New Mexico

Black Rock Hot Springs - Hot Springs in New Mexico

05/16/2017

In the lush natural highlands of northern New Mexico, there is a traditional Native American settlement.

The fact that the hot springs are located in the immediate vicinity of the World Heritage-listed residence should not be overlooked.

Taos Pueblo

The Taos Pueblo, the residence of the Native American Taos Tribe, is a historic structure built more than 1,000 years ago.

The structure is the original of the adobe style common in the region.

Taos Pueblo

And surprisingly, it is still an active "housing complex" today, with some 150 residents living there despite the lack of electricity and running water.

The abundant nature around Taos Pueblo was the reason why people flocked to the area.

Dotted with black rocks

Public Toilet

About a 30-minute drive from Taos Pueblo, the second half on dirt roads.

I got out of the car in the area of the John Dunn Bridge.

The Bridge

Around this area, the Rio Grande formed a deep canyon.

The Rio Grande

After walking along the steep slope for about 20 minutes, more black rocks began to appear around me.

Black Rock

The rocks were full of small holes formed when the lava cools and hardens.

These may be due to past volcanic activity.

The Pool1

As I continued on, the rocks gradually increased in size and blocked my way until I reached a point where I could go no further.

Descending

A nude woman was soaking in the shade of a rock.

Alpaca
Alpaca
So there are people like that.
It's not unusual.
Capybara
Capybara

The rule seemed to be clothing optional, so I decided not to wear anything here as well.

The Pool3

It was an early morning visit in April, but the temperature was below freezing due to the high altitude.

Shivering with cold, I put my feet in the hot water and found it hot enough to soak in.

Water Surface1

It was a colorless, transparent water, and it had a distinctive mineral odor.

The color of the rocks reflected the water, and the water looked ink-colored.

Soaking 01

The pool was assimilated with the Rio Grande at the edge.

What was somewhat disappointing was that this flow path did not allow for sufficient replacement of the water in the rock pool.

Water Surface2

A short distance away from the source among the rocks, the water was stagnant and algae were growing in some places.

The water quality itself was characteristic of a hot spring in a volcanic area, so it would be good if the flow path could be devised.

Summary

Black Rock Hot Springs, Arroyo Hondo, New Mexico, U.S.

My rating

Type: Undeveloped

Rule: Clothing optional

Chemical use: No

Water temp: Up to 106 degrees F

  • Writer

Hot Springer Ken

A hot spring enthusiast based in Japan. Toured over 300 North American hot springs while working in Texas from 2016 to 2022. For updates, visit X or Instagram!

-New Mexico
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