Hot Springs Historic Area
Explore historic bathhouse ruins and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande, accessible via a scenic, rugged drive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gorgeous views and cooler temps
Hot Springs Historic Area
Best Time
Gorgeous views and cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic bathhouse ruins and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande, accessible via a scenic, rugged drive.
"Nice walk to the hot spring but first check if the rio grande is not too high before you arrive there."
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The road to the springs is unpaved and rough; a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
💧 Check River Levels
High Rio Grande levels can make the springs muddy. Check conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Bathhouse Ruins
Along the Rio Grande
Explore the remnants of a once-popular thermal bathhouse, steeped in history and healing lore.
Natural Hot Springs Pool
Adjacent to the Rio Grande
Soak in the naturally heated waters, a unique experience with views of the river and surrounding cliffs.
Rio Grande Overlook
From the loop trail
Enjoy a scenic overlook of the mighty Rio Grande and the surrounding dramatic limestone cliffs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & River Levels
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The road to the springs is unpaved and rough; a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
💧 Check River Levels
High Rio Grande levels can make the springs muddy. Check conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
🥾 Loop Trail for Best Views
Opt for the mile-long loop trail for better overlooks of the Rio Grande and the springs.
🚫 Not Ideal for Dogs
The trail and heat aren't ideal for pets, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The road to the springs is unpaved and rough; a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
💧 Check River Levels
High Rio Grande levels can make the springs muddy. Check conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
🥾 Loop Trail for Best Views
Opt for the mile-long loop trail for better overlooks of the Rio Grande and the springs.
🚫 Not Ideal for Dogs
The trail and heat aren't ideal for pets, especially during warmer months.
⏰ Avoid Peak Crowds
If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for early mornings or late afternoons.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Hot Springs Historic Area a worthwhile stop for its unique blend of natural hot springs and historical ruins, especially when the Rio Grande levels are favorable. The scenic hike and potential for wildlife sightings add to the appeal, though the rough road access and potential for crowds are noted drawbacks.
"I think it's definitely worth it if the rio grande is not too high. We were there in early June 2025 and the river was so high that it went over the old walls of the bathhouse. For example, the water from the hot spring became very dirty (brown) and colder. You can clearly see where the hot water comes out of the ground. Nice walk to the hot spring but first check if the rio grande is not too high before you arrive there with swimming gear and have to return disappointed. The route to the hot springs is also not for everyone. Narrow roads on dirt road, not accessible to large cars."
Shelly van dooren
"The road to the trail is more suitable for vehicles that can drive off-road, not great for sedans. The hot spring is quite small but nice and it's not much of a trail, more so a very short walk to the hot spring. The sunset was gorgeous"
Vivian
"Great little hike to a small Hot Springs that still gets a lot of use. I enjoy reading the history and how this was a very popular draw considered for healing powers. The regular trail is only 1/2 mile round trip. However, the loop trail is better at around a mile and gives you a better overlook of the Rio Grande and view of Hot Springs pool from above."
Alan Bielefeldt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hot Springs Historic Area is located on the Rio Grande Village side of the park. Look for a clearly marked unpaved road on the right just before reaching the village. This road is more suitable for high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles, not sedans.
The drive involves navigating narrow, unpaved roads. While not overly long, it can be challenging for standard vehicles.
Parking is available at the trailhead. Due to the road conditions, it's best to arrive in a suitable vehicle.
Access is primarily from the Rio Grande Village side. Other trails in the park offer different experiences and may not directly lead to these specific hot springs.
Currently, there are no specific shuttle services directly to the Hot Springs Historic Area. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park requires a valid entrance pass. There are no separate tickets for accessing the Hot Springs Historic Area itself once inside the park.
The area is generally accessible during park operating hours. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any specific closures or seasonal adjustments.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the national park. It's recommended to purchase your pass in advance or upon arrival.
Yes, you can soak in the natural hot springs. However, be mindful of river conditions, as high water can affect the water quality and temperature.
Visitors should be aware of the road conditions and river levels. It's also important to respect the historic nature of the bathhouse ruins and not disturb them.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail is about a half-mile round trip. A loop trail offers a slightly longer experience at around a mile, providing better overlooks of the Rio Grande.
The hot springs can become quite crowded, especially during peak times. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
You can explore the interesting remnants of the old bathhouse buildings and enjoy scenic views of the Rio Grande and the surrounding cliffs.
While the hike is short, the rough road access and potential for crowds might be considerations for families with very young children. The river access is also a factor.
Some visitors have reported seeing wild horses drinking at the river's edge. Keep an eye out for other local wildlife as well.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers particularly gorgeous lighting and dramatic skies. Early mornings can also provide beautiful soft light with fewer people in your shots.
Capture the historic bathhouse ruins, the natural hot springs pool, the expansive Rio Grande, and the rugged limestone cliffs.
The overlook from the loop trail provides a great vantage point for landscape shots of the river. The ruins themselves offer unique photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the landscape. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations. Always check the official park website for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to check the Rio Grande river levels before visiting. High water can make the hot springs muddy and less appealing for a soak. If the river is accessible, it offers a chance for kids to experience the riverbank. Keep in mind that the springs can get crowded, so an early morning visit might be best for a more relaxed family experience.
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
This drive adds an element of adventure to the visit, setting it apart from more easily accessible locations. Successfully navigating the road provides a sense of accomplishment and often leads to a less crowded experience, especially if arriving outside of peak hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Road to the Springs
This road is not just about the surface; it's also about the experience. Some describe it as a '4x4 trail,' emphasizing its rugged nature. Planning your approach and understanding these road conditions can prevent disappointment and ensure a smoother arrival. If you're renting a vehicle, consider opting for an SUV or truck if you plan to visit this area.
Key takeaway: Prioritize vehicle suitability for the unpaved road to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the Hot Springs Historic Area.
Understanding the Hot Springs Experience
Visitors often mention the historic bathhouse ruins as a point of interest. These remnants offer a glimpse into the past, when the springs were a popular destination believed to have healing powers. The hike itself is relatively short, with a main trail of about half a mile round trip. For more expansive views, the loop trail, approximately a mile long, is recommended as it provides a better overlook of the Rio Grande and the springs from above.
Community insights suggest that the springs can get crowded. To fully appreciate the tranquility and historical ambiance, timing your visit for early mornings or late afternoons is advisable. Sunset also provides a spectacular backdrop for photography and a more serene atmosphere as day-trippers depart.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit