Outdoors NearbyBlack Rock Hot Springs
Two rock-lined pools at the edge of the Rio Grande below the John Dunn Bridge, north of Taos. River level changes how deep and warm the pools are. You can soak at Black Rock Hot Springs for free. The pools are a 0.25-mile hike from John Dunn Bridge.
| Access | Free, public land On BLM land in Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, on the west bank of the Rio Grande just below the John Dunn Bridge. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring, 2 pools |
| Location | Arroyo Hondo, NM Managed by BLM Taos Field Office (Rio Grande del Norte NM) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Hike | 0.25 miles one way from John Dunn Bridge Cross the bridge to the west side and walk downstream about a quarter mile. |
| Clothing | suits required |
| Dogs | Allowed (not in the pools) |
Best time to soak: Black Rock Hot Springs
Hot water is most welcome on cold days. From November to March average highs around Arroyo Hondo stay at 42 to 55 °F, with nights down to 12 °F. With lows at 12 to 25 °F from November to March, bring warm layers for getting out of the water.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 42 °F | 12 °F | 2 |
| Feb | 46 °F | 19 °F | 2 |
| Mar | 55 °F | 25 °F | 3 |
| Apr | 63 °F | 31 °F | 2 |
| May | 73 °F | 37 °F | 3 |
| Jun | 84 °F | 47 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 87 °F | 53 °F | 4 |
| Aug | 84 °F | 51 °F | 6 |
| Sep | 78 °F | 45 °F | 4 |
| Oct | 67 °F | 32 °F | 3 |
| Nov | 53 °F | 22 °F | 2 |
| Dec | 42 °F | 14 °F | 3 |
More to do nearby
- Salto Del Agua Waterfall (waterfall, 10 mi)
- Taos Skating Rink (ice rink, 13 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
-
Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Other hot springs near Arroyo Hondo
- Manby Hot Springs Free
- Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Day pass
- Montezuma Hot Springs Free
- San Antonio Hot Springs Free
- Spence Hot Spring Free
- McCauley Warm Spring Free
- Jemez Hot Springs Day pass
- Jemez Springs Bath House Day pass
Waterfalls nearby
- Salto Del Agua Waterfall (10 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Is Black Rock Hot Springs free?
Yes. Black Rock Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
Is Black Rock Hot Springs clothing optional?
No, suits required.
How long is the hike to Black Rock Hot Springs?
0.25 miles one way from John Dunn Bridge. Cross the bridge to the west side and walk downstream about a quarter mile.
Can you bring dogs to Black Rock Hot Springs?
Dogs are allowed, but keep them out of the soaking pools and on a leash where required.