450 acres on the western sope of the sangre de cristo range at 8400 teet inside one of North America's largest Dark Sky Reserves.
A place built for sitting still and seeing far.
Zen begins with a simple assumption: transformation is possible.
A practice center exists to support that possibility. Through meditation, work, study, and community life, it offers the conditions to meet ourselves—and the world—with greater clarity, compassion, and presence.
In Baker Roshi's words, it is "a location that locates us" – within ourselves, within this world, and within the mystery of being alive.
Crestone Mountain Zen Center sits in the San Luis Valley, beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Wide skies, mountain silence, changing light, and vast horizons shape daily life here as much as the rhythm of practice.
Long before the Zen Center existed, this valley held deep significance for Indigenous peoples. According to local tradition, it was regarded as neutral ground—a place where conflict was set aside.
When Baker Roshi began looking for a mountain home for practice, he found this hillside. The center has remained here ever since.
Our practice is rooted in the Soto Zen lineage of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi.
Founded by Zentatsu Richard Baker Roshi and now guided by Abbot Tatsudo Nicole Baden Roshi, Crestone Mountain Zen Center continues this living tradition through residential practice, retreats, study, and everyday life.
Hover over the marked buildings to discover the places thatshape daiv lite at crestone Mountain zen center
Every accommodation at Crestone Vountain TerCenter is simple, comfortable, and part of the life of the monastery.
Whether you choose a secluded cabin or a room near the Zendo, each offers a place to slow downand settle into nractice.
From the Edge Cabin's secluded porch above the canyon, you're within the immense Valley; the Forest branches; the Peaks' presence.
The Hillside Cabin is a guest favorite. It is located on the west side of the campus overlooking the San Luis Valley. Perks include a full bathroom and kitchenette.
The Skylight Room is a spacious room with a separate entrance in the center of campus. It has a queen bed and features a large skylight with a handmade shoji screen.
The Young Pine Hut is a cozy rustic two-story log cabin for one person. Upstairs is a sitting area with a low desk. From there a ladder leads to the bed on the lower floor.
The Guest House is a spacious building with a quiet atmosphere in the center of the campus. The five private Guest House rooms are the largest accommodations we offer.
The Studio, formerly the work space of a resident potter, was recently remodeled. It has three single rooms, each furnished with a desk, tea station and wardrobe.
The Yurt is located on the outskirts of our campus with views of the local 14er peaks. It has comfortable beds for one or two persons, a deck, bookshelves, and a skylight.
The Platform Tent has room for one or two persons. It has a deck, two single beds, tables, bookshelf, canvas shelves, and hooks for clothing – and great views of the local 14ers.
The campground is located in a beautiful flat sandy area. There are 10 campsites tucked into the piñon-juniper forest. Bathrooms are a 3-minute walk away.
Experience the Center for Yourself.
Whether for a retreat, a personal stay,
or a longer period of practice.