Mount Princeton

Recommended Route Mount Princeton Road Route—use of this route will help to reduce impacts to this Fourteener’s fragile alpine environment. For detailed route information including pictures, maps, and elevation profiles, click here.

Route Information and Additional Resources Drive south of Buena Vista, CO. for eight miles to Colorado 162, and go west. You will pass the Mount Princeton Hot Springs at four miles. From the Mount Princeton Hot Springs take County Road (CR) 321 north for approximately 1 mile to CR 322. Turn west and follow CR 322 for 1 mile. Passenger cars will want to park at this location. Continue on the Forest Development Road (FDR) past the Young Life Camp for 3 miles to the trailhead. The trailhead has very limited parking and is located on a steep, narrow four-wheel drive road. Due to the nature of the road and limited parking at the trailhead, it may be advisable for hikers with passenger cars to park near the Young Life Camp. Some parking is available about 1 mile before you reach the trailhead location. The Mount Princeton Road is the route to above tree line. Limited parking for high clearance vehicles is located near several radio towers at approximately 11,000 feet. Continue hiking along the road until it takes a distinct turn to the south and starts across the south face of Princeton. A trail spur cuts to the right (west) toward a mine. Do not take it, but stay near the ridge. This spur will eventually bring you to Princeton’s East Ridge. The trail near the summit is somewhat difficult to find, so pay attention.

The above information does not replace the need to consult additional maps and Colorado Fourteener Guidebooks for more detailed route descriptions. We suggest checking multiple resources before departing on any hike. Keep in mind that not all guidebooks list this recommended route and that each guidebook’s description or route name may vary slightly.

Peak Specific Environmental and Safety Concerns This area subject to Wilderness Area regulations: Group size limit is 15. No camping or campfires within 100 feet of trail or streams. Dogs must be leashed at all times. No motorized or mechanical equipment. Stay on the trail to avoid damage to this popular Fourteener.