Dude ranch reopens as nude ranch

TUCSON, Arizona (AP) -- Levi's and Stetson's are definitely out at the former La Tierra Linda Guest Ranch Resort, a dude-ranch-turned-nude-ranch where Hollywood's elite vacationed during the 1930s.

Well, the hats are still OK.

The 30-acre ranch, renamed the Mira Vista Resort opens Monday as a clothing optional resort, where nudists can enjoy lounging by the pool, playing tennis, doing yoga or Pilates.

"It's hard to go back to wearing a bathing suit once you've tried it nude," said Dave Landman, one of six new owners.

The Mira is targeting a $400 million a year industry that has doubled in three years, according to the American Association for Nude Recreation.

Landman said the Southwest is ripe for expansion, and Tucson is a good fit because its has a large population in their 40s to late 60s, the age of most who like the lifestyle.

Prior to the Mira Vista, the site was home to the Coyote Moon Resort and Spa for two years.

It offered gay and lesbian travelers holistic health education and wellness programs but closed in December.