Hot Springs Near Taos, New Mexico
Located a little north of the Rio Grande River, there are a few amazing natural hot springs near Taos for you to enjoy. Roughly a 30 minute drive through scenic landscape to two of the more primitive locations, once you arrive at the springs the real journey begins. Both natural springs do require a bit of hiking and some technical areas to navigate so good shoes and a map are key to getting to your final destination. If the adventure isn’t your style, the third option is more resort like and doesn’t take any effort to relax in New Mexico’s healing waters.
Map of Taos Hot Springs
Black Rock Hot Springs – Near Taos
Distance from Taos NM – 13 Miles
Driving time from Taos NM – 25 Minutes
Address: Arroyo Hondo, NM, 87529
Cost: Free
Open: All Year
Clothing: Optional
Black Rock Hot Springs is a short drive away from Taos and has two separate pools for you to enjoy. This primitive area is fairly challenging to get to so we definitely recommend bringing a flashlight, map, and hiking gear. Once you reach your destination marked out by black rocks along the trail, you will be swept away in time as you soak in temperatures ranging from 97 – 101 degrees overlooking the Rio Grande river. The temperatures can fluctuate depending on the level of the Rio Grande so we also suggest you test the water before plunging in.
Each pool is created with rock walls to allow the water to flow in and cool the hot springs. Due to it’s popularity with both locals from Taos and tourists from around the world, it’s recommended you arrive early in order to claim your rightful spot in either section. There aren’t any amenities located at Black Rock hot springs so bring food or snacks along with your bathing suit (if you want) and a towel. Because it’s clothing optional you may also want to leave the kids at home as you are bound to see someone taking advantage of natural waters completely nude.
If you are visiting Taos, be sure to put this hot springs on your bucket list of places to visit!
Directions to Black Rock Hot Springs
1. From Taos use highway 522 north for 5.3 miles.
2. Go west on county rode b007 for 2.5 miles before veering right
3. Continue on the road and cross two bridges (first is a one way bridge and the second is John Dunn Bridge)
4. After the second bridge make a left and start the uphill trek
5. Park at the first switch back you see (most likely you will see other cars there)
6. Make the .3 mile hike down to the springs.
Manby Hot Springs – Near Taos
Distance from Taos NM – 13 Miles
Driving time from Taos NM – 30 Minutes
Address: Arroyo Hondo, NM, 87529
Cost: Free
Open: All Year
Clothing: Optional
Another amazing hot springs near Taos, NM is Manby (also known as Stagecoach as it’s within the ruins of a stagecoach stop from long ago). This primitive natural body of water is actually located on private land so once must get to it from the Rio Grande river. Don’t worry though as it isn’t as difficult as it sounds. You can either make the journey by boat, use the hiking trails that start at John Dunn Bridge (about 3 miles from where you park), or drive to a designated area and hike about 1 mile to the final destination.
The area itself is comprised of several small warmer pools located a the bottom of the gorge ranging in temperatures of about 97 degrees. It offers some of the most scenic views as you enjoy a soak after a long day of activities or for those who just want the healing benefits. The different springs themselves can host up to six people at any given time and with it being clothing option we recommend you choose wisely. You will almost for sure see several nudists there so we consider this attraction adults only.
Due to Manby Hot Springs being a little farther away than Black Rock, it will be a little less crowded and on certain weekdays you might find yourself being the only one there. However, during peak season there may be crowds from tourists visiting Taos so come prepared with things such as a book or music to pass the time if you need to wait a bit. Also because the hot springs is very primitive you will need to bring your own food, towel, bathing suit, sunscreen, and water.
Directions to Manby Hot Springs
1. From Taos use highway 522 north for 5.3 miles.
2. Go west on county rode b007 for 2.5 miles before veering left
3. Continue driving until you reach the Manby Hot Springs parking lot
4. Take the 1 mile hiking trail down to the springs.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa – Near Taos
Distance from Taos NM – 41 Miles
Driving time from Taos NM – 45 Minutes
Address: 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549
Cost: There is a fee unless staying on site
Open: All Year
Clothing: Required
Now that we have the primitive hot springs out of the way, it’s time for the life of luxury. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa is a perfect retreat for those looking to take a day or even a weekend for relaxation as you visit near Taos, NM. The springs come with a wide range of soaking options to go along with other activities such as a massage, day spa, skin therapy, and dining. There is truly nothing this hot springs resort doesn’t offer so leave the kids back in Taos and have an adult decompression day.
