Black Rock Hot Springs
Secluded natural hot springs along the Rio Grande, offering a rustic soak with stunning New Mexico scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful soak
Black Rock Hot Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful soak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Secluded natural hot springs along the Rio Grande, offering a rustic soak with stunning New Mexico scenery.
"Soak in these secluded hot springs along the Rio Grande!!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The hike can be rocky and uneven; good shoes are a must for safe access.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are no facilities on-site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rio Grande River Views
Adjacent to the hot springs
Soak in the warm waters with stunning views of the majestic Rio Grande River.
Secluded Natural Pools
Along the Rio Grande
Discover multiple pools with varying temperatures, nestled amongst unique black rock formations.
The Hike to the Springs
From John Dunn Bridge parking
Enjoy a scenic mile-long trek with some challenging, bouldering sections leading to the springs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Black Rock Hot Springs
Accessing Black Rock Hot Springs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The hike can be rocky and uneven; good shoes are a must for safe access.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are no facilities on-site.
🚗 Park Smartly
Park near John Dunn Bridge; the walk to the springs is about a mile.
🤫 Respect the Space
Keep noise levels down and pack out all trash to preserve the natural beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The hike can be rocky and uneven; good shoes are a must for safe access.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are no facilities on-site.
🚗 Park Smartly
Park near John Dunn Bridge; the walk to the springs is about a mile.
🤫 Respect the Space
Keep noise levels down and pack out all trash to preserve the natural beauty.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy these natural hot springs without any admission fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the beautiful surroundings and the natural, secluded feel of Black Rock Hot Springs. The varying pool temperatures and the scenic hike are highlights. However, some find the access trail challenging and a few have reported uncomfortable encounters with other visitors.
"Beautiful surroundings! Park near the bridge and walk about a mile to the hot spring. It’s pretty small, only one hot pool but it was hot! It’s right along the river for a great view."
Lindsey Price
"While this is definitely not the most amazing hot springs ever, it is still pretty awesome and the river is beautiful! It’s a nice little hike and everyone there was really nice and respectful. It’s a great spot with beautiful views! We went on Saturday 4/13/2024."
K W
"Short hike to nice small pools. The larger pool is perfect for 4-6 people and is warm-hot. The small pool closest to the big pool is shallow but warm enough and big enough for one person. The other two small pools are closer to the river so they are pretty cool-cold. The hike has some challenging places. You start high then make your way down to the river. Follow the river away from the parking area until you hit the spring. It seems like a rock slide took out some of the path so you have to do a bit of bouldering. It's not hard but it's helpful to have two hands for sure. It's about a mile round trip. I don't have a picture of the larger pool because there was a naked guy in it..."
Kelly Geer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Rock Hot Springs are located near Taos, New Mexico. You'll typically drive towards John Dunn Bridge and park nearby. From the parking area, it's about a mile-long walk to the springs along the Rio Grande. 
Yes, parking is available across the bridge from the trailhead. Be prepared for a short hike from your vehicle to the springs.
The hike is approximately one mile round trip. It involves some uneven and rocky terrain, with sections that may require using your hands for balance, especially if a rock slide has affected the path.
You can type 'Black Rock Hot Springs' into Google Maps, and it should guide you to the general area.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Black Rock Hot Springs. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Black Rock Hot Springs are free to access. There are no admission fees required to enjoy the natural pools.
As a natural, undeveloped site, there are no official operating hours. Visitors can typically access them during daylight hours.
While Black Rock Hot Springs are within the vicinity of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, the springs themselves do not have an entrance fee.
Camping is available at nearby locations like John Dunn Bridge Overlook, which is a convenient base for visiting the hot springs.
No reservations are needed as it's a natural, free-access site. However, it can get busy on weekends.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water temperatures vary among the pools. Some are comfortably warm (around 98-101°F), while others closer to the river can be cooler.
There are typically four pools with varying temperatures. One is large enough to stand in, another for sitting, and two smaller ones closer to the river.
Bring water, snacks, a towel, and wear sturdy shoes for the hike. Consider bringing a swimsuit, though many visitors go nude.
The Rio Grande can have strong currents. Exercise caution and be aware of the water conditions if you choose to enter the river.
No, Black Rock Hot Springs is a natural, undeveloped site. There are no facilities, so be prepared to go without.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique black rock formations, the flowing Rio Grande, and the serene atmosphere of the pools. The surrounding landscape offers beautiful backdrops.
Be respectful of other visitors' privacy. Many people choose to be nude at hot springs, so avoid taking unsolicited photos of them.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in national monument areas. Check current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, and a waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities available. 💰 Budget Travelers
The main costs will be transportation to the area and any food or supplies you bring. The hike itself is part of the experience, saving you money on guided tours or entrance fees. 💑 Couples Seeking Romance
+1 Consider visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons to enjoy a more intimate experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river before or after your soak. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Appeal of Black Rock Hot Springs
The varying temperatures of the pools are a key feature, allowing visitors to find their perfect soak. From a standing pool to a single-person warm pool and cooler river-adjacent options, there's a spot for everyone. The surrounding landscape of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument provides a breathtaking backdrop, making the entire experience feel like an adventure.
+1It's important to remember that this is an undeveloped area. This means no amenities like restrooms or changing rooms, and visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles. The natural beauty is the main draw, and preserving it is a shared responsibility among all who visit.
Navigating the Hike and Access
Some visitors have noted that parts of the trail can be challenging, involving a descent down a rocky cliffside and even some bouldering. This is particularly true if recent rock slides have altered the path, making it necessary to use your hands for stability. It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots for this part of the journey.
Following the Rio Grande away from the parking area is the key to finding the springs. The effort is well worth it for the secluded and rewarding experience that awaits at the end of the trail.
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