Nothing takes the chill off a cold day like soaking in warm water. Sometimes I like to hike with my family to a favorite spot to get some fresh air and exercise first. Other times, I’d rather slow down and relax with friends or my partner at a spa.
No matter what the day calls for, here are six options to thaw the winter chill and bring some warmth to your bones.
Jemez Hot Springs
Location: 040 Abousleman Loop, Jemez Springs
Price: starts at $25/hr
Kid Friendly: ages 14+
What to bring/tips:
They do not have a reservation system, using a first come first served method, unless it is a group of 10 or larger, in which case you can call prior to opening. Bring water, a swimsuit, and a towel. They do have towel and robe rentals available.
Best known for:
There are four pools on the property of varying temperatures. Lodging is available, and a two-hour soak is included in the stay.
McCauley Warm Springs
Location: 73 miles north of Albuquerque, off Hwy 4, 2 miles east of Battleship Rock
Price: small fee at the parking lot, bring cash
Kid Friendly: yes
What to bring/tips:
There are a couple of different hikes to access these springs, and the trail can be steep and rocky in parts. The parking lots fill up fast, so if you can, head out early before it gets crowded.
Best known for:
Beautiful hiking with lots of shade and wildflowers in the spring. One of my favorite hikes in New Mexico is to access the springs from the Battleship Rock parking area.
Ojo Santa Fe
Location: 242 Los Pinos Rd, Santa Fe
Price: starting at $45/person, includes locker and towel
Kid Friendly: ages 13 and younger are not allowed in soaking areas, only lodging and dining, 13-17 can soak with someone 18+, 18+ has access everywhere
What to bring/tips:
If you’re an animal lover, you can’t miss the puppy patch and silkie chickens.
Best known for:
Ojo is peaceful, relaxing, and offers soaking pools and a saltwater pool. They also have a spa, sauna, lodging, a restaurant, activities, and with reservations, you can soak privately.
☀️ ☀️ Check out our Kid-Friendly Guide to Santa Fe if you venture up north! ☀️ ☀️
Spence Hot Springs
Location: 55 miles north of Albuquerque, off Hwy 4
Price: no fee
Kid Friendly: yes
What to bring/tips:
There is a paved parking area, but it only accommodates seven vehicles. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes; there is no nudity allowed.
Best known for:
While the water is lukewarm, it makes it nice for a day that isn’t too chilly. A short hike will get you there from the trailhead.
Ten Thousand Waves
Location: 21 Ten Thousand Waves Way, Santa Fe
Price: starting at $62/person, but they offer memberships and discounts
Kid Friendly: yes, with some restrictions
What to bring/tips:
A swimsuit. They have a long list of items they offer at no charge, including a locker, kimono, sandals, towels, and some hygiene items.
Best known for:
Ten Thousand Waves has a spa and lodging, as well as a Japanese restaurant on site that offers Happy Hour every day except Tuesdays.
Bonus Option in Town: Betty’s Bath & Day Spa
Location: 1853 Candelaria NW, Albuquerque
Price: starts at $30/30 mins, book online, they accommodate groups of up to 8
Kids Allowed: no, 18+ only
What to bring/tips:
Fill out the required forms online via their website, or arrive early to complete them.
Best known for:
Not a hot spring, but for an easy soak in the metro area, Betty’s has outdoor saltwater hot tubs. Betty’s is open every day and also provides spa services, including facials, massages, and wraps. They provide a locker, robe, sandals, and a seasonal refreshment.
If pampering yourself at home is more your speed, there are some great ideas here.
