Need a peaceful day trip or weekend escape in Northern New Mexico? Head to Jemez Springs! I’ve visited Jemez Springs a few times when I needed to truly slow down, and every time it feels like a reset button. From soaking in natural hot springs to hiking red rock canyons and wandering through quiet art galleries, this little town has a special way of restoring your energy. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure or just want to relax and breathe in mountain air, you’ll find the perfect mix of peace and beauty here.
Best Time to Visit
In my experience, April through October is the ideal time to visit. The weather’s pleasant, the trails are open, and the hot springs feel amazing after a day of hiking. I’ve done a fall drive through the Jemez Mountains when the leaves were changing—it’s absolutely stunning. Spring brings wildflowers and clear skies, while summer is perfect for dipping into the mineral pools or exploring the riverside trails.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: I always recommend driving if you can. From Albuquerque, it’s about 1.5 hours, and 2 hours from Santa Fe, along NM-4. Honestly, the drive through the Jemez Mountains is half the experience—it’s scenic, winding, and full of photo-worthy stops.
- By Bus: Public transit is pretty limited out here, so I’d suggest driving yourself or booking a private shuttle. That way, you can explore at your own pace.
- By Train: Amtrak does stop in Albuquerque, which is the closest major hub. From there, I usually rent a car—it’s an easy and beautiful drive up into the mountains.
Where to Stay
- Giggling Star – I stayed here once and instantly fell in love with the peaceful garden and cheerful vibe. The rooms are cozy, colorful, and full of local charm—it feels like you’re staying in someone’s lovingly tended home.
- Jemez Hot Springs Lodging – If soaking in mineral pools is on your list (and it should be!), staying here makes it super easy. I loved waking up and heading straight to the hot springs—it was the perfect way to start and end the day.
- Cañon del Rio Retreat and Spa – This spot feels like a true escape. I’ve visited for a massage and wandered the grounds—between the adobe-style architecture, riverside views, and relaxing atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind and reconnect.
Best Things to Do
1. Soak in Tranquility at Jemez Hot Springs
Jemez Hot Springs (formerly known as Giggling Hot Springs) is a series of natural hot springs originated in the Valles Caldera National Preserve about 17 miles north. Jemez Springs are hikers’ delight, they can enjoy magnificent waterfalls and soothing comforting hot springs after a long hike up the mountain. A series of connected trails will take them to other hot springs such as Spence Hot Springs near Soda Dam, McCauley Hot Springs close to Battleship Rock, and San Antonio Hot Springs in the Santa Fe National Forest. More luxurious hot springs, spas and bath houses in Jemez Springs offer cleaner, more comfortable environment in which to soak. It can be under a starry sky or combined with an herbal wrap or massage. Jemez Springs’ facilities have it all.
40 Abousleman Loop, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-9175
2. Explore Wild Beauty at Valles Caldera National Preserve
Valles Caldera, also known as Jemez Caldera, is a 13.7-mile wide extinct volcanic caldera in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, near the town of Jemez Springs. The caldera was formed as the result of a spectacular volcanic eruption about 1.25 million years ago. The Valles Caldera National Preserve was established to protect this magnificent natural treasure. The area is full of scattered hot springs, streams, fumaroles, natural gases and volcanic domes. The highest point is Redondo Peak, a 11,253-foot high lava dome. The bottom of the caldera also has several grass valleys such as Valle Grande, the largest and the only one accessible by a paved road. Visitors can enjoy miles of ranch roads, livestock trails and game trails. There is a network of trails designated for horse riding.
Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-4100 x3
If you are traveling with kids:
3. Hike and Marvel Through the Jemez Mountains
The Jemez Mountains is a group of mountains of volcanic origin in Rio Arriba, Sandoval, and Los Alamos counties, New Mexico, to the north of the Albuquerque Basin in the Rio Grande rift. Pueblo Indian tribes have lived in the Jemez Mountains long before the Spanish arrived in New Mexico. They were the Towa-speaking Jemez people, the Keres-speaking Keresan Indians, and the Tewa-speaking Tewa Indians. The highest point is Chicoma Mountain at 11,561 feet. The town of Los Alamos and Los Alamos National Laboratory are located at the eastern side of the range and the town of Jemez Springs is to the west. The only ski area nearby is Pajarito Mountain Ski Area. The main road that provides access to the mountains is the New Mexico State Highway 4.
