Location: Jemez Springs
Top Things to do in Jemez Springs
Top Restaurants in Jemez Springs
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The 10 Best Things to Do in Jemez Springs, United States
Jemez Springs (pronounced HEH-mes) is a village in Sandoval County, New Mexico, United States. The population was 375 at the 2000 census. Named for the nearby Pueblo of Jemez, the village is the site of Jemez State Monument and the headquarters of the Jemez Ranger District. The village and nearby locations in the Jemez Valley are the site of hot springs and several religious retreats.
Restaurants in Jemez Springs
1. Jemez Mountains
Overall Ratings
5 based on 130 reviews
Reviewed By bryonia2015 - Brisbane, Australia
This is one fantastic scenic drive, although a little hairy in a snow blizzard. Heading west from Albuquerque, toward Los Alamos and Santa Fe, we chose New Mexico Route 4, which is no doddle, even if only 64 miles long (103 kilometers). Route 4 passes through Jemez Pueblo, into Jemez Springs before climbing steeply into the Jemez Mountains, through the Santa Fe National Forest, skirting the southern boundary of Valles Caldera National Preserve. On the east side of the Jemez Mountains, it descends even more steeply, on a series of hairpin turns (overlooking the Frijoles Canyon in Bandelier National Monument) into White Rock then leading east onto a connection road to Los Alamos National Laboratory sites.
We passed easily through Jemez Pueblo, into Jemez Springs, dressed for a sunny adventure, perhaps a soak at the hot springs. The day turned cool by the time we reached Jemez Springs, which reminded us of Australia, with red soil and massive red mounds. The road wound round and through the mountains until we reached a steep piece of road. It started to snow lightly and we chuckled about the fact we had never seen snow falling. As we stopped to admire Soda Springs, it started snowing even harder, so we pulled out some pathetically thin jeans, jackets and gloves, thinking it would peter out shortly. The snow kept falling so hard it soon was almost impossible to see the springs, so we took a few photos then jumped in the car to warm up. Travelling further up the mountain the flakes got bigger, blanketing everything in sight. We now experienced our first snow storm, driving on roads covered in snow and ice. Everything whited out as we followed in the wheel well of vehicles which had previously passed. After stopping to offer aid to a motorbike rider on the side of the road, we were pleased when a huge truck passed, leaving wheel tracks for us all to follow. 2 miles down the road our hearts sank, as the road descends steeply around tight corners and switchbacks. Nearing the Los Alamos turnoff, a snowplough appeared (no dream, it was real) and with the lower elevation the snow flakes began to melt. Our sunny adventure had been more exciting than we expected. We later heard the road had been closed due to the blizzard we had passed through. We soon learned to always check the weather forecast, even if it is spring. More by accident than design, we had water and food in the car as well as a mobile phone and a blanket if we had been stuck.
2. Jemez Hot Springs: Home of The Giggling Springs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 266 reviews
Jemez Hot Springs, Home of The Giggling Springs is located at the site of the earliest Bath House in the Jemez Springs area. Before that, the mineral water was used by the Native Americans of the area. Our water comes from deep beneath the Valles Caldera (ancient volcano) up the mountain. The four pools contain an ancient sea water abundant with a relaxing and therapeutic blend of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, silica, sodium and more. The source is 142 degrees F, but the pools are kept at a comfortable 102-104 degrees. The water is natural, and no chlorine or chemicals are added. We use ultraviolet light, ionizers and an oxygen inversions system to disinfect the water, and they are flow-through pools, so the water changes out regularly. Swim suits are required, children 14 and over are welcome, and for the comfort of our guests. Reservations are not required.
Reviewed By Juanita C - Albuquerque, New Mexico
A very clean and relaxing place to soak away your aches and pains in a natural hot spring. Very peaceful and quiet. And we didn't have to hike to it like some of the other ones around. Will go back and recommend this place to anyone going to Jemez Springs.
3. Valles Caldera National Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 298 reviews
Known for its expansive high mountain valles, large elk herds, and diverse history, the Preserve is a favorite among the locals when friends and relatives are in town. If you are in New Mexico you do not want to miss this. Bring your camera and enjoy the expansive views. Pet Friendly: Dogs on leashes are welcome at the contact stations, but are prohibited elsewhere on the Preserve. Registered assistance animals are allowed.
