Description: Mt. Princeton Hot Springs
Located just down the hill from the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort, the geothermal hot springs pool is another inexpensive way to soak off the dirt from hiking, warm up some after a day of
rafting, or just to entertain the kids while you relax on the other end. If you're camping like we were, it's a great spot to catch a good soak and a much-needed shower. There's a restaurant in the hotel too, which offers fair, somewhat over-priced steaks and standard American fare.
If you decide to stay in the resort you have access to some great trails, mountain horseback rides through their
riding stables, and they also rent mountain bikes. Mt. Princeton is part of the Collegiate Peaks, the altitude places it in among the famed fourteeners at 14,197 feet.
They have three pools available, which one you choose depends on what temperature you're going for & also the season. The only one I've ever tried was the soaking pool
(100°-105°). There's also an Olympic-size lap pool
(88°-92°) & a cold pool with a waterslide (the waterslide is only open Memorial Day to Labor Day).
As far as what to expect, well, it's basically a geothermal swimming pool with both a shallow and deep end, bathing suits are mandatory (this isn't the case at all hot springs), the water is warm and feels great on a chilly evening, there are people of all ages, and a real bare bones locker room set-up. They request that you shower before entering the pool, don't bother trying to adjust the water temperature with the "cold" faucet, I'm pretty sure it's just for show. For the money, it's a great way to relax, enjoy an amazing view of the Chalk Cliffs and surrounding peaks, and get squeaky clean in the process.
Pool Prices:
Adults 13-61...$6.00
Children.......$3.00
Seniors 62+....$3.00
Winter Hours: Daily 9:00am to 9:00pm
Directions (see map): To get to Mt. Princeton from Salida, take Hwy. 291 out of town towards Hwy. 285. Head North on Hwy. 285 towards Buena Vista. Once you reach Nathrop, continue on ¼ mile until you see the Mt. Princeton & St. Elmo sign. This is County Road 162, turn left here. The hotel and hot springs are about 4 miles up on the left-hand side.
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