Camp in Nathrop and Hike Mt. Princeton (14,197 ft.)

Nathrop, Colorado

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Details

Distance

10.5 miles

Elevation Gain

3500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sofia Davis-Kos

Mt. Princeton stands out on the drive west from Denver, but that's not just because it's tall. Princeton is one of the only 14ers in the area not surrounded on all sides. This allows for breathtaking views of the 10-mile range to the east and the Collegiates to the west!

Head toward Nathrop, CO on U.S. High 295. Turn east between mile markers 144 and 145 onto Chaffee County Road 301. Take the road until the pavement runs out and turn right onto Chaffee County Road 300. Drive a couple miles on the road and through the Ruby Mountain campgrounds (paid lots only) until you see a wooden fence and a big sign indicating the Browns Canyon Wilderness Study Area. Turn left and head up the bumpy dirt road and you'll begin to see campsites all over! The farther up the road you go, the better your view! For more info on directions visit: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo...

Set your alarms for 4AM the next day. When you wake up quickly pack and get on the road toward the Mt. Princeton Trailhead. When you arrive at the lower parking lot, next to the Young Life camp, don't park continue up the road marked Mt. Princeton. BEWARE: the road is really rough, you'll want an experienced driver and a 4WD vehicle. When you reach the upper campground, park your car and start hikin! You should summit the mountain by 10, 11 at the latest.

After a full day of hiking check out Buena Vista for a delicious aprés-14er lunch! I recommend the "Mountain Man Sandwich" at Jans.

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Features

Camping

Hiking

Romantic

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

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