Taos Hot Springs And Swimming Spots

Tucked deep within the dramatic walls of the Rio Grande Gorge, the Black Rock and Manby hot springs offer one of northern New Mexico's most rewarding and ruggedly beautiful natural soaking experiences. Managed as an unofficial BLM area, these geothermal pools demand a bit of effort to reach — steep canyon trails and unpaved roads are part of the journey — but visitors who make the descent are rewarded with something rare: crystal-clear, odorless hot spring water pooled in sandy-bottomed basins, framed by sweeping views of ancient basalt canyon walls and the cold, rushing Rio Grande just steps away.

The Setting: A Canyon Unlike Any Other

The Rio Grande Gorge near Taos is a geological wonder — a narrow slash in the high desert plateau where the river has carved hundreds of feet through layers of volcanic rock over millions of years. Down here at river level, the scale of the canyon becomes visceral. Rust-colored cliff walls loom overhead, ravens wheel on the thermals above, and the sound of the river fills the air. At Manby Hot Springs, the atmosphere takes on a layer of history: the crumbling ruins of an old stagecoach building stand nearby, lending the site a faintly mysterious, time-worn character that sets it apart from more manicured destinations. The combination of geological drama, historical intrigue, and geothermal warmth creates an atmosphere that feels genuinely wild.

The Water: Soaking in the Gorge

The hot springs themselves are a delight for the senses. The geothermal water is notably clear and free of the sulfuric odor common to many hot springs — you can peer straight down through the water to the sandy bottom of each pool. Temperatures vary by pool and by season, but the warmth seeps into tired muscles in a way that's deeply satisfying after the hike down. In warmer months, the Rio Grande flows close enough that you can cool off in the cold river current between soaks — a sharp, bracing contrast that will leave you feeling thoroughly alive. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions overall, with mild air temperatures balancing the heat of the pools. Summer visits are entirely possible but can be intense, while winter access may be limited or closed by snow on the approach roads.

Practical

Directions to Taos Hot Springs and Swimming Spots Black Rock Hot Springs Black Rock Hot Springs is located near the banks of the Rio Grande at the bottom of a stunning canyon. The springs feature a sandy bottom with clear, 97-degree water and no sulfurous smell. Please note that the area may be flooded during high water, but visitors can cool off in the river when conditions allow. There is a small sandy beach on the east side of the bridge before crossing. Driving Directions: From Taos, head north on Route 64. Continue north on Route 522 toward the town of Arroyo Hondo. In Arroyo Hondo, at the bottom of the hill, turn southwest (left) onto County Road B005 (signed). This road is also known as Camino Del Medio, though it may not be marked with this name. Follow County Road B005 as it winds for approximately 1.4 miles. Turn west (right) onto the unsigned, unpaved County Road B007. Drive along County Road B007 for about 1.1 miles until you reach a bridge crossing the Rio Grande River. After crossing the bridge, park at the small parking area located at the end of the first switchback as you ascend the west side of the canyon. Trail Information: From the parking area, follow the trail downstream for approximately 10 minutes to reach the hot springs. Please note: Do not attempt to continue driving along the road on the west side of the canyon, as it is very long and often rough. Safety Note: Visitors are advised to travel in groups due to occasional reports of undesirable activity in the area. If you feel uncomfortable, consider visiting Manby Hot Springs instead. Coordinates: Latitude: 36.5283 Longitude: -105.7126 Google Maps Link Manby Hot Springs Manby Hot Springs features two pools with sandy bottoms located along the banks of the Rio Grande at the bottom of a canyon. One pool is easily visible upon arrival, while a smaller, potentially warmer pool is located behind the stone wall of an old building that once stood in the area. The springs are accessible via a gradual hike down an old stagecoach road. During high water, the area may be flooded, but visitors can enjoy cooling off in the river when conditions allow. Driving Directions: From Taos, head north on Route 64. Continue on Route 64 until you reach the Taos Airport. Across Route 64 from the airport, locate the signed "Tune Road." Turn north (right) onto Tune Road and follow it for approximately 4.2 miles. Do not take any turn-offs along the way. At the fork in the road, keep left and continue for about 0.5 miles to the parking area located at the edge of the canyon. Trail Information: From the parking area, follow the old wagon road that begins on the left side of the parking area. Hike approximately 0.5 miles down the gradual grade to reach the hot springs. Coordinates: Latitude: 36.5072 Longitude: -105.7229 Google Maps Link Additional Notes: Both hot springs are located in scenic areas with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande and surrounding canyon landscapes. Be mindful of weather conditions, as high water levels may impact accessibility. Always pack out any trash and respect the natural environment to preserve these beautiful locations for future visitors.

The hot springs are most easily accessed from the Taos area, with the charming town of Taos just a short drive away — a perfect base for exploring galleries, restaurants, and the historic Taos Pueblo. The small community of Arroyo Hondo sits even closer to the gorge. Santa Fe, roughly an hour and a half south, makes a viable launching point for a longer northern New Mexico road trip that pairs these springs with the region's rich cultural landscape.

These are unofficial, primitive sites with no facilities or management. Access involves driving on unsigned county roads and hiking on unmaintained trails. The pools may be flooded or inaccessible during high water on the Rio Grande. Always check current conditions locally before visiting.

Manby Hot Springs is named for its history as a stagecoach crossing, highlighting the area's role in early transportation and trade. Nearby Taos Pueblo showcases centuries of Native American heritage.

Practice Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering and respect the delicate ecosystem. Stay on trails to minimize erosion and protect native plant life.