Photos: Path by Catherine Hollander, Ritrö Gönpo by David Levine, Dharma Ocean Retreat Center by Catherine Hollander

 Crestone, Colorado

FootpathDharma Ocean has its home in Crestone, Colorado, a small settlement resting on the high desert floor of the San Luis Valley. Surrounded by the spectacular 14,000-foot peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, Crestone is well known for the power and beauty of its natural landscape, and for the stillness and intensity of its spiritual energy. 

 

Ritro GonpoSpiritual leaders have long acknowledged the potency of the area, singling it out as one of the best places in the world for retreat practice. Reggie Ray, upon climbing the mountain known as Kit Carson, encountered the energy of Ritrö Gönpo, the Protector of Mountain Retreats, watching over the valley and its practice activities. Ritrö Gönpo has subsequently become a major protector of Dharma Ocean, our community, and our work.

 

Owing to its unique qualities — and to the ongoing efforts of the Manitou Foundation — Crestone is now one of North America's premier centers for spiritual exploration. Since the 1970s, a wide range of traditions have established themselves here with Manitou’s assistance. In 2005, Dharma Ocean joined this community. Since purchasing a Teacher’s Residence and retreat land, all of the foundation's major training programs have occurred in this stunning and powerful location.