Spend the Day in Jemez Springs: A One Day Itinerary

On August 12, 2023, I visited Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs on day 3 of a three day road trip from North Carolina to Colorado. I spent most of a day exploring the history, trails, and landscapes of this vibrant region. Jemez Pueblo is a federally recognized tribe and sovereign nation, and the area around Jemez Springs is rich with the cultural history and traditions of the Jemez (Walatowa) people. Here is how I spent a day in Jemez Springs.

First stop: Red Rock Trail and Walatow Slot Canyon
• Trailhead coordinates: 35.64507, -106.72576
(Park and pay at visitor center)
• Fee: $9.00/1 person; $7.00/2-4 people; $4.00/4 or more
• Hike length: 1.68mi (out and back)
• Ascent: 98ft
• Total Hike Time: 1h5m
• Surface: Well maintained trail
• Tink's difficulty rating: Easy

Second Stop: Gilman Tunnels
• Coordinates: 35.73122, -106.76062
(the above coords will take you to a parking area that can be used if the road is closed; if the road is open, just keep driving!)
• Fee: Free!
• Total drive time: 30 minutes out and back to NM4, accounting for stopping and taking photos
• Surface: paved road

Third Stop: Soda Dam Springs
• Coordinates: 35.79129, -106.68645
• Fee: Free!
• Length: roadside
• Drive time: this attraction is off the main route, so no additional time needed
• Surface: paved road

Fourth Stop: Spence Hot Spring
• Coordinates: 35.84948, -106.62974
• Fee: Free!
• Length: 0.72 miles (out and back)
• Ascent: 112ft
• Total time: 41 minutes (including time spent swimming)
• Surface: steep and somewhat rugged trail
• Tink's difficulty rating: easy to moderate

Additional attractions if you have the time:
• McCauley "Warm" Springs: 35.82002, -106.62726 (3.5 mile hike required to reach)
• Cerro Pelado Lookout Tower: 35.78427, -106.54923 (long drive on bumpy 4x4 road)
• Paliza Goblin Colony: 35.70890, -106.62739 (3 mile out and back hike)
• Jemez Falls: 35.81647, -106.60680 (0.8 mile hike if road is open)

For more information see the associated blog post here: https://adventurelikeagirl.com/2024/0...