Soda Dam Jemez
A stunning natural dam of calcium carbonate and travertine, formed by hot springs, creating a unique bridge over the Jemez River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Soda Dam Jemez
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning natural dam of calcium carbonate and travertine, formed by hot springs, creating a unique bridge over the Jemez River.
"Super easy to access and definitely worth a quick stop if you’re in the area."
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Right off Highway 4, perfect for a quick photo op and to marvel at nature's work.
🧊 Frozen Wonder in Winter
Visit in winter to see the dam iced over with stunning icicles!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Soda Dam Formation
Highway 4, Jemez Springs
A unique natural dam of calcium carbonate and travertine, creating a bridge over the Jemez River.
Hot Spring Remnants
Near the dam
Discover spots where warm or hot water emerges, a testament to the area's geothermal activity.
Scenic Highway 4 Drive
Jemez Mountains
The drive itself offers stunning views, with Soda Dam being a key scenic stop along the route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Access Natural Wonder
Geological Marvel & Hot Springs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Right off Highway 4, perfect for a quick photo op and to marvel at nature's work.
🧊 Frozen Wonder in Winter
Visit in winter to see the dam iced over with stunning icicles!
🥾 Explore Nearby
Combine with Battleship Rock or hot spring hikes for a fuller day trip.
💧 Dip in Warm Waters
Some spots have warm water; great for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Right off Highway 4, perfect for a quick photo op and to marvel at nature's work.
🧊 Frozen Wonder in Winter
Visit in winter to see the dam iced over with stunning icicles!
🥾 Explore Nearby
Combine with Battleship Rock or hot spring hikes for a fuller day trip.
💧 Dip in Warm Waters
Some spots have warm water; great for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera for unique geological formations and scenic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Soda Dam for its unique geological formation and easy accessibility right off the highway. Many find it a picturesque and worthwhile quick stop, especially when combined with other Jemez Mountains attractions. Some note minor littering issues, but the natural beauty generally outweighs this concern.
"Super easy to access and definitely worth a quick stop if you’re in the area. The natural sodium carbonate dam is truly unique—unlike anything we’d seen before. You can spot what looks like the remains of a former hot spring, though we didn’t cross the river to explore it up close.
If you’re into bouldering or light caving, this could be a really fun spot to check out with some interesting rock formations and small caves.
It’s just 5 minutes from Battleship Rock (also very scenic) and about 10 minutes from two different hikes that lead to natural hot springs, so it fits in perfectly as part of a day trip. I wouldn’t make the trip just to see the dam on its own, but as part of our day up from Santa Fe, it was totally worth it."
Christy Sharkey
"Absolutely loved this place! Easy to access because it’s right off the road, water feels great and has little spots where hot/warm water comes out of."
Against the Grain
"What a bizarre place. Easy stop along the road and good for a quick picture. Some trash lying around from folks sunbathing or just hanging out, but that didn’t deter me from a quick stop and some photos."
Steven Christofferson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Soda Dam is conveniently located directly on New Mexico State Route 4, north of the village of Jemez Springs. It's a very easy stop to access during a scenic drive through the Jemez Mountains. +1
Yes, there is roadside parking available near the dam, making it a simple pull-off for visitors.
Absolutely! Soda Dam is an ideal stop for a day trip, especially when combined with other attractions in the Jemez Springs area like Battleship Rock or Fenton Lake.
The most scenic route is typically via Highway 4, which winds through the beautiful Jemez Mountains. Be prepared for winding roads and stunning vistas. +1
The main viewing area is easily accessible from the road. Exploring further might involve uneven terrain, so wear appropriate footwear.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Soda Dam is a natural formation and is free to visit. There are no admission fees required. +1
As a natural outdoor attraction, Soda Dam is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
There is no entrance fee to visit Soda Dam. It's a public access point along Highway 4.
While some visitors enjoy dipping their feet in the water, it's not a designated swimming area. Be mindful of the current and the natural formations.
General park rules apply, such as not littering. Some areas might be slippery due to the mineral deposits and water.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself, with the river flowing through it, is the primary subject. Look for unique angles showcasing the travertine formations and any ice formations in winter. +1
Yes, Soda Dam offers unique geological landscapes. The surrounding Jemez Mountains also provide beautiful backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Forest Service for current rules regarding drone operation in the area.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the textures of the dam. Late afternoon light can also create dramatic shadows.
The unique travertine formations and the way the river carves through the dam are prime photo opportunities. In winter, frozen icicles add a magical element.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the unique geological formation, take photos, and enjoy the natural beauty. Some visitors enjoy dipping their feet in the water.
While you can get close, walking directly on the dam might not be advisable due to its natural and potentially slippery surface. Stick to designated viewing areas.
Soda Dam itself is more of a roadside attraction. However, there are numerous hiking trails in the surrounding Jemez Mountains, including those leading to hot springs.
You might spot local birds and small mammals. The Jemez Mountains are known for their diverse wildlife, though sightings are not guaranteed.
The dam is a natural wonder formed over thousands of years by mineral-rich hot springs. It's a testament to the geological activity of the Valles Caldera region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing water shoes if your children want to dip their feet in the water. Since it's right off the highway, it's perfect for a quick stop to stretch legs and let kids explore a bit. Pair this visit with a picnic at a nearby scenic spot or a short, easy hike in the Jemez Mountains for a complete family outing.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's the perfect place for a quick photo stop or a brief exploration. Combine it with other nearby points of interest like Battleship Rock, Jemez State Monument, or the various hot springs for a comprehensive day trip from Santa Fe or Albuquerque.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Soda Dam
The dam's formation is a direct result of the geothermal activity in the Jemez Mountains, which is linked to the ancient Valles Caldera supervolcano. This volcanic past has created a landscape dotted with hot springs and other geothermal features. The dam itself acts as a natural bridge, with the Jemez River flowing beneath it, creating a picturesque scene that draws visitors interested in natural wonders.
While the dam is the main attraction, visitors can sometimes spot where the warm or hot spring water emerges, a reminder of the ongoing geological processes. The texture and color of the travertine deposits can vary, adding to the visual appeal of this natural marvel.
Experiencing Soda Dam: Beyond the View
While the dam is the star, some reviews mention the possibility of bouldering or light caving in the area, suggesting further exploration for the adventurous. The water near the dam can be warm, and some visitors enjoy a quick dip, though it's not a formal swimming spot. Be cautious of slippery surfaces and the river's current.
For those looking to extend their visit, Soda Dam is conveniently located near other attractions. It's just a short drive from Battleship Rock and offers access to hikes leading to natural hot springs, making it a great starting point for a day of exploring the Jemez Mountains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit