Dripping Springs Natural Area
Explore historic ruins and a unique spring amidst the dramatic Organ Mountains. Offers trails for all levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Dripping Springs Natural Area
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic ruins and a unique spring amidst the dramatic Organ Mountains. Offers trails for all levels.
"A peaceful desert retreat where old stone buildings and quiet trails invite reflection and wonder."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rocky and have elevation gain. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. There are limited water sources.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dripping Springs & Boyd Sanitarium Ruins
End of the main trail
Hike to the historic 1800s resort buildings and a unique granite-wall spring, offering a glimpse into the past.
Organ Mountains Views
Throughout the trails
Experience breathtaking panoramic vistas of the rugged Organ Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
La Cueva
Near the Arroyo Trail
Discover a fascinating historical site with evidence of human occupation dating back thousands of years.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rocky and have elevation gain. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. There are limited water sources.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Little shade is available. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the desert sun.
🚗 Parking Fee Required
A $5 parking fee is collected. The America the Beautiful Pass is also accepted for entry.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rocky and have elevation gain. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months. There are limited water sources.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Little shade is available. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the desert sun.
🚗 Parking Fee Required
A $5 parking fee is collected. The America the Beautiful Pass is also accepted for entry.
🗺️ Visitor Center for Info
Stop by the visitor center for maps and helpful advice from staff and volunteers.
🍄 Nature ID Fun
Use apps like Seek to identify fungi and other flora on the trails, great for families!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and the historical significance of Dripping Springs Natural Area. The trails offer a good challenge with rewarding views, and the remnants of the 1800s resort provide a unique glimpse into the past. While the hike can be strenuous and shade is limited, the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature make it a highly recommended destination.
"This trail is amazing. I loved everything about it. It’s not an easy climb because of the 500+ feet of elevation gain in 1.5 miles, but it’s not a technical trail and doesn’t present any danger as long as you can hike or run on gravel. Just wear good shoes and sunscreen and bring water. The BLM volunteers at the center are very helpful. Be sure to pay your $5 parking fee!"
Michele O'Neill
"This morning’s chilly walk to Dripping Springs Natural Area was exactly what my soul needed. The trail is easy and accessible, making it perfect for a slow, mindful pace.
I took some time to meditate along the way, and the quiet surroundings made it feel like the entire space was holding that stillness for me. The air was crisp, the landscape serene, and the energy incredibly grounding.
Whether you’re looking to clear your head, connect with nature, or just enjoy a peaceful stroll, this spot is a gem. Grateful for places like this that make it so easy to breathe and be."
Yazmin Gomez
"Great area for short to moderate hikes, you chose your level. There are several miles of beautiful hiking trails. The most popular hike is a 3 mile total out and back to see Dripping springs and ruins of an historic mountain camp and sanitarium. The hike is spectacular into the base of the Organ Mountains. This is a fee area and there is a visitor center with maps, information and helpful staff/volunteers."
Amanda Mueller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dripping Springs Natural Area is located about 10 miles east of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Access is straightforward, and it's a popular destination for those looking for outdoor adventures near the city.
While there isn't a traditional park gate, the area is managed by the BLM and has a designated visitor center which serves as the primary point of access and information.
Unlike some state parks, Dripping Springs Natural Area does not have strictly posted opening and closing hours, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The access roads and parking areas are generally suitable for most vehicles, but it's always wise to drive cautiously, especially if you have a larger recreational vehicle.
Yes, Dripping Springs Natural Area is approximately an hour's drive from El Paso, making it a feasible day trip destination. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 parking fee required for entry into Dripping Springs Natural Area. The America the Beautiful Pass is also accepted.
The parking fee is typically paid at the visitor center or via an honor system at designated pay stations within the area.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass, which covers entrance fees to national parks and federal recreational lands, is accepted at Dripping Springs Natural Area.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the America the Beautiful Pass offers an annual option for frequent visitors to federal lands.
Tickets or parking passes are generally purchased on-site, as there isn't a system for advance booking for this natural area.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The most popular hike is the 3-mile out-and-back trail to the Dripping Springs and historic Boyd Sanitarium ruins. Other trails range from easy beginner paths to challenging expert routes.
The hike to Dripping Springs involves over 500 feet of elevation gain in about 1.5 miles, making it a moderate climb. It's not technical but requires good shoes and stamina.
Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and potentially at trailheads or picnic areas. It's always good to confirm availability upon arrival.
Yes, the area offers opportunities to see desert wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other desert inhabitants.
You can explore the remnants of the 1800s Boyd Sanitarium and resort buildings, as well as La Cueva, which has evidence of ancient human occupation.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services within Dripping Springs Natural Area. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, picnic areas are available, and it's a great way to enjoy the scenery. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The closest dining options are in Las Cruces, New Mexico, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
There is a water spigot near the La Cueva trailhead and picnic area, and also at the visitor center. However, it's always recommended to bring your own water supply.
You'll find grocery stores in Las Cruces, which is a short drive from the natural area, where you can purchase picnic supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The Organ Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for photos. The historic ruins and the unique spring also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh due to the lack of shade.
Yes, photographing the Boyd Sanitarium ruins and La Cueva provides a unique historical perspective within the natural landscape.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Use a zoom lens for close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can make the experience more engaging by using nature identification apps like Seek to discover and learn about local flora and fauna, including fascinating fungi. While the main hike to the Boyd Sanitarium ruins involves elevation gain, it's manageable for older children with proper preparation. Emphasize the importance of bringing plenty of water and wearing sturdy shoes.
Remember to pack snacks or a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
It's essential for solo hikers to prioritize safety by informing someone of their hiking plans, carrying sufficient water and supplies, and being aware of their surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Terrain
For those seeking more strenuous adventures, Dripping Springs serves as a gateway to more challenging routes within the Organ Mountains. These can range up to 9-hour expert hikes, so consulting detailed trail maps from sources like AllTrails or Strava is highly recommended before embarking on longer excursions.
+1It's crucial to be prepared for desert conditions. The area offers little shade, so sun protection is paramount.
Historical Significance
+1 The natural spring itself, a vital water source in the arid landscape, was also a key feature of the original resort. Beyond the sanitarium, Dripping Springs holds even deeper historical roots. La Cueva, located near the Arroyo Trail, is a significant archaeological site. Evidence suggests human occupation in this area for at least the last 5,000 years, making it a place of immense cultural importance.
Exploring these sites provides a tangible connection to the past, from early inhabitants to the era of desert resorts. These historical elements, combined with the dramatic geological formations of the Organ Mountains, create a compelling destination. The juxtaposition of ancient human presence, 19th-century structures, and the raw beauty of the desert landscape makes Dripping Springs a place of reflection and discovery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit