has anyone hiked mt Princeton before? (camping, vehicle, radio)

[willc86]

Hi! new to the springs and just taking advantage of one of my favorite sports. I am looking for a beautiful scenic view that is not too difficult for my fiance.

I was hoping if someone had coordinates on where to park? Or are you pretty much free to park anywhere and start hiking anywhere?

[TechMike]

Read this: http://www.14ers.com/routemain.php?r...=mt.+princeton

There is a large parking area at the lower trailhead. If you have a good 4WD vehicle, you can get to the higher trailhead, and there are a few parking spots.

I found it a bit difficult in spots, though I am by no means an experienced 14er climber. I'd say if you two are reasonably fit and are acclimated to higher elevations, you should be fine.

For your first 14er, I'd suggest looking at this page, http://www.14ers.com/routes_2.php, and picking something out of the first group (I like Quandary Peak). That will give you a good idea if your bodies can handle the elvation.

[OutdoorTexan]

We climbed it from the parking area (11,000') just past the radio towers, where there is a little dispersed camping area. Need 4wd to get there. Not really much parking past this point. Lots of parking at the lower parking area, but a MUCH longer hike from there.
The actual trailhead can easily be missed as you walk up the 4wd road-- helps to have GPS and note elevation as you look for unmarked trailhead. Also note there is a 'new' route (the standard route on 14ers.com) and the old route. They separate mid-hike. Do NOT miss the turn (cairns are there) to catch the new, easier route which is a trail up switchbacks to a ridge ("....Near 12,800', reach a small rock wall - Photo #11....." as described on 14ers.com). Also, be off mountain by noon, or at least back down to treeline. Thunderstorms came early and sudden for us (June 28th). That day, 16 people got hit by lightning on Mt. Bierstadt. Bad situation to be in.

Awesome views!! Enjoy.