Hancock Pass Trail
Hiking & Hot Springs
MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT
Hancock Pass Trail
Length of Hike: 9.3 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The trail climbs up and over the Continental Divide, connecting East and West Alpine Tunnel Trails. Hancock Road and Alpine Tunnel Road were built along the original railroad bed that passed through the Alpine Tunnel in the 1880’s. At the historic site of Hancock, you will find a restored depot at the Alpine Tunnel which is on the way to Hancock Pass (12,140 ft. in elevation). A side trip to Hancock Lake won’t disappoint – this lake produces 18-20-inch Cutthroat Trout.
This lake was the highlight trip of the first annual 14erfest High Lake Adventure in 2017, Buena Vista.
Directions to Hancock Pass Trail
This trail is 11.5 miles west of Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort on CR 162. Turn left on US Forest Service Road 295. Drive 5 miles to the ghost town of Hancock.
10 Hiking Essentials
- Water (1.5 Liters per person per 5-6 hours)
- Snacks (Beef Jerky, nuts, power bar)
- Navigation (map and compass and/or GPS)
- Sunscreen
- Extra clothing (hat, socks, gloves)
- First aid supplies
- Light (headlamp or flashlight)
- Fire starter and matches/lighter
- CD Rom or mirror, whistle, mosquito repellant
- Emergency shelter (Biffy Bag)
LOCAL HIKES.
12 popular trailheads in the Nathrop area with hikes for all abilities and age levels. Surrounding areas have additional options for exploring our beautiful valley.
Activities & Things To Do
BUENA VISTA & SALIDA
COLORADO
This activity is an extreme test of a person’s physical and mental limits and carries with it the potential for death, serious injury and property loss. The risks include, but are not limited to: actions of other people including, but not limited to, participants; lack of hydration, weather, and/or other natural conditions. Princeton Holdings, LLC DBA Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort is not liable for any injury, property loss, damage, death, etc occurring do to any activity outlined by any information sheet. Guest is participating in any activity on their own merit with no liability to the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort or its agents.
Surrounding Towns
Buena Vista, Colorado
Buena Vista, Colorado is just 9 miles from Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. This unique mountain town is located on the Arkansas River. There are many shopping opportunities along with restaurants, a brewery and a distillery. LEARN MORE
Salida, Colorado
Salida, Colorado is 21 miles from the resort. This is Colorado's largest National Historic District. Dine on the banks of the Arkansas River and explore the many art galleries in this historic downtown. This area was named Colorado's first Creative Arts District. LEARN MORE