Mount Princeton Hot Springs, Colorado: Complete Guide

Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado is a year-round mountain retreat that offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Tucked away in the Rockies, this historic hot springs resort appeals to families, couples, solo travelers, and wellness seekers alike.

The following guide, written in Chanin’s travel-inspired voice, covers everything you need to know – from quick facts and directions to the rich history, best visiting times, soothing hot spring pools, nearby activities, and practical tips for an unforgettable visit.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Quick Overview

Getting There: Directions to Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Reaching Mount Princeton Hot Springs is part of the adventure. The resort is located in Nathrop, Colorado, roughly 120 miles southwest of Denver and 100 miles west of Colorado Springs. Here’s how to get there:

By Car

From Denver, take US Highway 285 South through scenic mountain passes toward Buena Vista (about 2.5 hours drive). From Colorado Springs, drive west on US 24 to Hartsel, then south on US 285 (about 2 hours).

Once near Nathrop, look for County Road 162 (Chalk Creek Drive) and follow it west for 4.5 miles into Chalk Creek Canyon – the hot springs resort entrance is well-marked on the right. The drive offers beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks and the distinctive Chalk Cliffs of Mount Princeton.

By Public Transport

Public transit is limited in this rural area. Regional buses (like Bustang’s Outrider service) have stops in Buena Vista and Salida, connecting from Denver or Gunnison. If you arrive by bus, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or shuttle for the last 15–20 mile stretch to the resort.

Car rentals are recommended for flexibility. The nearest small airports are in Buena Vista and Salida (for private planes), while the closest major airports are Denver International and Colorado Springs Airport – plan to rent a car from there.

Directions Tip

Winter travelers should check road conditions, as mountain passes can be snowy. US 285 is generally well-maintained year-round, but always be prepared for sudden weather changes at high elevation.

A Brief History of Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Mount Princeton Hot Springs boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century​. Local Native American tribes, such as the Ute, likely knew of and cherished these warm waters long before the area was settled, seeking their therapeutic benefits.

The first recorded development came with Colorado’s mining boom – as prospectors and railroad workers arrived in the 1870s, the hot springs were “discovered” by settlers. By 1879, a simple bathhouse existed here, and the springs quickly gained fame as a place to soak away ailments and weary muscles​.

Over the decades, the site evolved from a humble bathing spot into a bona fide wellness destination. In 1897, the facilities expanded and the resort began welcoming guests year-round​. During the early 20th century, health seekers traveled from afar to “take the waters,” believing in the springs’ healing properties. The resort’s historic bath house (still in use today) stands as a testament to that era.

Through the 1900s, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort continued to grow, adding modern pools and lodging while preserving its historic charm. Today it is part of Colorado’s Historic Hot Springs Loop, highlighting its over-a-century-long legacy of wellness and hospitality​.

Best Time to Visit Mount Princeton Hot Springs

One of the great advantages of Mount Princeton Hot Springs is that it’s open year-round, each season offering its own special allure. The “best” time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking:

Summer (June–August)

Warm sunny days and cool nights make summer ideal for enjoying all outdoor activities. This is peak season for family vacations – the waterslide is open for kids (and the young at heart)​, and nearby rivers are running high for rafting.

You can soak in the hot springs under blue skies, then cool off in the fresh mountain air. Hiking trails to alpine lakes and Colorado’s famous 14ers (14,000-ft peaks) are fully accessible. Do note summer is the busiest time, so the pools can be lively with families. Reservations for lodging should be made well in advance.

Autumn (September–October)

Fall brings crisp air, vibrant golden aspen foliage, and thinner crowds. The days are still pleasant for hiking and biking, while cool evenings are perfect for a steamy soak. Many consider autumn the most beautiful time in the Rockies – imagine sitting in a natural creekside hot spring while surrounded by fall colors.

It’s also a great season for photography and spotting wildlife preparing for winter. Early autumn (September) still offers plenty of activities, and by late October you might catch the first dusting of snow on the peaks, adding to the magic.

Winter (November–March)

A winter visit is a cozy, enchanting experience. Snow-covered peaks tower above as you relax in 100°F+ mineral water – a surreal and rejuvenating contrast. Guests can soak while watching gentle snowfall around them​.

