Travel
4 Hot Spring Destinations for Your Next Road Trip
Interesting and unique spots across the US that you’ve never heard of but would love to visit.
For Those Who Love a Rustic Vibe
Did you know there’s a town in New Mexico named Truth or Consequences? Well, there is, and it’s home to one of the most active geothermal areas in the continental United States. The hot springs in this quaint and funky little town don’t have the distinctive sulphur smell that accompanies so many others.
Settlers originally discovered the area while travelling west in the late 1800s, and the downtown still has some of that western flair.
Located in the downtown ‘Hot Springs Bathhouse Historic and Commercial District‘, the spas and bathhouses of Truth or Consequences are central to its history. The region gained recognition as a health center at the turn of the century, and in the 1920s, ‘30s, and ‘40s motorists flocked to area resorts. They were told that soaking in these hot springs could cure “anything that ails you.”
The Hot Springs Bathhouse Historic and Commercial District of Truth or Consequences
Today, it’s home to about ten boutique hotels with private hot springs and a charming downtown area. Since the whole town rests upon a natural geothermal spring, most of the “baths” (ie. hotels and spas that rent access to their hot springs baths) in town offer paid walk-in service for $15 to $25 per hour. Try out a few, starting with Blackstone Hotsprings and Riverbend Hot Springs.
Blackstone Hotsprings
The area is also great for camping and hiking, but those with more luxurious tastes should consider staying a night or two in the Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa, a western-themed hotel with a wealth of modern amenities. For an upscale spa-like experience, Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa has hot springs baths at $30 per half hour. A more eclectic choice of accommodations is the Mexican-style Firewater Lodge, with private hot springs tubs. Stay in the Waterfall, Morning Glory, or Datura rooms.
Sierra Grande Lodge
You’ll be happy you stopped, no matter which direction you’re headed. If you want to learn more, a blog called Feed Me Dearly did a great post about their visit to Truth or Consequences.
Read more: 5 Essential Must-Haves for Your Next Road Trip and How to Have the Road Trip of a Lifetime
Alice Montgomery
Japan has been by far my best hot spring experience. Just go there and experience it for your selves. Really relaxing and just perfect.
Melani Kalev
Bucket list worthy material, awesome!
Henry Mcintosh
Added to the bucket list. Thanks!
Merry Robinson
So many amazing hot spring destinations. What gorgeous things hot springs are – beautiful and relaxing. I can’t even pick my favorite because they’re all so good. I want to see their breathtaking and gorgeous views and also enjoy a relaxing warm water. Thanks for this excellent post! 🙂
Rosemary Robles
Passing through we stopped at the Conundrum to take in the views. Right at sunset was amazing. Yes! there are a few steep hills, but it’s great exercise. It was a great hike with a wonderful view. We would definitely do it again. Definitely recommended!
Cornelia Green
Interesting list, thanks. All these Hot Springs are a must see. I’ve seen Conundrum Hot Springs and it’s indeed so peaceful and beautiful. Pictures turnout amazing. The over looks at the top give you some grand photo ops. It would be great to go there in spring, i think.
Helen Dark
I loved reading about your travel adventures. Makes me want to go book a trip to wherever you’re talking about now. I would love to do/visit pretty much all of the ones on the list – except getting near a dolphin. Almost envious of all the time you got to spend in those hot springs. Your travel experiences must have been sooo awesome.
xoxo,
Helen
Ashley Moore
Great article Hilary, thanks for sharing your experiences. I am gathering information because i’m planning on travelling alone this summer, and I am feeling pretty excited about it. I like your travels and the images in this article are stunning. You continue to inspire me with your stunning photos and epic adventures. You inspire me to be adventurous! 🙂
Lela House
Gorgeous pictures! And such a diversity. I’ve visited some hot springs before, but nothing like any of these. I have to travel more. I want to get that close to a whale. Thank you for always sharing with us your travel experiences. Great read.
Jenny Garett
Beautiful.. I haven’t been to any of these hot springs. I really love your shots. The sights from the mountains, trees, flowers and all the different aspects of nature just took my breath away. Time to update the bucket list, perhaps! 😀