The 8 best hot springs in New Mexico

Why these made the list

1. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

   A long-running resort with nine mineral pools of different water types, from 80 to 105°F, including the arsenic pool. Day entry is paid and open late. Shower with soap first, and children under 13 are not allowed.

2. Truth or Consequences Hot Springs

   Small downtown bathhouses and motor-court lodges all drawing from one geothermal aquifer, with water from 98 to 112°F. Most sell private tubs or hourly soaks. Riverbend has open-air pools by the river.

3. San Antonio Hot Springs

   Four cascading pools in a red canyon in the Jemez Mountains, free, with the upper pools hottest at roughly 105 to 110°F. A short walk from the end of a rough Forest Service road.

4. Faywood Hot Springs

   Public soaking pools kept around 100 to 105°F, with swimsuit-required and clothing-optional areas. Reserve ahead. A good base between Silver City and Deming, with camping and RV spots.

5. Manby Hot Springs

   Rock-lined pools near 98°F beside the Rio Grande north of Taos. Reach them by walking the river trail from near John Dunn Bridge, about 2 miles. Pools can flood at high water.

6. Soda Dam

   A travertine dam across the Jemez River beside the highway. Soak where 117°F water mixes with the river, or try the piped pool near the waterfall. Climbing the fragile travertine is prohibited.

7. Montezuma Hot Springs

   Concrete tubs on a hillside beside the Gallinas River, free from dawn until 10 p.m., ranging from about 94 to 120°F. The hottest tub, the Lobster Pot, can scald, so test it.

8. Spence Hot Springs

   A short walk from Highway 4 to terraced rock pools along the East Fork of the Jemez River, mid 90s to 100°F. Parking is tiny and fills early, so arrive before the crowd.