The resort keeps pools open even on the coldest days; walking between pools in freezing air is bracing, but once you’re submerged in warmth, it’s pure bliss. Nights are long and perfect for stargazing from the hot springs (soaking under a starry winter sky is unforgettable). Winter is also comparatively quiet (aside from holiday periods), so you may have a pool almost to yourself, especially on weekdays.

Adventure seekers can take advantage of nearby skiing at Monarch Mountain (about 45 minutes away) or go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing – the resort even offers complimentary snowshoe and ski rentals for guests​. Just be sure to bring warm robes and sandals for walking between pools, and plan for winter driving conditions.

Spring (April–May)

Spring is a season of renewal at the hot springs. As snow melts, rivers swell and wildflowers begin to bloom in the valleys. Early spring (April) is “mud season” in the mountains, meaning some higher-elevation trails are still snowed in, and tourist crowds are minimal.

This can be the perfect time for a quiet, peaceful retreat – you might have the hot springs largely to yourself on a weekday. By May, temperatures moderate, hillsides turn green, and more trails open up. Soaking in spring means enjoying cooler air (great for contrast with the hot water) and seeing the landscape come back to life.

In summary: There’s truly no bad time to visit. Summer offers energetic fun and full amenities, fall offers tranquility and color, winter offers romance and wonder, and spring offers solitude and rejuvenation. Whenever you go, the hot springs will be ready to welcome you with warmth.

Hot Springs Features and Amenities

Visitors enjoying the modern infinity pool at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, which offers stunning mountain views and an ever-warm soaking experience. The heart of Mount Princeton is of course its hot springs pools, which come in a variety of styles – from natural creekside pools to man-made relaxation pools – each with its own character. Here are the key features of the hot springs and amenities:

Historic Bath House & Soaking Pools

The resort’s historic bath house is a rustic bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, now modernized but retaining its old-time charm. Inside, you’ll find the Soaking Pool – a large pool filled with natural hot spring water – and an Exercise Pool (kept slightly cooler for lap swimming or families).

This area is open to all ages, and is often the first stop for day visitors. The bath house offers showers, lockers, and a small shop. It’s the hub where you purchase day passes and rent towels. Stepping into the Bath House pools lets you soak where visitors have relaxed for over a century.

Creekside Hot Springs Pools

One of the most unique features at Mount Princeton are the natural rock pools in Chalk Creek. Along the bank of the cool Chalk Creek, dozens of “hot pots” have been formed by arranging river rocks​. Hot mineral water bubbles up directly into the creek bed at ~140 °F, and mixes with the chilly creek water.

By moving rocks, you can control how much cold water flows in, creating your perfect bath temperature. These creek pools vary from bathwater warm to very hot (temperatures can range roughly 33 °F to 120 °F depending on mixing​!). Each pool is shallow (about one foot deep) with a pleasant sandy bottom, great for sitting and lounging.

With around 20 natural pools available, you can hop between them to find one that suits you​. Soaking “in the wild” with the river rushing by and mountains overhead is an unforgettable experience. It’s family-friendly (kids love splashing and rearranging rocks) and open year-round (in spring runoff, some pools may be cooler, but there are always hot spots).

Insider tip: bring water shoes or sandals for comfort on the rocks, and be cautious stepping in – stones can be slippery. Also, don’t forget to look up: the view of Mount Princeton and the pine forests from the creek is amazing.

Upper Pools & Infinity Pool

Above the creek on a terrace, the resort has built additional modern pools known as the upper pools. The star here is the Infinity Pool, a large geometric pool with an infinity-edge design that seems to blend into the mountain horizon.

It offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks while you soak​. The water in the infinity pool is warm (usually around 90–95 °F, so comfortable for longer soaks or even light swimming) and it’s big enough for families to enjoy together. Next to it are other upper pools with various temperatures; one may be hotter for soaking and another cooler for a quick refresh.

In summer, this area really shines – a 700-foot waterslide plunges into one of the upper pools​, providing hours of fun for kids and adults alike. (The water slide is open seasonally, typically Memorial Day to Labor Day​.)

Spa & Club (Adults-Only Area)

For guests seeking a quieter or more luxurious experience, the resort’s Spa & Club area is a must. This section (accessible to overnight guests or day-spa patrons age 16+) features additional exclusive pools and wellness amenities​.

There are cascading hot springs pools of varying temperatures, and even a cold plunge tub for contrast therapy​. In the spa building, you’ll find a sauna, steam room, and a fitness center, as well as a yoga studio offering complimentary fitness classes daily.

