Posted in New Mexico On The Water, Winter January 04, 2022 by

This Primitive Hot Springs Trail In New Mexico Is Everything You Need This Winter

While everyone is skiing and snowboarding this winter, if you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, this easy hike in the Santa Fe National Forest leads to a hot springs to dip in any time of year. Let’s lace up our boots and head out on a stroll down a trail that’s home to unparalleled beauty, and bestows one of the most impressive natural hot springs in New Mexico at the end that’s perfect for some winter relaxation.

McCauley Hot Springs is a natural spring in the midst of the beautiful Santa Fe National Forest.
Robert Neal/AllTrails
At only four miles long, this hike won't take too much out of you while offering incredible views of rock formations and mountains along the way.
Robert Neal/AllTrails
You'll find the trailhead at Battleship Rock Day Use Area, and the entire trail is marked upon the trees so you can't get lost. The out-and-back trail is rated at a moderate difficulty, as the trail to the hot springs is mostly uphill. However, on your walk back, you'll be so relaxed that heading back downhill shouldn't be too strenuous.
Brenda Hua/AllTrails
Once you reach the end, your destination awaits you.
Michael Padilla/AllTrails
Surrounded by the rushing water of nearby streams and falls, you'll find two natural hot springs to dip in. Make sure to bring your swimming gear.
Sybil Caswell/AllTrails
Though the hot springs aren't too big, they can accommodate about six people at a time. Despite being called "hot" springs, the water is comfortably warm and unbelievably clear.
Matt Champlin/AllTrails
This hike is absolutely beautiful, and swimming in the clear blue springs at the end makes for the perfect activity any time of year. If you're feeling a bit cold, the upper pool tends to be a bit warmer.
Matt Spinelli/AllTrails
If you're looking for a unique activity in New Mexico this winter, don't pass up this gorgeous hot springs hike for true relaxation in the midst of the beautiful nature scenery that the Land of Enchantment has to offer.
Michael Salazar/AllTrails
You’ll find the trailhead for McCauley Hot Springs Trail by parking at the Battleship Rock Day Use Area.

Have you ever taken this relaxing hot springs hike before? How was your experience of one of the most impressive hot springs in New Mexico? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share photos from your hiking adventures with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!

For more incredible trails in the Land of Enchantment, you might want to prepare to take on the ultimate waterfall hike bucket list.

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Address: McCauley Spring, New Mexico 87025, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

hot springs in New Mexico

January 09, 2022
Beth C.

What are the best hiking trails in New Mexico?

One of the very best ways to experience the Land of Enchantment is to get out and hike. Fortunately, New Mexico offers some of the best hiking trails in the country, no matter which region you happen to be exploring. From dramatic canyon landscapes to the mountains, dense forests, and rushing rivers, each trail setting offers something spectacular. One of the most challenging parts is simply deciding which trail to tackle first! Fortunately, we've done the work for you to compile a list of our favorite hiking trails in New Mexico. At the top of the list is the Aspen Vista Trail in the Santa Fe National Forest. This is a long trail, measuring 11 miles, but promises to immerse you in a striking wooded terrain that you won't soon forget. If you happen to visit during the fall months, you can look forward to seeing the Aspen leaves transform into hues of yellow and gold. Another remarkable trail can be found within the Gila National Forst. The Catwalk National Recreation Trail is just two miles but will take you above the canyon floor of the iconic Whitewater Canyon. Don't forget to bring your camera! Some other epic trails worth hiking include Cave Creek Trail in the Pecos Wilderness, Crater Rim Trail at Capulin Volcano National Monument, Dripping Springs Trail in Las Cruces, Fourth of July Trail in Cibola National Forest, the Holy Ghost Creek Trail in Santa Fe National Forest, Junction Cave in El Malpais National Monument, Osha Trail in Cloudcroft, Paliza Canyon in Jemez Springs, and finally, Williams Lake Trail in Taos Ski Valley. Curious to learn more about these epic trails? Check out our previous article: Take These 12 Incredible New Mexico Hikes, One For Each Month Of The Year.