There are a total of twelve hot springs pools for you to enjoy at the resort ranging in temperatures from 80 – 106 degrees. What makes this location unique compared to other springs is each pool has their own class of minerals giving visitors freedom to choose what pool is best for their ailments or skin type. In fact they are the only hot springs in the world that have four different classifications of sulfur free pools.
In addition to the hot springs near Taos, the resort also offers two iron and arsenic pools along with their mud pool to leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. If that isn’t enough you can head on over to their Therapeutic Massage and Energy Healing center to help rebalance your body and mind.
Once you are done soaking in the minerals, head outside the resort for some hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, or even daily yoga. The resort is almost 1,000+ acres so there is plenty of activities to do other than enjoying the natural springs. After the long day be sure to stay in one of Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa many lodging accommodations including suites, cottages, hotel, or even your own private home. Campgrounds are also available with RV hookups.
Taos, NM has a ton of attractions and things to do in the area, but for those looking for a little adventure outside the city, consider one of the three above hot springs to visit. The primitive options will give you stories to tell for the rest of your life while the resort will reset your clock and get your ready for your next adventure.
Things to do in Taos, NM
Hot Springs aren’t the only great attractions within or near the city. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Taos.
1. Taos Ski Valley
Located near Taos, roughly 30 min drive, lies one of the best ski resorts in the state of New Mexico. Often thought of as a local secret, the resort has recently become a popular tourist destination with an average of 25 feet of snow every year. During the winter months, the 100+ slopes are ready for any skill level to conquer. What’s makes this such a great attraction is because it’s extremely spaced out, even on a more busy day, you will still feel like you are the only one there. It’s laid pack vibe also makes it a more relaxing vacation where you don’t feel like you need to rush to get as many runs in as possible. After a long day on the slopes, the hot springs near Taos are the perfect way to end the day and relax the muscles, before decided what’s next on the bucket list for tomorrow.
Website: skitaos.com
2. The Gorges
Also near Taos lies the Rio Grande Gorge and The Gorge Bridge. At almost a thousand feet, it is one of the most breathtaking views in New Mexico. Many love to spend the day walking over the bridge and taking one of several hiking trails in the area. There is ample parking, picnic areas, and a full day of adventure. Again we highly recommend enjoying a nice soak in one of the close by hot springs to make sure your body is ready and rested for the next day.
3. Taos Museums
The historical city of Taos boasts an impressive amount of museums that showcase the amazing history of the city. Just a few of the ones we highly recommend are:
The Millicent Rogers Museum – More of a gallery these days, enjoy Native American culture through art, jewelry, pottery, and so much more. The museum will take you back in time as one of the original museums to help the local artists.
Taos Art Museum – With over 600 different artworks, it’s one of the largest facilities to host local art in the entire state. The style includes paints, drawings, and even woodworks. The building itself is a piece of art as the buider used Spanish and Russian elements to bring the place to life.
Kit Carson Museum – Located right in the heart of the city of Taos, this museum encapsulates the entire history of the town. From it’s founders, settlers, and the culture that came to make this such an amazing city to visit.
4. Taos Plaza
The little town has one of the best shopping areas to explore. Located directly in the center of Taos, people from all over the country love to come here for great local cuisine, local shops, and local galleries. It almost feels like a tourist trap, but the way the plaza is laid out, it’s a great way to relax for a few hours before starting your next adventure.
5.Hot Air Balloon Rides
Our last recommendation is to enjoy an aerial view of Taos through their incredible hot air balloon rides. With some of the most scenic views you’ll find anywhere in the state let alone the country, it’s probably our top favorite activity to do. Not only will you get to see Taos from a birds eye view, but many companies will take you down into the gorge for a quick lunch before flying back up over the volcanic west and towards the Rocky Mountains.
Of course there are hundreds of other activities to do, but these are some of our top favorite. The best part is there are hot springs always close by if you need a quick break to soothe the muscles. Happy Exploring!
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