The Spa & Club area has its own serene relaxation pool with an infinity edge, often much quieter than the public pools – perfect for couples or solo wellness travelers who want a peaceful soak away from the splashing of kids.

There’s also a juice bar where you can grab a smoothie or refreshment between soaks. Booking a spa treatment (like a massage or facial) grants access to this area, or it’s included if you stay overnight in the resort.

Facilities & Cleanliness

All hot spring pools are well-maintained and drained regularly. The water is fresh and rich in minerals but notably odorless (non-sulfur), so you won’t experience the “rotten egg” smell found at some hot springs​. This makes soaking even more pleasant.

The resort provides showers and changing rooms, and towel rentals are available (bring your own towel and flip-flops if you want to save on the deposit​). Lifeguards are not on duty, so parents should supervise children.

The general admission allows use of all public pools (Bath House, Creek, Upper Pools, Infinity & slide) for the day​. If you stay as a guest, you have 24-hour access to certain pools and after-hours privileges to soak under the stars.

In short, the hot springs at Mount Princeton offer something for everyone – whether you want a natural creek soak in a rock-lined pool you built yourself, a family-friendly swim with a slide and views, or a quiet spa sanctuary for healing and rejuvenation. The combination of these features is what makes this resort special in the Colorado hot springs scene.

Activities In and Around Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Beyond blissful soaking, the Mount Princeton area is an outdoor playground. Whether you’re an adventurer or just looking to unwind in nature, you’ll find plenty to do:

Hiking & Nature Walks

Surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest and the Collegiate Peaks, Mount Princeton is a hiker’s paradise. Ambitious hikers can tackle Mount Princeton itself – a challenging 14,197 ft summit for experienced adventurers. (It’s a strenuous all-day hike/climb, so proper preparation is needed.)

For something easier, try the Agnes Vaille Waterfall Trail, a short hike (1 mile round-trip) that leads to a pretty cascade in Chalk Creek Canyon. Another nearby gem is the Colorado Trail segments that run by Mount Princeton, offering moderate hikes with wildflowers and views.

Mountain Biking & Cycling

The Buena Vista and Salida area has excellent mountain biking trails, from high alpine routes to riverside paths. The resort offers complimentary mountain bike rentals for guests​, so you can pedal around.

One popular ride is along County Road 162 further west past the resort, heading toward the ghost town of St. Elmo (the road is dirt and moderately uphill – e-bikes or strong legs recommended!). Road cyclists can enjoy the scenic paved highways with wide shoulders, like US 285 and US 24, but be prepared for elevation gains. In winter, fat-tire biking on snow is an option (fat bikes also available to rent​).

Exploring St. Elmo Ghost Town

A trip up the road (about 12 miles beyond the resort) takes you to St. Elmo, one of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns. This once-bustling mining town of the 1880s is now abandoned but maintained as a historic site. Wander down Main Street to see old wooden storefronts and cabins frozen in time.

You can feed chipmunks by hand at the general store – a hit with kids. The backdrop of mountains and the whisper of history make it an eerie and fascinating excursion. St. Elmo is accessible by car in summer and fall (the county typically plows the road in winter, but check conditions).

River Rafting & Water Sports

The Arkansas River, just minutes away near Buena Vista, is renowned for whitewater rafting and fishing. In summer, outfitters in Buena Vista offer half-day and full-day rafting trips through Browns Canyon National Monument, a gorgeous river canyon with class III-IV rapids – perfect for families with older kids and thrill-seekers.

If you prefer calmer water, sections of the Arkansas upstream have gentler rapids for a scenic float. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular. For fishing enthusiasts, the river is gold-medal trout water; guided fly-fishing trips can be arranged. After a day of splashing in the cold river, returning to the hot springs to warm up is pure bliss.

Horseback Riding

Seeing the Colorado high country on horseback is a memorable experience. Local stables (some in Nathrop and others in Buena Vista) offer guided horseback rides through mountain trails, suitable for beginners and children.

You might ride through wildflower meadows or up onto ridges with panoramic views of the valley. Some rides even pass near the Chalk Cliffs or have picnic options. This is a great family activity – just be sure to wear long pants and closed shoes.

Spa and Wellness Activities

For those focused on wellness, the resort’s spa offers plenty to fill your day. Beyond soaking, you can book massage therapy, hot stone treatments, facials, or body wraps at the spa. Yoga classes are offered most mornings – imagine starting your day with mountain-view yoga, then soaking in a hot spring.

