Quick Info
Location: Near Buena Vista, about 2.5 hours from Denver via US-285. What makes it special: Views of 14,197-foot Mt. Princeton, creek-side natural pools, historic resort. Pool temps: 95-105°F.
Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort sits at the base of its namesake fourteener in Colorado's Collegiate Peaks region. The views alone justify the visit - 14,197-foot Mt. Princeton towers directly above the pools, its snow-covered slopes visible as you soak. Few hot springs anywhere offer such dramatic mountain scenery.
The resort has operated since the late 1800s, though facilities have been thoroughly modernized. Today it offers a mix of experiences: large infinity pools with mountain views, a historic bathhouse, and natural creek-side pools where hot springs water mixes with the cold creek.
The location in the Arkansas River valley makes it accessible while still feeling remote. About 2.5 hours from Denver via US-285, it's a reasonable day trip or part of a longer Buena Vista area adventure.
Soaking Options
The infinity pools are the signature experience. Multiple pools at different temperatures face Mt. Princeton, with infinity edges that seem to drop off into the mountain views. Water ranges from 95-105°F. These are the most popular pools and have the best views.
Creekside pools offer something more rustic. Natural rock pools sit where hot springs meet cold Chalk Creek. You can mix temperatures yourself by moving around. More wild, less polished - seasonal availability depending on creek conditions.
The historic bathhouse preserves the original indoor pools with character from the resort's early days. Different vibe from the modern outdoor pools - worth experiencing for the history.
Planning Your Visit
Day passes are available for the pools - you don't need to stay at the resort. Reservations recommended on weekends. Different pricing for different pool areas, so check the website.
Overnight stays are worth considering. The lodge has rooms, and there are cabins available. Guests get extended pool access - soaking before the day crowd arrives is magical. Wake up with mountain views, walk to the pools in a robe.
A spa offers massage and treatments if you want to add that dimension to your visit.
Climb and Soak
The Mt. Princeton trailhead is nearby. Many visitors summit the fourteener then return to soak. It's the ultimate Colorado day - peak bag a 14er, then let your muscles recover in hot mineral water. Popular with peak baggers who want more than just another mountain.
The surrounding Buena Vista area offers rafting on the Arkansas River, multiple fourteeners, mountain biking, and a charming downtown. Mt. Princeton makes a great base for a full mountain vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit without staying at the resort?
Yes, day passes are available. You don't need to be a hotel guest to use the pools.
Which pools have the best views?
The infinity pools facing Mt. Princeton. The mountain dominates the view - it's spectacular.
Are the creek-side pools always open?
They're seasonal and depend on creek conditions. Available in summer and early fall typically, less reliably in winter.
How hard is it to climb Mt. Princeton?
It's a Class 2 fourteener - challenging but non-technical. About 8 miles round trip with 3,000+ feet of elevation gain. Start early, be prepared.