New Mexico
4. Step Back in Time at the Jemez Historic Site
The Jemez Historic Site, also known as Jemez State Monument, is a historic site in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, on New Mexico State Road 4. The site was created to mark and preserve the archaeological remains of Gíusewa Pueblo, the 16th-century Native American village and San José de los Jémez, the 17th-century Spanish colonial mission. The site is considered an important ancestral site of the Jémez Pueblo people who live in the area. The Jemez Historic Site is located near the village of Jemez Springs, in the Jemez River valley, not far from the mouth of Church Canyon. The six-acre site includes remains of a Native American pueblo and a Spanish mission compound. The main features of the mission are the partially preserved walls of the church, one of the largest 17th-century mission churches in the state. The church walls are built of limestone, with some volcanic tuff and sandstone. The walls are between 6 and 7 feet thick at their bases. Next to the mission are the remains of a fairly large pueblo, with about 200 rooms in five blocks and two kivas. Parts of the pueblo are open to visitors.
18160 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-3530
5. Cruise Scenic Views Along the Jemez Trail National Scenic Byway
The Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway is one of eight official byways in New Mexico. This 132-mile loop is good for most vehicles and offers a convenient and comfortable way to see the best of Northern New Mexico in one day. Start going west from Los Alamos on State Road 501 and turn onto State Road 4 toward Jemez Springs, through Bandelier National Monument. The road climbs up more than 1,000 feet through lush, dense forest, reaching the top at an elevation of 9,000 feet. The incredible views of Valles Caldera will open up in front of you. Continue on to Jemez Falls campground. The easy 1/4-mile hiking trail runs down to a beautiful waterfall. As you return to State Road 4, you will pass by the majestic Battleship Rock on your left. To visit McCauley Warm Springs, you will have to take short but steep, hike. As you keep driving, you will pass by Soda Dam, Jemez State Monument, the Gilman Tunnels, Ponderosa Valley Vineyard and red rocks of Jemez Pueblo.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. If You Crave Dramatic Landscapes, Discover Battleship Rock
Battleship Rock is a 200-foot tall natural formation near Jemez Spring, New Mexico. It is formed of welded volcanic ash. Hiking to the top of Battleship Rock is forbidden for safety reasons. The picnic area is located at 6760 feet. It is open for day use only, from sunrise to sunset. It offers one round wooded shelter with tables and fire grills, 33 picnic shelters with tables and grills, chemical toilets and drinking water. Hikers should be aware that there are both poison ivy and water hemlocks in the area, which is a popular destination not only for picnicking and hiking but also for fishing on San Antonio River. There is a trail that leads to McCauley Warm Springs, and a footpath at the north end of the picnic area which leads to Hidden Falls.
Camp Shaver Ln, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
7. Adventure Awaits in the Jemez National Recreation Area
Jemez National Recreation Area is located in Santa Fe National Forest, covering 57,650 acres and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service's Jemez Ranger District. The Forest Service promotes the area for fishing, camping, rock climbing, hunting and hiking. The area has been traditionally used by Jemez Pueblo, so government is obliged to consult the native people on matters concerning cultural and religious sites. They may close areas for traditional uses. Mining is prohibited, except on already existing claims. Part of the area that covers about 9,350 acres is in private hands. The national recreation area is adjacent to Valles Caldera National Preserve. Jemez National Recreation Area was established in 1993
Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-3535
8. Get Inspired at the Jemez Fine Art Gallery
Jemez Fine Art Gallery in Jemez Springs, New Mexico is a collective of nine local artists living and working in Jemez Mountains. The gallery was established by Tom and Joann Vandenberg. Tom was making wooden birdhouses as a hobby and showing them at several fairs in the valley. He finally set up a stand next to the old post office, across the street from the Jemez Fine Arts Gallery. That inspired Tom and Joann to form a similar co-op with other artisans in the area. They rented the old post office building in the fall of 2009 and after extensive renovations opened the gallery in 2011. There were eight original members of the Jemez Artisans. The number increased since to nine, with different artists participating in the coop. All artists are responsible for running the gallery. The artifacts on display include fabric arts, jewelry, ceramics, digital paintings, photography, fine woodwork, recycled media art, stained and fused glass and tie-dye.
