Story by Nicole

The Mt. Princeton Hot Springs are nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, near the virtually invisible town of Nathrop. I’ve been here several times; the warm water and stunning views do not disappoint.

(Photo/Nicole Harrison)

It is somewhat of a balancing act, deciding when to come. In the summer, the mid-70s weather makes the 90-105 degree water somewhat unappealing. In the winter, the water feels amazing, but the stinging wind and snow can make you wish for goggles and a snorkel. 

This visit was the second annual trip to the hot springs with Tom. Kayla was the fourth person rounding out our group. When we arrived on Friday night, light snow accompanied us. As we soaked, it became increasingly wet and heavy, making our towels into nothing more than cold, wet, somewhat stiff wind blocks. Snow definitely makes soaking in hot water more interesting, between the stinging sensations when one’s body is out of the water and the fascinating dissipation of snowflakes into the pool.

Overnight, the wind came up, and the morning it was clear enough to see the snow-covered peaks. We soaked until the wind chased us away, then headed home to Denver.