Reviewed By CathyP1953 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The drive from The Bandelier National Park is beautiful!!! The igneous rock formations displayed on the rock faces as you neared the area demonstrated the power of the super volcano that erupted here millions of years ago. To suddenly drive upon the actual crater is a scientists dream area. I loved being able to physically drive down into the bottom center of the massive structure. The employees at the Visitors Center were so knowledgeable about the history of the area. We arrived too late in the day to physically hike the trails, but we took many interesting photos. Make this park a bucket list must see places!
4. Jemez Trail National Scenic Byway
Overall Ratings
5 based on 64 reviews
Reviewed By jbwhitehouse - Dallas, Texas
We drove this route along Road 4 from Bandalier National Monument. It takes a bit longer than the alternative route, but is much more rewarding in views and stops along the way. Soda Mountain and Jemez Springs are two examples of destinations themselves. Lovely drive, though be aware that you drive slower due to curves in the road.
5. Jemez Springs Bath House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 129 reviews
The Bath House, built in 1876, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Water issues from the spring at 159-189F. Some water is diverted into holding tanks overnight to cool so that bathers have control over the water temperature. We have 8 oversized cement tubs; they are private & individual so no swimsuit is required. We also offer wraps and massage. Visit our newly renovated Gift Shop for wonderful gifts & souvenirs.
Reviewed By alice w - Placitas, New Mexico
I am fond of this place; it is simply relaxing without any pretense.
First warning: it's not posh. This is an old bath house from the 1880's run by the community of Jemez Springs.
Big over sized tubs, hot mineral spring water.
Very good staff, sets things up for you. Bottles of water, towels.
You can do just this or add a herbal wrap. Same attentive people misting your face and placing cool cloths on your forehead and neck.
You can add on a massage of different lengths. By the time they were finished with me, my legs were too wobbly to walk well.
I like massages, spas and hot springs. It's something I seek out when traveling.
This is a favorite; it's not a fancy place, it provides a place of rest and relaxation with very good people.
It is affordable.
6. Soda Dam
Overall Ratings
4 based on 95 reviews
Reviewed By move2wonder - Boston, Massachusetts
Off Route 4 and there are parking spaces right next to the Jemez Soda Dam and a larger lot to the left. I came during school break so the place was busy with families. Ideal for pictures and some people even crawled inside the tiny recesses to the side of the rushing water. A nice 10-15 minute appreciation for one of nature's surprises.
7. Battleship Rock
Overall Ratings
4 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By TravellerStLouis - St Louis
This park is located in the Jemez Mountains. The rock looms over the parking lot when you enter. We did the spring hike. It was not well marked and took much longer than anticipated. However, it is one I would do again.
8. McCauley Hot Spring
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
You have to hike about two miles to view the clear, warm spring located in the mountains.
Reviewed By Biotourist - Garland, Texas
The hike up from Battleship Rock on Highway 4 is delightful. The scenery is beautiful, and the enormous obsidian rocks from the nearby caldera are an added benefit. The forest is primarily Ponderosa pine with some oak, meaning that there is a sparse understory that allows plenty of opportunities to stop for photos of the surrounding red sandstone mountains. It is not at all a difficult hike to the springs, but seems a little longer than the advertised 2 miles. The ponds at the warm springs are not very large or deep, but they are clear, and dangling your feet in them and watching the little fish nibbling at your skin is an interesting diversion. Go primarily for the journey, rather than for the destination.
9. Soda Dam Hot Springs
Overall Ratings
4 based on 30 reviews
Photogenic but small, these springs give off a strong sulfur smell.
Reviewed By pamelaL74 - Boerne, Texas
We stopped ot see soda dam and checked out the springs across the road. There was trash and lots of algae, which I didnt see at either of the other springs. The pool is just a collection of water pooled up beside the concrete road barrier. Not scenic, not very safe, and it just didnt look very clean either. The bubbling spring looks amazing with its travertine, but I would snap a pic and avoid the dip.
10. Spence Hot Springs
Overall Ratings
4 based on 71 reviews
Bathing suits are optional as you soak away your worries in the 102 degree hot spring pools that offer soft, sandy bottoms.
Reviewed By GypsyJulie - Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States
I have been to this magical spring twice and was invigorated by both experiences. The main pool is more warm than hot but there is a tiny cave attached to it where the hot water comes forth. This is a perfect size for two or three people . It is a very special feeling to be inside the earth bathing in the healing water. The trail is a bit strenuous at the end- but well worth the climb- Go to Spence hot springs if you are ever in the Jemez! You will be glad you did.
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