The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico
Thanks to geothermal activity in the region, New Mexico is a hot spot for hot springs of all sorts. Many of these hot springs can be accessed in their natural state, pools of warm, soothing water surrounded by the natural beauty of New Mexico. Other cultivated hot springs are often part of resorts and spas, and a long soak can be bundled up with hotel stays, massages, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a hike before relaxing in a hot spring, or just want to unwind in one of New Mexico’s many hot spring spas, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Where to Soak in the Land of Enchantment
Natural hot springs: San Antonio hot springs, Spence hot springs, Montezuma hot springs
Cultivated hot springs: Ojo Caliente, Jemez Springs, Truth or Consequences
Natural Hot Springs in New Mexico
1. San Antonio Hot Springs
San Antonio hot springs is one of the most popular hot springs in the state for a reason. Located a short drive from the town of Jemez Springs, the spring consists of three different pools situated on a picturesque mountainside with hot, crystal clear water. How long the hike to the springs is depends on the time of year - in summer, vehicles with four-wheel drive and high clearance can navigate down an unpaved road before parking and hiking up another mile to the springs. In winter, the road is closed to vehicles, and visitors must hike about six miles before reaching the springs. Luckily, it’s a beautiful hike through stunning New Mexico scenery. While the trail itself is mostly flat before the final mile-long ascent, hikers should be sure to account for elevation and pace themselves.
2. Spence Hot Springs
Spence hot springs is another great pick only a short drive from Santa Fe. This spring is a bit smaller than San Antonio hot springs, and it’s also closer to the road - both of which make it more crowded. For a chance of getting the pools all to yourself, try to go earlier or later in the day. It’s a beautiful place to soak during sunrise, and it only a short quarter-mile hike from the parking area.
3. Montezuma Hot Springs
Montezuma hot springs are located near Las Vegas, New Mexico, about an hour’s drive from downtown Santa Fe. These pools used to be part of the Montezuma Hotel, but are now free and open to the public after the hotel closed decades ago. Nearby buildings now house the administrative buildings of United World College - USA. The springs are a short walk from the parking area, and are a great destination for families who may not be up for a longer hike. Be sure to bring a bathing suit, as skinny dipping isn’t allowed at these pools.
Cultivated Hot Springs in New Mexico
1. Ojo Caliente
Ojo Caliente is a hot spring, restaurant, and spa located about 45 minutes north of Santa Fe. Guests can purchase a day pass to soak in the many pools on offer. Different pools feature different beneficial minerals, including lithia, iron, soda, and arsenic. After you soak, you can book a room to stay the night. If you’re looking to splurge, some rooms even come with their own private outdoor pools, which offer beautiful night-time views of the starry skies. Ojo also offers a variety of spa services, including massages, skincare, and more.
Enjoying a blue skies winter day at the riverside Jemez Hot Springs
2. Jemez Springs
Located in between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, Jemez Springs is a quirky town with a variety of cultivated hot springs on offer. Popular destinations include Jemez Hot Springs (formerly Giggling Springs) and Jemez Springs Bath House. There are also a variety of other spas and restaurants in the area. The town is about an hour and a half from both Albuquerque and Santa Fe, making it a great day trip if you’re looking to explore northern New Mexico. Between the two, our favorite is Jemez Hot Springs given its beautiful riverside location and outdoor pools (pictured, right). If you go, be sure to order a hot chocolate to enjoy while you soak!
3. Truth or Consequences
If you’re up for a road trip, the southern New Mexico town of Truth or Consequences is a great place to soak and relax. Truth or Consequences includes 10 different commercial springs and spas throughout the town. There are also an eclectic selection of restaurants, breweries and more to explore. We particularly recommend Riverbend Hot Springs, which is situated along the banks of the Rio Grande. For more freshwater fun, be sure to also check out nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
What to Bring
What you’ll need to bring with you for the perfect soak will vary depending on whether you choose to visit a natural hot spring or a hot spring inside a spa or resort.
For a hike to a natural hot spring, you should be sure to bring:
A comfortable bathing suit - Whether you wear a bathing suit under your clothes or change when you get there, you should bring a comfortable bathing suit. While some people do skinny dip in natural hot springs, it’s always good to have options!
Snacks and drinks - Depending on which spring you go to, you may have a long hike ahead of you before you soak. Be sure to bring snacks and plenty of water to refuel with, and be sure to pack out any trash!
Sunscreen and a hat - At over 7,000 feet elevation and with over 300 sunny days a year, the New Mexico sun is no joke. Sunscreen and a hat can help prevent you from getting sunburned on your hike.
For a trip to a cultivated hot spring and spa, you should bring:
A comfortable bathing suit - While some spas allow you to rent a bathing suit for a fee, it’s usually a good idea to save yourself the hassle and bring your own.
Comfortable sandals - Especially when jumping from pool to pool, a good pair of waterproof sandals or flip flops comes in handy to protect your feet and prevent slips.
A change of clothes - If you plan to get other spa treatments or enjoy a meal before or after your soak, it’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes.
No matter what hot spring you choose to visit, you’ll be able to relax in the hot water and soak up all the beauty that New Mexico has to offer!
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