Posted in New Mexico
February 27, 2016
There’s No Better Place To Be Than These 12 Hot Springs In New Mexico
If you want to unwind and forget about your problems, head to one of New Mexico’s hot springs. Whether you pick a developed resort or a pool in the middle of nowhere, you’re sure to leave feeling relaxed and refreshed. Here are 12 great soaking spots in New Mexico.
This resort offers spectacular views of both the Rio Grande and the mountains from its outdoor pools. Riverbend is a great option for anyone who wants to be immersed in nature, without roughing it. Both private and communal pools are available.
The Sierra Grande Lodge has been helping people chill out since 1929. It's actually on the National Register of Historic Places. If you're a hotel guest, you can fill your in-room tub with mineral water. Private tubs like this one are also available.
Reaching this hot springs in the Santa Fe National Forest requires a jaunt along a pretty rough road - you need a four-wheel drive vehicle. Otherwise you can get there by hiking roughly 5 miles. The San Antonio hot springs are rustic and undeveloped. The setting is certainly stunning enough to merit the effort.
Only try this half-mile hike if you're willing to get your feet wet. You need to cross the river multiple times. The water temperature is usually pleasant once the springs and river water combine. Head for the rock-lined pools by the river's edge.
(Don't attempt to visit after heavy rain.)
These hot springs are both free and convenient. As a result they're often busy and sometimes a little rowdy. They're located right off the road, opposite Montezuma Castle.
Ten Thousand Waves is modeled after a Japanese-style spa. Public and private pools offer a serene soaking experience. It's worth noting that, while the water is highly mineralized, its source is a 900-foot deep well rather than a traditional spring. Still, this is one of the best soaking experiences you'll ever have, so definitely add this one to your bucket list.
Fire Water Lodge has a low-key atmosphere, bordering on rustic. Water temperatures here range from 106 - 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
At Ojo Caliente, the public pools are just as good, perhaps even better, than the private ones. There are four different kinds of mineral water available: lithia, iron, soda, and arsenic. Whether you come for the day or stay overnight, your muscles will melt into putty by the end of your visit.
These pools are developed but they retain a primitive feel. There are both public and private soaking areas.
Spence is undeveloped save for the formation of rock pools. It’s in a pretty location that feels further than the quarter-mile it is from the highway. Bear in mind that Spence does have a bit of a reputation as a party spot.
The water at this resort comes from ancient, mineral-rich seawater that got trapped inland. Temperatures at Giggling Springs range from 102 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
With the background sounds of the Jemez River gushing by, it’s easy to kick back in one of the floating chairs and forget about the world for a while.
This rudimentary rock pool along the Rio Grande is surrounded by basalt boulders. The source combines with river water to create a pool with a temperature hovering around 98 degrees Fahrenheit.
What’s your favorite hot spring in New Mexico? Which one do you hope to visit? Let us know in the comments.
