Relax and rejuvenate at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs
Article and photo by Lynn Zahorik
The creekside hot springs at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort are located in Chalk Creek. The hot springs water bubbles out of the ground at 135 degrees Fahrenheit and into the chilly water.
Tucked between the towns of Buena Vista and Salida in Chalk Creek Canyon lies the picturesque resort of Mount Princeton Hot Springs (MPHS). Surrounded by majestic 14,000-foot peaks, this historical but modern retreat in Nathrop is an idyllic place to vacation. The geothermal mineral pools which bubble out of the ground at 135 degrees Fahrenheit are the heartbeat of the resort.
There are numerous ways to enjoy the healing powers of a MPHS soak. There are six pools scattered throughout the property, which are all fed by the odorless natural mineral springs.
Along the Chalk Creek shoreline, 30 hot spots are located right in the midst of the cool rushing waters of the creek. If you are lucky enough to get a spot, guests can create their own private hot springs and control their temperature in the creekside soakings. To the delight of the younger set, a 400-foot water slide was recently added to enjoy in the summer months. The Mount Princeton Historic Bath House that was built in 1867 serves as a gateway to many of the pools and remains open 365 days a year.
Visitors can relax with a one-day hot springs experience or rejuvenate with an overnight stay. A variety of lodging choices are available, including cozy log cabins and cliffside rooms along the creek. There are an abundance of amenities at the resort including bicycles, a full service spa, fitness classes, basketball, shuffleboard, tennis and pickleball.
Outside of the MPHS resort, the adventure possibilities are endless in the Arkansas River Valley.
To learn more about Mount Princeton Hot Springs, visit mtprinceton.com.
