The Gorgeous 3.4-Mile Hike In New Mexico's Santa Fe National Forest That Will Lead You Past A River And Hot Spring
By Monica Spencer|Published February 10, 2021
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Beautiful forest views? Check. A chilly, flowing river? Check. A picturesque thermal spring? Also check. The trek from the Battleship Rock picnic site to the idyllic McCauley Hot Springs in northern New Mexico has a little bit of everything combined into one gorgeous hike.
Tucked away in the Santa Fe National Forest, McCauley Hot Springs is a well-known hiking destination just around the corner from Jemez Springs.
Keep in mind that this trail is considered moderately difficult, since the first half is an uphill climb and some areas are a bit rocky. However, dipping your feet into the hot spring at the end is worth the workout.
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Your journey begins at the trailhead, located just past the picnic area, and heads southeast along a well-trodden path.
The thermal pools are more likely to be considered warm springs since they only reach a temperature of 99 degrees. Smaller pools that feed off the main one cool down to 85 degrees for a more tepid soak.
After a couple hours of hiking, sitting here to soak while enjoying the forest scenery is one of the best possible ways to spend a few hours of your day.
The trail is rated moderately difficult and may take around three hours to complete. Details about the trail and area can be found at AllTrails or the Forest Service website. While hiking, don’t forget to follow basic hiking etiquette and leave no trace.