17346 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-3340
9. If You Love Natural Wonders, Visit Soda Dam Hot Spring
The Soda Dam Hot Spring is a must-visit attraction at Jemez Springs. It is best known for its unusual and unique geological features which are a result of a 7,000-year-old hot spring deposit. The 50-foot tall and 300-foot wide dam is composed of travertine and calcium carbonate. There is a serene river that courses through the dam, which resulted in one of the dam’s most picturesque locations, the natural soda bridge situated above the water as well as a beautiful waterfall. The Jemez Soda Dam is easily accessible as it is situated along State Route 4 and offers parking along the shoulder of the highway. Traverse the dam’s façade and snap photos to commemorate your trip at this public and free natural attraction.
19219 NM-4, Jemez Springs, New Mexico 87025
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Hike the trails in Jemez Falls and Battleship Rock – One of my favorite hikes, the trails at Jemez Falls and Battleship Rock offer breathtaking views of waterfalls, towering rock formations, and lush forests. It’s perfect for nature lovers like me who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
- Discover art at local galleries – If you’re into art, you’ll love browsing through vibrant southwestern art at the welcoming galleries throughout Jemez Springs. It’s a great way to take home a piece of local culture!
Where to Eat
- Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon – This rustic restaurant serves up delicious New Mexican cuisine in a historic 1940s building. It’s the perfect place for a hearty meal after a day of exploring.
- Highway 4 Coffee – If you need a pick-me-up, this is the place for locally roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and sandwiches. I love stopping here for a quick bite!
- Jemez Stage Stop – Known for their hearty breakfast burritos and green chile dishes, this casual café is a great spot for a laid-back meal with a local touch.
If you are interested in local events:
- Jemez Red Rocks Arts & Crafts Fair (May) – A must-visit event for art lovers, the arts and crafts fair celebrates local artists with handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and paintings. It’s a great way to see the creative side of Jemez Springs!
- Jemez Mountain Trail Sale (October) – This 26-mile-long yard sale is a unique event. You can find local vendors selling everything from food to crafts along the scenic Jemez Mountain Trail.
- Christmas Eve Farolito Walk (December) – A magical experience walking through town lit by hundreds of traditional luminarias. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit in Jemez Springs!
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Jemez Springs, New Mexico:
- Jemez Falls (15–20 min) – A short hike leads you to one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in the Jemez Mountains. The views are absolutely stunning!
- Valles Caldera National Preserve (25–30 min) – I love exploring the volcanic caldera at Valles Caldera. It’s a 13-mile-wide area full of wildlife and hiking trails, offering an incredible experience in nature.
- Fenton Lake State Park (20–25 min) – Whether you’re into fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the lake, Fenton Lake State Park is a serene spot surrounded by forested mountains.
- Battleship Rock (10–15 min) – This dramatic rock formation is perfect for quick hikes, picnics, and soaking in the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great spot to unwind.
- Soda Dam (5–10 min) – Soda Dam is a natural mineral bridge formed by geothermal activity along Highway 4. It’s one of those unique natural wonders you won’t want to miss.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Jemez Springs located?
- Jemez Springs is a village in Sandoval County, New Mexico, named after the nearby Pueblo of Jemez. It’s a peaceful and scenic destination in the heart of New Mexico.
- What historic sites can visitors explore in Jemez Springs?
- The village is home to the Jemez State Monument, also known as the Jemez Historic Site. This site preserves the archaeological remains of the Gíusewa Pueblo, a 16th-century Native American village, and San José de los Jémez, a 17th-century Spanish colonial mission.
- Are there any hot springs in Jemez Springs?
- Yes! Jemez Springs is famous for its popular hot springs, including the Jemez Hot Spring located in the Valles Caldera National Preserve.
- What is Valles Caldera?
- Valles Caldera, also known as Jemez Caldera, is a 13.7-mile-wide extinct volcanic caldera located in the Jemez Mountains. It’s a stunning natural area full of hiking trails and wildlife.
- What is the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway?
- The Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway is a 132-mile loop offering a convenient and scenic route to explore the best of Northern New Mexico in a single day.
Plan Your Trip