Manby Hot Springs
Two pools at the ruins of an old stagecoach stop beside the Rio Grande, southwest of Arroyo Hondo. The walk in from the bridge is rocky and slow. Manby Hot Springs is on public land and free to visit. Expect a 2-mile walk each way.
| Access | Free, public land On BLM land on the east bank of the Rio Grande. Access now starts at the John Dunn Bridge, not the old private road; there is no official trailhead parking. |
|---|---|
| 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) |
| Water | 100 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Hike | 2 miles one way from John Dunn Bridge A rough angler's path south along the river with boulder scrambling; cross the Rio Hondo near its mouth. |
| Parking | Park near the John Dunn Bridge |
| Clothing | suits required |
| Dogs | Allowed (not in the pools) |
Best time to soak: Manby Hot Springs
From November to March average highs near Arroyo Hondo stay at 42 to 55 °F, with nights down to 12 °F. From November to March lows average 12 to 25 °F, so paths and decks around the pools can ice over and dirt roads may close.
| 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, 12 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.
More hot springs nearby
- Black Rock 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
How much does Manby Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Manby Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee; park near the John Dunn Bridge.
How hot is Manby Hot Springs?
100 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Is Manby Hot Springs clothing optional?
No, suits required.
How long is the hike to Manby Hot Springs?
2 miles one way from John Dunn Bridge. A rough angler's path south along the river with boulder scrambling; cross the Rio Hondo near its mouth.
Can you bring dogs to Manby Hot Springs?
Dogs are allowed, but keep them out of the soaking pools and on a leash where required.