Where is La Veta?
It's located in the South Central part of Colorado; 15 miles southwest of Walsenburg, CO on Hwy 12. It is about an hour from Trinidad, Colorado (to our southeast) and about an hour from Alamosa (to our west). Pueblo, Colorado is about an hour to the north. Colorado Springs is just under two hours away.

Click the map for larger map.

What is the nearest airport?
The Colorado Springs airport is recommended. It is an hour and forty-five minute drive from the Colorado Springs airport to La Veta. Most of that drive is on I-25 - an interstate highway in good condition. The Colorado Springs airport is small and very easy to negotiate! Naturally, the Denver airport is an option, but because it is a large international airport, negotiating this airport can a bit more daunting, but is navigable. Also, the drive from Denver to La Veta will take approximately 3-1/2 hours depending on traffic.

Should I drive?
If possible, yes! If you fly, you’ll need to rent a car at the airport and drive the rest of the way. You may not need a car very often while in La Veta (all venues are a very short walk from each other), but the surrounding area is beautiful and country drives would be well worth your time while visiting this area. Weekly rentals are usually reasonable, even more so if you share the cost with a friend.

Are sewing machines provided?
Machines are provided only to international participants. In order to do your best work you need to sew on the your machine - and your best machine, if possible. If flying, you can ship your machine, or they can be placed in a roll-a-board. Pack all the accessories in your checked baggage to help eliminate weight. We have had students ship machines in advance - another reasonable option. If you are driving, bring your machine with you.

What will the weather be like?
Your guess is as good as ours. La Veta can be unpredictably windy. The weather is diverse all year round. Summers are rarely super hot. Here is a link that we use to get our projected forecasts and see local weather - it's not La Veta, but it is nearby and will be helpful. http://www.wunderground.com/US/CO/Gardner.html

What is there to do for my accompanying guest?
The area is loaded with hiking trails. Trail information can be obtained from the San Isabel National Forest office in La Veta. The world-class, Grandote Peaks Golf Course in La Veta was designed by the fameous Tom Weiskoph. Lathrop State Park , located on Hwy 160, is less than a quarter-hour drive from La Veta. The park offers fishing and more hiking opportunities. There is a 9-hole golf course adjacent to the Lathrop State Park as well. Day trips from La Veta include The Great Sand Dunes National Monument, Taos , New Mexico, and The Scenic Highway of Legends (Hwy 12).

Will my cell phone work?
In the past, cell phone service in La Veta was poor, but it has improved greatly since 2008. In most cases your cell phone have sufficient signal.

What is the elevation of La Veta?
La Veta is 7013 feet above sea level. You may feel a bit short of breath until you get accustomed to the altitude, it is rare that you'll experience anything more than that. Drink plenty of water.

How do I cope with the elevation?
Drink water! If you are concerned, get to Colorado a day early and stay in Colorado Springs (elev. 6008) – better yet, stay in Pueblo (elev. 4662). Then come on up to La Veta. If you’re coming from the West – you’re probably driving and that will help ease you into the elevation. However, there is nothing at mid-elevation west of La Veta (Durango is only 500 ft. lower. Pagosa Springs is 500 feet higher as is Alamosa). Oh, and did we mention, drink water?

What about dry skin?
Drink water! This is high desert. You’ll dry out on the inside and out. So bring plenty of sun screen and moisturizing lotion. Oh, and did we mention, drink water?

What if I have dietary needs?
We can accommodate meals that need to be vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free, and non-dairy. We cannot make provision for South Beach , Adkins, or other similar diets. It is imperative that you let us know your dietary needs in advance.

What area attractions should I visit?
The drive to Cuchara (elev. 8600) is a must. It is only 12 miles south, but a charming mountain village. You’ll pass the great dike walls of the Spanish Peaks so have a camera ready. The drive up and over the La Veta pass is also a beautiful drive. We’ll give you specific maps if you want them.

The Ryus Avenue Bakery is two doors down, and a must. However, it is only open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning.

Charlie’s Cash and Carry will provide you with most anything you might need in the way of grocery items, allergy pills, ice cream (in the summer) and all sorts of other goodies. Local teenagers man the soda bar during our tourist season. During off-season, you may have to wait until someone can get free to scoop it up.

Will shops be open?
We will notify all the shops that you are in town and hope that you'll patronize them. Your presence in La Veta is appreciated by all the merchants. Just remember, La Veta is a small town so seeing all the shops won't take more than an hour.