Quick Facts
Distance from Denver: 135 miles (2.5 hrs). Temperature: 95-140°F. Day Pass: $25-30. Best For: Families & Couples.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is the gold standard for Colorado hot springs. Located in the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista, this resort combines natural geothermal waters with stunning 14er mountain views - specifically Mount Princeton towering at 14,197 feet directly above you.
What makes Mount Princeton special: you can soak in natural creek-side pools where hot spring water mixes with cold creek water, creating your perfect temperature. Dig into the gravel to adjust the heat, find your spot, and stare up at one of Colorado's most beautiful peaks.
The Pools at Mount Princeton
Upper Pools
Temperature: 95-105°F. Three large pools with mountain views. Infinity-edge design overlooking Chalk Creek. Most popular for soaking.
Main Pool & Waterslide
Temperature: 85-95°F. Large swimming pool with 400-foot waterslide. Great for families with kids who need more activity.
Chalk Creek Pools
Temperature: Varies. Natural creek-side soaking. Hot springs bubble up through the creek bed - dig into the gravel to find hot spots.
Historic Bath House
Temperature: 100-104°F. Private soaking rooms available by reservation. Intimate setting for couples or solo relaxation.
Local Secret: The creek-side pools are the real experience here. Walk down to Chalk Creek, find a spot where you see steam rising, and start digging. The hot spring water bubbles up from below and mixes with the cold creek water. It's completely natural and free with your day pass.
Getting to Mount Princeton
Address: 15870 County Road 162, Nathrop, CO 81236
From Denver, take US-285 South through the mountains (beautiful drive through Kenosha Pass). Continue past Buena Vista, then turn right onto County Road 162. The resort is about 5 miles up the road.
Winter Access: County Road 162 is paved but can be icy in winter. The resort is open year-round, and winter soaking with snow falling is incredible - just drive carefully on the approach road.
Prices & Hours (2026)
- Hours: 9 AM - 10 PM daily (pools close at 10 PM)
- Day Pass (Mon-Thu): $25 adults, $15 children (3-12)
- Day Pass (Fri-Sun): $30 adults, $18 children
- Private Bath House: Starting at $40/hour
- Lodging: Rooms from $189/night, cabins from $259/night
Save Money: Visit Monday-Thursday for lower day pass rates. Staying overnight? Your day pass is included with your room, and you get access from 8 AM until checkout plus all evening.
Phone: (719) 395-6447
Website: mtprinceton.com
Staying Overnight
Mount Princeton offers several lodging options on-site:
- Lodge Rooms: Standard hotel-style rooms with pool access
- Cliffside Rooms: Premium rooms with private balconies overlooking the creek
- Cabins: Full kitchen, fireplace, perfect for groups or extended stays
- Creekside Cabins: Located right along Chalk Creek with private hot spring access
Overnight guests get extended pool hours and typically beat the day-tripper crowds in the morning. The on-site restaurant is decent for resort food, but Buena Vista (15 min away) has better dining options.
Insider Tips
- Go to the creek first. Most day visitors stay at the main pools. The creek experience is what makes this place special.
- Bring water shoes. The creek bed is rocky. You'll want something on your feet.
- Arrive early on weekends. The resort limits capacity - by noon on summer Saturdays, there can be a wait.
- Winter is magical. Fewer crowds, steam rising off the pools, snow-covered peaks. Best time to visit.
- Make it a weekend. At 2.5 hours from Denver, this is better as an overnight trip. Explore Buena Vista, raft the Arkansas, hike a 14er.
- Sunset at the upper pools. Alpenglow on Mount Princeton while you're soaking - unforgettable.
What Else to Do Nearby
- Buena Vista: Charming mountain town with breweries, restaurants, and shops (15 min)
- Arkansas River Rafting: World-class whitewater - book a morning trip, hot springs after
- 14er Hikes: Mount Princeton, Mount Yale, and Mount Antero are all nearby
- Cottonwood Hot Springs: Rustic alternative just up the road (more hippie vibe)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mount Princeton Hot Springs worth the drive from Denver?
Absolutely. The 2.5-hour drive is scenic, and the experience is leagues beyond anything closer to Denver. This is Colorado hot springs done right.
Can kids go to Mount Princeton Hot Springs?
Yes, this is one of the most family-friendly hot springs in Colorado. The waterslide and main pool give kids something active to do, while parents relax in the hotter pools.
Do I need reservations for Mount Princeton?
Day passes don't require reservations on weekdays. Weekend reservations are recommended during summer months. Lodging always requires advance booking.
What's the difference between Mount Princeton and Cottonwood Hot Springs?
Mount Princeton is a full resort with amenities, waterslide, restaurant, and lodging. Cottonwood (nearby) is rustic, clothing-optional, and more of a hippie/spiritual vibe. Both are great, just different experiences.
Are the creek pools free?
The creek pools are included with your day pass or lodging. You can't access them without paying admission to the resort.