One of our favorite past times is searching out and enjoying wild hot springs and, fortunately for us, there are quite a few in the southwest US, close to where we live. Some are right by main roads and some require quite a hike in. We’ve compiled a list of our top 5 favorites that we’ve found so far:
South Canyon Hot Springs
Right outside Glenwood Springs, CO, famous for its own commercial hot springs, is the lesser-known hot springs pool, South Canyon Hot Springs. It’s fairly close to the road and was definitely clothing optional when we went. While not the most picturesque pool itself (it was a little muddy and brown) it’s in a beautiful valley and we went when all the wildflowers were blooming.
Saratoga Hot Springs
Located just outside Salt Lake City, UT, this hot springs is an easy flat walk of about ¼ mile from the parking lot. It’s a little muddy and a bathing suit is mandatory, but it’s nice and hot and a good option for families.
Rainbow Hot Springs
Located 5-miles in on a hiking trail outside Pagosa Springs, Rainbow Hot Springs is worth the trip. When we went, we backpacked in and camped right by the springs for the night, getting to dip in the many different pools by the river whenever we wanted to. Even though we made the trip over Labor Day weekend, the long trail keeps a lot of the crowds away and we had some pools all to ourselves for quite a while.
Spence Hot Springs
While not the hottest of the hot springs, Spence Hot Springs in northern New Mexico is absolutely gorgeous. It’s about a half-mile hike over rather steep ground, and located on a hillside overlooking the valley and winding highway below. It is a small hot springs, however, so it might be best to go during the week or other off-peak times to ensure it’s not too crowded.
San Antonio Hot Springs
Our favorite wild hot spring is San Antonio Hot Spring outside the little town of Jemez, NM. It takes a good 4-wheel drive to get from the highway down the dirt road and even at the end of this road, it’s about 1 ½ mile hike up a steep hill to the spring, but the spring is definitely worth it. We’ve been twice now and it’s one of the most beautiful hot springs I’ve ever been to, wild or curated. Clothing is optional, but good hiking shoes are a must!
Bonus: Valley View Hot Springs
Our favorite commercial hot springs is Valley View Hot Springs, run by the Orient Mine Land Trust. It’s a commercial hot springs that doesn’t feel like a commercial hot springs and it’s wonderful. You can either choose to camp or rent one of the rustic cabins available. There are communal showers, a sauna, and around 8 different natural-looking pools to choose from.
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The Traveling Acrobats 