Taos Hot Springs

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.