Montezuma Hot Springs

## Overview Montezuma Hot Springs is a collection of free, naturally heated soaking pools located near the village of Montezuma, New Mexico, just a few miles northwest of Las Vegas, NM. Nestled at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, these geothermal springs have been cherished for centuries. Long before European settlers arrived, the area's hot springs were used by Native American peoples — particularly the Puebloan tribes — who considered the waters sacred and healing. In the late 19th century, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway built a grand resort hotel nearby (known as "Montezuma Castle") to capitalize on the therapeutic reputation of the springs. That striking Romanesque Revival building, which has undergone multiple incarnations, now serves as the centerpiece of the United World College of the American West campus. The springs themselves produce naturally heated water at temperatures that can vary from warm to quite hot, depending on the specific pool and recent conditions. Multiple stone-and-concrete soaking pools of varying sizes and temperatures sit along the banks of the Gallinas River, allowing visitors to find a pool that suits their comfort level. The mineral-rich waters have historically been valued for their reported therapeutic properties, and the springs have served as a communal bathing destination for generations of locals and travelers alike. ## Directions 1. From Las Vegas, New Mexico, head northwest on NM-65 (Hot Springs Boulevard / Mills Avenue) toward the village of Montezuma. 2. Continue on NM-65 for approximately 5 to 6 miles. You will pass through scenic canyon terrain along the Gallinas River. 3. As you approach the United World College campus, look for a small parking area on the left (south) side of the road near the river, before you reach the main college entrance. 4. The hot springs pools are located along the riverbank, a short walk from the parking area. 5. GPS coordinates: 35.6536, -105.2831. *Note: The springs are on land associated with the United World College. Access policies may change, so it is advisable to check for any posted signs or current access information before visiting.* ## What to Expect Visitors will find a series of rustic, open-air soaking pools constructed from stone and concrete, arranged along the banks of the Gallinas River. The pools vary in temperature — some are comfortably warm while others can be quite hot — so it's worth testing the water before settling in. The setting is beautiful, with cottonwood trees lining the river and views of the surrounding mountains and the historic Montezuma Castle building perched on the hillside above. The springs are free to use and are clothing-optional by local custom, though practices can vary depending on who else is visiting. There are no formal facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, or lifeguards. The area can be muddy or slippery, especially near the river, so sturdy footwear for the walk in is recommended. The springs are accessible year-round, and soaking during cooler months — with steam rising off the pools against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains — can be a particularly memorable experience. The site tends to be busiest on weekends and holidays. Visitors are encouraged to leave no trace and respect the space, as the springs' continued public access depends on the goodwill of the surrounding community and the United World College.