Ponce de Leon Hot Springs

Taos, NM

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Ponce de Leon Hot Springs

The remains of a onetime thriving hot-spring resort, long abandoned and suffering from neglect and abuse. Today, a natural pool and the remnants of a concrete pool offer bathing opportunities. Ponce de Leon was a thriving resort at one time; the immense pool and foundations bear quiet testimony to that. Today, however, all that’s left is the spring itself, which forms a small natural pool and then overflows into two cement pools. Depending upon the time of year, the uppermost pool generally makes for the best bath. One of the walls of the pool was bulldozed to discourage swimming at the old resort. Remember that this is not an isolated location, as there are many private residences nearby. Other hot springs and hot wells exist in the area, many of which are used by the households near Ponce de Leon. Be sure to obey all posted signs on the road, as well as at the springs. There have been several occasions when the springs were closed to public access. At one time Ponce de Leon was a rather elaborate resort, but all that remains are the ruins of the buildings and pools, and the hot spring itself.

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHot Springs
Nearby CityTaos
Length2 mi
Water TempThe hot-spring source is about 100 F; the pools are slightly cooler, averaging 95 to 98 F.
SeasonSummer and fall. Roads may be too muddy in winter and spring.
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