The mineral rich waters of Riverbend Hot Springs have long been sacred to the Mimbres and Apache tribes of New Mexico, and have been rejuvenating and relaxing peace-seekers and warriors alike for several hundred years.

Visitors can now enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery in historic Truth or Consequences from just an hour to a relaxing stay overnight. Guests can enjoy spectacular views of the Rio Grande and Turtleback Mountain as they relax in the restorative waters.

Whether it’s a healing retreat or romantic getaway, Riverbend Hot Springs offers a refuge from the stress of everyday life with the only open-air hot springs along the Rio Grande, allowing guests to relax in amazing rock pools and breathe in fresh air while enjoying mountain views or starry nights. The therapeutic benefits of the mineral rich water continue to draw visitors seeking to de-stress, detox, or relieve pain.

The private pools at Riverbend Hot Springs are ideal for anyone looking for peace and privacy. The private pools are walled on all sides but one, which is open to a view of the riverside mountain. The new deluxe pools combine the uniquely shaped and comfortable fiberglass pools with the stunning views and gorgeous design that Riverbend is known for. Each one of the deluxe pools feature riverside curtains, an overhead shower, ceiling fans, and misters during the summer.

Each of the five pools that make up Riverbend's common pools feature a different temperature, typically ranging from 100 degrees to 108 degrees. This is caused by the water cascading from one pool to another. The pools are positioned around a shaded river deck and contain a cold shower, large shaded patio with lounge chairs, dining tables, mist fans during summer, and a barrel sauna. The river pier provides some of the most breathtaking vistas and is the best place to read or birdwatch.

The hottest three pools of Riverbend Hot Springs are known as "The Hot Minnow Baths" due to their unique history. Riverbend was just a bait shop along the river until 1990, started by the Pierce family more than seventy years ago. In 1988, the owners of Riverbend bought the bait shop, and then converted the shop in early 1990 into the hot springs that now exist today. Though the three upper pools have been reformed and covered in stone, they were once the tanks that contained minnows, crawdads, water dogs, and other live bait when the bait shop was in operation. The bait shop is now the bath house that surrounds The Hot Minnow Baths, with the exception of one wall.

Two riverside rock pools have been added to the hot springs during the past decade. These stone pools feature milder temperatures, ranging from 100 to 104 degrees, and are great choices for a detoxifying, longer soak. Situated just a few feet from the edge of the river, the pools are in a prime location for views of wildlife and Turtleback Mountain, or simply enjoying a starry night.

100 Austin Street, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, Phone: 575-894-7625, website, Map

More Things to Do in Santa Fe, Things to Do in New Mexico