The relaxation lounges at the spa give you space to read or meditate. Wellness travelers often create their own mini retreat: morning stretch, healthy lunch, afternoon massage, evening soak under the stars. Mount Princeton’s serene environment lends itself to recharging your mind and body.

Family-Friendly Fun

If you’re traveling with kids, aside from the pools and waterslide, there’s more to keep them entertained. The resort often has a soda fountain or snack bar (seasonal) for ice cream and treats by the pool. The nearby town of Buena Vista has a great playground and splash park by the Arkansas River, as well as occasional outdoor concerts in summer that are very family-friendly.

Consider a short drive to Buena Vista’s Deerhammer Distillery – kids can have a homemade root beer while adults sample craft whiskey (a little something for everyone!). Back at the resort, you can stroll on the nature paths around the property – try an evening walk to spot deer or see the Milky Way on a clear night.

Winter Sports

In winter, beyond soaking, you can ski or snowboard at Monarch Ski Area (about a 45-minute drive south, near Salida), which is a local favorite for powder without big crowds. Alternatively, head north about an hour to Ski Cooper near Leadville for gentle family skiing.

The resort provides free cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals – you can ski right from your cabin if snow is on the ground, or find groomed trails in Buena Vista and Salida. Snowmobiling tours are also available up Cottonwood Pass or around St. Elmo for adrenaline junkies. After any chilly adventure, the hot springs will soothe your muscles.

Is Nudity Allowed at Mount Princeton Hot Springs?

No, nudity is not allowed at Mount Princeton Hot Springs. This is a family-friendly, public resort, and swimsuits are required in all public pool areas.

If you book a private spa service, you may undress for your treatment (proper draping is always used), but outside in the hot springs pools and creekside pools, everyone must wear swimwear at all times. It’s all about keeping the atmosphere relaxing and comfortable for guests of all ages.

5 Accommodations near Mount Princeton Hot Springs

1. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort:
The most convenient choice — stay on-site in cozy cabins, cliffside rooms, or lodge suites. Includes unlimited soaking privileges.

2. Chalk Creek Campground:
Budget-friendly camping and RV sites right along a beautiful creek. Only a few minutes’ drive to the springs.

3. Best Western Vista Inn (Buena Vista):
Comfortable, clean hotel with mountain views and an indoor pool. Great value and close to downtown BV.

4. Surf Hotel (Buena Vista):
Boutique luxury! Stylish rooms right by the Arkansas River. Ideal for couples looking for a little extra romance.

5. Palace Hotel (Salida):
Historic charm in downtown Salida. Unique Victorian-style rooms and easy access to shops and restaurants.

5 Top Food Points Nearby Mount Princeton Hot Springs

1. Mary Murphy Steak House (on-site):
Steaks, trout, hearty breakfasts, and mountain views without leaving the resort.

2. House Rock Kitchen (Buena Vista):
Healthy bowls, burgers, and laid-back vibes. Big patio for sunny days.

3. Eddyline Brewery (Buena Vista):
Pizzas, burgers, craft beer, and a lively, casual scene near the river.

4. Wesley & Rose (Surf Hotel):
Farm-to-table elegance. Perfect for a date night with upscale cocktails and fine dining.

5. Amicas Pizza and Microbrewery (Salida):
Wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and house-brewed beer in a fun, family-friendly setting.

On a Final Note

With its steamy hot springs, stunning mountain setting, and array of activities, Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado truly offers the best of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you come for a day or stay for a week, you’ll find yourself slowing down and savoring life’s simple pleasures – from a quiet sunrise soak to a hearty family dinner under the stars.

This historic wellness destination continues to enchant visitors of all ages. So pack your swimsuit and sense of adventure, and get ready to create lasting memories in the heart of the Rockies.

Happy soaking and safe travels!

Chanin

Chanin is a seasoned traveler and digital nomad who has lived in various states across America, immersing herself in diverse cultures and experiences. Her passion for exploration and storytelling makes her an expert in uncovering the unique charm of every destination. As a writer for Wavy Destinations, Chanin shares her firsthand knowledge and insights on the best places to visit, hidden gems, and tips for making the most out of every journey.
Her writing not only inspires wanderlust but also offers practical advice for travelers seeking authentic and memorable experiences.