of the most concentrated gatherings of contemplative centers in North America. If you are here for several days, these neighbors are worth the visit.
A short note is all it takes. We will confirm the hours, send directions, and make a place for you.