Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is a popular year-round hot springs resort located in Nathrop, Colorado, nestled between the towns of Buena Vista and Salida.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort in Nathrop, CO
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is a full-service resort featuring multiple natural hot springs pools, accommodations, and recreational options. The natural geothermal waters in this area are high in minerals and are naturally heated to temperatures ranging from 70-140°F. The resort offers various pools for relaxation, therapy, and family enjoyment. Additionally, the resort has a spa, dining options, and fitness amenities, making it a popular destination for both day visitors and overnight guests.
Situated in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, the resort is known for its natural hot springs, scenic surroundings, and access to outdoor activities. With various soaking pools, spa services, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort provides a relaxing getaway amid Colorado’s stunning Collegiate Peaks.
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Things to Do
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort?
The resort offers a range of activities, with something for visitors of all ages and interests:
- Hot Springs Pools: The resort has a variety of pools, including the Historic Bath House, which features soaking pools and creekside pools along Chalk Creek, where you can adjust the water temperature by mixing the hot spring water with the cool creek water. The main resort pools are maintained at various temperatures for a customizable soaking experience.
- Spa and Wellness: The resort’s Spa & Club offers massage services, facials, and other spa treatments, as well as a sauna, steam room, and relaxation area.
- Starlight Pool and Infinity Pool: Reserved for guests over 16, the Infinity Pool and Starlight Pool offer breathtaking mountain views and are ideal for quiet relaxation and stargazing.
- Water Slide and Family Pool: Perfect for families, the resort has a 400-foot water slide and a family-friendly pool area, open seasonally.
- Fitness and Yoga Classes: Guests have access to a fitness center and can join yoga classes, both held indoors and outdoors with stunning mountain views.
- Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The resort offers direct access to hiking trails in the surrounding San Isabel National Forest, as well as biking, horseback riding, and fishing nearby.
What is nearby the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort?
The area around Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort offers many outdoor recreational activities and nearby attractions:
- St. Elmo Ghost Town: A short drive from the resort, this well-preserved ghost town gives visitors a glimpse into Colorado’s mining history and is a great spot for photography, hiking, and feeding friendly chipmunks.
- Cottonwood Pass: This scenic mountain pass offers stunning views and access to hiking trails and is especially beautiful during the fall when the aspen trees turn golden.
- Arkansas River: Known for its whitewater rafting and fishing opportunities, the nearby Arkansas River offers guided rafting tours for adventurers of all skill levels.
- Buena Vista: This charming town features shops, restaurants, and art galleries, along with opportunities for outdoor adventures like kayaking and rock climbing.
- Monarch Mountain: Located about 45 minutes away, this ski resort is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter months.
When was the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort built?
The hot springs at Mount Princeton have been used for centuries, initially by Native American tribes who believed in the water’s healing properties. In the 1860s, the area became more developed when European settlers and miners moved in during the Colorado Gold Rush. The resort was officially established in the early 20th century, with the original bathhouse built in 1879. Over the years, the resort expanded to include more soaking pools, a hotel, and modern amenities.
In recent decades, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort has undergone renovations and expansions, becoming a well-known wellness retreat and family-friendly resort. Its unique location along Chalk Creek, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding Collegiate Peaks, has made it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Are the hot springs pools open year-round?
Yes, the hot springs pools are open year-round, including the creekside hot springs. The resort’s different pools maintain comfortable temperatures even in winter, offering a unique soaking experience with snow-covered mountain views.
Do I need a reservation to visit the hot springs?
Reservations are recommended, especially for day passes during weekends and holidays, as the resort can reach capacity. Overnight guests have guaranteed access to the pools as part of their stay.
What types of accommodations are available at the resort?
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of accommodations, including lodge rooms, creekside and hillside cabins, and private homes with full amenities. Some accommodations offer kitchen facilities, making them suitable for longer stays.