Whipple Trail
Hiking & Hot Springs
MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT
Whipple Trail
Length of Hike: 2.6 miles RT
Difficulty Level:Â Moderate
This trail provides grand views of the Collegiate Peaks across the valley to the west. It follows a portion of the old Midland Railroad grade above the Arkansas River. Several kiosks along the trail provide historical information about the area. The trail has about a 600ft elevation gain and the main portion is a 2.6-mile loop. There are several connectors to other trails as well. The Whipple Trail is also a popular spot for mountain biking. It is quite common to see rafts and kayaks in the Arkansas River during the summer months and the fall foliage along the river is an autumn wonderland. This area is brimming with beauty that greatly promotes the “quality of life” of the residents. The trail system is named after Barbara Whipple a local artist who owned an art gallery on Main Street.
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Directions to Whipple Trail
At traffic light, travel east on Main Street to the end, and park in large dirt parking lot. This trail begins at the footbridge over the Arkansas River in the Buena Vista River Park. (15-minute drive time from Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort)
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