Few experiences impress upon us the vastness of the universe and our place within it so deeply as lying quietly under the stars. Such nights leave us with an enduring sense of wonder, and for many of us will abide among our most cherished memories, a vision of clarity that can sustain us through our most difficult days.
Inspired by the Japanese practice of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), some call this “star bathing” or “celestial bathing,” the practice of immersing ourselves in the night sky, opening our hearts and minds to a profound spaciousness and immensity.
CMZC sits in a designated Dark Sky area, far from city lights. On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible in all its glory, our galaxy’s billions of stars flowing in a celestial river of glittering light. Especially for those who live in urban areas, experiencing the night sky in its full radiance can provide deep healing, nurturance, and renewal. When was the last time you saw the stars?
You want to see the night sky without light pollution.
You want to immerse yourself in star-bathing.
You want to reconnect with the vast cosmos.
You want to escape the noise of everyday life.
Darkness has become a rare treasure. Many of us will spend years without ever seeing the night sky free of artificial light; indeed, some of us may never have seen it at all. Here darkness and silence become invitations to slow down, look up, and rediscover a sense of wonder and connection.
Experience the rare gift of truly dark nights, where the vastness of the sky invites awe, stillness, and perspective. This retreat is designed for those who wish to reconnect with the rhythms of nature, by day and by night.
During your stay, you'll enjoy:
Per-night rate is per person and includes the room of your choice, three meals, tea & coffee, and the respective scope of quotation for each retreat format. Sliding scale available — reach out if cost is a barrier.
From the Edge Cabin's secluded porch above the canyon, you're within the immense Valley; the Forest branches; the Peaks' presence.
A guest favorite, the Hillside Cabin 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.
Vegetarian, mostly organic and regional, partly grown on the land in summer. Dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
The nearest airport is Alamosa (ALS), one hour away. The nearest bus stop is in Moffat, 30 minutes away. We can arrange pickup for a fee. Parking is free and safe at our property.
The center operates mostly in functional speech – we speak when needed for work or questions. In general we start our meals in silence, and then move on to a conversation part. Throughout the day, there are also opportunities when you're welcome to chat and talk with others if you'd like.
In the meditation hall (zendo), we wear dark clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees. In general, we recommend loose-fitting clothing that is not too tight or even constricting.