There is something magical about bathing in a natural hot spring, and New Mexico hot springs are no exception. Here are some of the best places to soak. Listed below are Jordan Hot Springs, Jemez Springs Bath House, and Ojo Caliente. Read on to see how to make the most of your spa day in New Mexico! And don’t forget to visit the Ojo Caliente hot spring in Taos!
Jordan Hot Springs
We were backpacked in the foothills of the Andes Mountains when we found the Jordan Hot Springs in New Mexico. This is the first hot spring we have ever visited. The water is crystal clear and covered with small pebbles. While it isn’t steaming hot, the water is still around 90 degrees. Nevertheless, the water is filled with bacteria that can cause meningitis. Hence, you should be very careful when you’re diving into the water.
For those interested in hiking in the Gila Wilderness, Jordan Hot Springs can be reached by taking the Little Bear Canyon Trail. The springs can be quite warm – some visitors have reported a temperature of over 100 degrees! However, this place is not regulated, and it is important to check with local authorities before going in. It is also possible that the hot water contains harmful organisms. That’s why we highly recommend wearing appropriate clothing and taking along a towel.
The trail to Jordan Hot Springs is about 13 miles roundtrip. This route is moderate and requires approximately 27 river crossings. During your trip, you should plan to camp in one of the many natural campsites that are available. Just remember to follow Leave-Trail practices when leaving the trail and follow the rules of nature and the wilderness. You will be glad you did! If you go hiking in the wilderness, don’t forget to carry enough water, sunscreen, and other essential items.
Another hot spring in Jordan is Jemez Springs, a short drive from Santa Fe. This is a moderately strenuous 2-mile hike, but it offers several beautiful sand-bottom pools. The temperature here is between 85-90 degrees. You can also visit the nearby Clearwater National Forest to take part in some zen meditation. However, the best way to experience the warm waters is by hiring a guide.
Taos Pueblo Tribal Hot Springs
In 2009, the Puebo people of Taos, New Mexico, agreed to sign a conservation easement limiting development and maintaining public access. The Puebo tribe acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining public access while protecting the land. As a result, the Pueblo provides day-use access to the hot springs for visitors, but there are rules that must be followed. One of these is that no cameras are allowed during religious ceremonies.
Despite being located in northern New Mexico, Taos Pueblo is one of the state’s 19 pueblos. It is the state’s oldest continuously inhabited community and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1965. In 1992, the World Heritage Society recognized it as a significant cultural landmark. The ruins of another Pueblo to the east of Taos, Cornfield Taos, were founded around 900 A.D. It is sacred and ancestral.
The Taos Pueblo Tribal Hot Spring is easily accessible, but you must be prepared to hike at least a mile and a half. The site is comprised of three hot spring pools, each of which has its own temperature. The temperature ranges from 80 to 95 degrees depending on the season. Visitors must be respectful of the culture and keep litter free. Nevertheless, if you are a native American, you should not miss this opportunity to soak in the warm waters of this site.
Located in Northern New Mexico, Taos is a stunning destination. The city offers cultural and historic attractions as well as a scenic drive through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. While in Taos, you’ll also find numerous museums, including the Kit Carson Home and Museum. And don’t forget the Taos Pueblo, a National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is considered sacred by the tribes.
Ojo Caliente
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs is a hot springs resort located just north of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It produces a massive 100,000 gallons of hot water daily. Guests have the option to soak in one of the public or private pools. For New Mexican residents, it’s a great day trip. This resort offers luxurious spa treatments with the backdrop of the state’s breathtaking natural beauty.
There is a Santa Fe branch of Ojo Caliente that offers more amenities than the Taos location. For instance, the Ojo Caliente thermal pools are free for guests who stay overnight. The general public can purchase a day pass for $55, but guests can also rent a private tub for $75 for a couple. Individuals can also hire a private one-person tub for $55 per hour.
The resort offers day and overnight stays in comfortable rooms, and has four different mineral pools. The water contains different minerals, including lithia, iron, soda, and arsenic, which are beneficial for people suffering from arthritis, as well as those with blood disorders and digestive problems. There are also spa treatments and massages available at Ojo Caliente, including aromatherapy and skincare treatments. It is recommended that you book your stay here ahead of time to make sure you’ll get the most out of your trip.
The Ojo Caliente Hot Springs in New Mexican are free to enter and you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the northern mountains. If you plan on taking a dip, be prepared to hike a half-mile through the Santa Fe National Forest to reach the location. The steep hillside offers 15 thermal springs. If you’re traveling alone, you might consider a tour of the complex.
Jemez Springs Bath House
The Jemez Springs Bath House in New Mexico offers natural healing waters, mineral soaks, and therapeutic massages. The bath house features eight over-sized cement bath tubs with 100% mineral water. Each tub has a mixture of hot and cold water for the ultimate bathing experience. It is completely private and clothing is optional. There is no charge for the mineral baths, but you may bring your own water to drink during your stay. Guests may bring their own towels. There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Children under 14 are not permitted to use the bathhouse’s facilities.
The Jemez Springs Bath House is located 60 miles north of Albuquerque. The spa is operated by a non-profit organization and is open daily, except for Wednesdays when it is closed for maintenance. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water for the baths, and reservations are highly recommended for busy weekends. However, walk-ins are welcome. You can enjoy the hot springs, relax in a private tub, and enjoy the spa facilities.
If you’re looking for a gift after your visit to the spa, don’t miss the gift shop located in the lobby. You’ll find bath and beauty products, postcards, and local souvenirs. The gift shop even has information about the various points of interest in the area. The Village of Jemez Springs owns the Bath House, so you can buy souvenirs and gifts from there. While you’re there, take some time to visit the Jemez Historic Site, and you’ll be glad you did.
The Bath House is owned by the Village of Jemez Springs and has had a 20 percent increase in customers since May-June of 2018. It has recently refurbished its appearance, and even hosted a Spring Renewal Fair in June. It is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend. The Jemez Springs Bath House in New Mexico is the perfect getaway for any vacation in the southwest. Its historic appearance and great food have helped the Bath House become a destination in the area.
Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa & Resort
The Japanese-inspired spa and resort at Ten Thousand Waves is located just 15 minutes from downtown Santa Fe. Ten Thousand Waves is famous for its natural hot springs baths and Japanese Shiatsu massages. Its location in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains makes it a popular getaway spot, and guests can enjoy dozens of hiking trails and museums within walking distance. You’ll be transported into a zen-like environment as you relax and enjoy the soothing spa treatments.
Ten Thousand Waves isn’t your typical spa hotel. Children are welcome, and pets are permitted in certain guest rooms. It offers day spa and destination spa services, as well as private soaking tubs. The Japanese-style spa has both communal and private soaking tubs, and guests are allowed to keep their clothes in them. There are also showers and lockers located throughout the resort, as well as a relaxation room.
Located in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Ten Thousand Waves is accessible by car, but you’ll need to plan your travel accordingly. Parking at the spa is free and there’s a shuttle available to and from the spa. The spa has a complimentary shuttle service to and from the Plaza. Guests can also take advantage of the town’s free self-parking and shuttle service.
While Ten Thousand Waves doesn’t have an outdoor pool, the hotel has a heated indoor swimming pool. The resort also offers a pool, and a hot tub modeled after a Japanese onsen. The spa has seven private baths for guests. It also has two saunas and a hot tub. The public hot tubs have large sun decks and are accessible by day passes. The hotel also offers delicious Japanese meals, such as sushi and noodles.
