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Six miles outside Las Vegas, New Mexico, tucked away along the Gallinas Creek and near the historic Montezuma Castle Resort, the Montezuma Hot Springs is sure to provide you with a healing and relaxing getaway. The pools offer a variety of temperatures and experiences, and the geothermal springs are free and easy to access.

History

Originally used by Native Americans in the area for healing war wounds, the Montezuma Hot Springs later became one of the most popular amenities of nearby hotels. Originally the site of a U.S. Army hospital, The Adobe Hotel, The Hot Springs Hotel, and finally, The Montezuma Hotel, all took full advantage of the mineral water in the mid-to-late 1800s.

Image of a cube pool at the Montezuma Hot Springs in Las Vegas, New Mexico
With multiple pools to soak in, you’ll be able to spend an entire day at Montezuma Hot Springs. Photo by: Birdie Jaworski

It is even reported that outlaws Jesse James and Billy the Kid visited the hot springs during this time.

Today, The Montezuma Hotel now serves as the location of the Armand Hammer United World College of the American West, but the hot springs and soaking pools remain in good condition for tourists and visitors. The springs are located on private property, but they are accessible to the public and free.

Hot Springs

Three different soaking areas each offer three man-made, rock, and cement-lined soaking pools that range in temperature from about 95°F to 120°F. Their depths and diameters also range in size.

Image of an undeveloped geothermal pool at Montezuma Hot Springs in New Mexico
There are multiple pools of varying sizes and temperatures available to visitors. Photo by: Birdie Jaworski

While many of the soaking pools are small and cannot fit more than a couple of people, others are large enough to have made a name for themselves. “The Lobster Pot” pool is the hottest, at about 120°F, “Africa” is well-known for its shape that resembles the continent, and “The Cube” can be found near an old bathhouse.

While these springs are not considered the most comfortable or modern, the variety of soaking pools and easy, free access makes this site very popular.  When planning your visit, keep in mind that only day use of the hot springs pools is allowed and there are no restrooms or lodging facilities available.

Getting There

Just a short walk off of Highway 65, you will encounter a free parking lot, as well as numerous soaking pools with great views and rich history.

Starting in Las Vegas, New Mexico

  1. Drive down State Route 65 for around 12 minutes.
  2. You will see the parking lot and hot springs just off the highway on the right.
Montezuma Hot Springs California
Montezuma Hot Springs, New Mexico. Photo by: Birdie Jaworski

Details

Address: 400 NM Hwy 65, Las Vegas, NM 87701

Phone: 505-454-4288

Season: Year-Round | 5 AM – 12 AM

GPS: 35.6539311 W -105.2916769 N

Website: visitlasvegasnm.com…