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NatureHiking

Take This Difficult 10.9-Mile Hike To Beautiful And Remote Hot Springs In New Mexico

Turkey Creek Hot Springs Trail in New Mexico offers a challenging hike leading to beautiful, remote hot springs.

Updated Jan 16, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Some hikes in the Land of Enchantment are short and sweet. However, others are strenuous and challenging, but the final destination is worth every obstacle. The Turkey Creek Hot Springs in the Gila Wilderness is one of those challenging trails but once you reach your final destination — a gorgeous remote hot spring in New Mexico — you’ll be so grateful you took that first step. Have we piqued your interest? If so, continue reading all about this magical hot springs trail in New Mexico that you'll want to visit time and time again.

The Turkey Creek Hot Springs Trail is a 10.9-mile out-and-back hike.

A large rock with graffiti marking "Turkey Creek" surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.
larry waltzer/AllTrails

This trail is not for beginner hikers. It is not only long but there are several areas of this trail that are rough and rocky. The trail is not regularly maintained so you will want to come prepared with adequate hiking shoes, food, and water.

A serene landscape featuring a small stream surrounded by lush greenery and mountains under a clear blue sky.
David Baake/AllTrails

It is wise to bring water shoes and extra clothing with you on this difficult hike in New Mexico. You will encounter water crossings on your journey.

A person wades through a river, carrying heavy bags on their back, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
Malcom Reese/AllTrails

As you hike, don’t focus entirely on the final destination. Rather, enjoy the journey. There are some beautiful areas you will explore along this trail.

A serene riverbank lined with pebbles, surrounded by lush trees and mountains under a cloudy sky.
Carrie Wilbur/AllTrails

Once you reach the end of the trail, you will come to the gorgeous Turkey Creek Hot Springs.

A serene rocky landscape featuring a small waterfall flowing into a clear pool surrounded by greenery.
Malcom Reese/AllTrails

Give yourself plenty of time to sit back and relax in these hot springs in New Mexico. There are several pools for you to enjoy. Just make sure to check the temperature of the water before you hop in. Some pools can become extremely hot.

A serene river flows between large rocks, surrounded by trees and autumn foliage.
Alan Gluth/AllTrails

Not too many hikers are brave enough to make the challenging climb so the hot springs are often quiet and the perfect place to relax.

A serene stream flows over smooth rocks, surrounded by lush greenery and reflected in the clear water.
Carrie Wilbur/AllTrails

Curious to see these relaxing hot springs in action? Check out the brief YouTube video below -- we bet you'll be planning your hot spring hike in no time!

Have you ever hiked to Turkey Creek Hot Springs in New Mexico? What was your experience like? Feel free to tell us all about your adventures in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! For more information about this trail, be sure to check out the official AllTrails listing for Turkey Creek Hot Springs.

Need a place to stay while exploring all that this beautiful area has to offer? Check out this list of unique vacation rentals near Silver City, NM.

If you love to relax in hot springs in the Land of Enchantment, check out our list of the 12 best hot springs in New Mexico that you’ll want to visit.

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