Top 5 Hot Springs In New Mexico

Soak in the best hot springs in New Mexico! New Mexico is a hot spot for geothermal activity due to its rich volcanic past. Hot springs are formed when subsurface magma heats the water in the ground which will then rise to the surface. These mineral-rich waters have many health benefits including increasing flexibility and soothing sore muscles as well as improving certain skin conditions. Adding a soak in a hot spring is a must-do activity when visiting New Mexico!

1. Black Rock Hot Springs

Just a short drive from our headquarters is a collection of a few small hot spring pools. These hot springs are right on the edge of the Rio Grande and visible from our Taos Box full day trip. To access these from Taos, park your car after you cross John Dunn Bridge and there are signs for the short hike into the gorge and down to the hot springs. During the spring and early summer months when river levels are higher these pools may be entirely covered. Because these hot springs are located so close by our guides will be the best resources to ask about conditions to soothe those tired muscles after a rafting trip!

2. Ojo Caliente

As one of the country’s oldest health spas, Ojo Caliente has been soothing and nurturing individuals for many years. The pure mineral water is brought directly from the springs into 9 different naturally Sulphur-free soaking pools. This spa also offers a full-service menu from massages to sound healing to help you thoroughly relax during your stay.

3. Jemez Hot Springs

Located outside of Santa Fe and Albuquerque is the town of Jemez Springs which boasts multiple large soaking pools filled with mineral rich waters. This water is rich in calcium, magnesium, lithium, potassium, iron, silica, and several other minerals. Soaking at Jemez Hot Springs and having your skin absorb the therapeutic nutrients results in increased circulation which will calm your nerves, relax your mind, and pull harmful toxins from the body through your skin. The sound of the Jemez Stream nearby will lull you further into relaxation during your soak.

4. San Antonio Hot Springs

Despite the name these hot springs are located outside of Los Alamos in the Santa Fe National Forest. The road to travel to these hot springs can be a little rough so four-wheel drive or hiking is recommended. You will be rewarded with a beautiful secluded natural hot spring deep in the forest. Please check the National Forest Service website for current road and trail conditions and regulations.

5. Montezuma Hot Springs

Outside of Las Vegas, NM are the Montezuma Hot Springs whose healing powers have been utilized for hundreds of years. In the 1800s Montezuma Hot Springs was the site of an active resort and some of the buildings remain. The bubbling active springs are captured with cement pools so everyone can enjoy their benefits. Each pool registers a different temperature with the hottest one registering 120°F. These hot springs are located on private land, but access is free.

Hot Springs Etiquette & Being Prepared

When visiting hot springs – especially natural ones- please refrain from wearing sunscreen, deodorants, lotions, and perfumes on your skin and never use soap while in the spring. Hot springs do not have a place to drain and therefore these products can disrupt the natural balance of the minerals in the waters. Always be respectful of the land you are visiting by carrying out your trash – especially glass bottles- and ensuring the area is cleaner than when you left it.

When visiting more remote hot springs be sure to check the weather and plan accordingly. Be prepared to share because a lot of these hot springs can get busy on weekends and holidays so stay respectful of others enjoying their relaxing moment. We hope you check out some of these amazing natural springs and spas during your time in New Mexico!

A Cold Soak Nearby

For those of you looking for an all-new soaking experience, we here at NMRA believe in the natural health benefits of a cold or cool soak. Did you know that cold soaking enhances your circulation, boosts your immune system, and improves your mental well-being?

Cold soaking is on the rise & the Rio Grande is within your reach. Immerse yourself in the invigorating cool waters of New Mexico’s rivers, where the thrill of whitewater rafting awaits. Cold soak while rafting on the Rio Grande today!