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Ojo Caliente is an unincorporated community in northern New Mexico famous for its hot springs. It’s located between Española and Taos, and not too far from Santa Fe.
Introduction to Ojo Caliente
The hot springs at Ojo Caliente have been in use since long before the first Europeans arrived in the area. The Tewa people believed they could access the underworld through the springs, and it’s thought that early Spanish explorers, including Francisco Coronado (1510-1554), soaked in the waters.
The area was first settled around 1735 by Genízaro (detribalized Native Americans) families, and the Spanish government gave them a land grant in 1754. A fort sprung up by 1766 effectively imprisoning any settlers who attempted to leave. The town was abandoned by 1779 and resettled by 18 families in 1790.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa
In 1868, Taos native Antonio Joseph built a bathhouse, making the hot springs at Ojo Caliente one of the first natural health resorts in the country. Frank Mauro purchased the springs in 1932 and it remained in his family for three generations.
The Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa continues to operate the hot springs today. They provide accommodation in beautiful rooms and suites, serve food and drinks in their restaurant and lounge, and offer activities such as yoga, hiking, mountain biking, and birding.
Day Pass
If you’re on a limited budget or don’t have enough time to stay for a few days, you can purchase a day pass. We spent a half day there and enjoyed our time in the pools very much. We left extremely relaxed and would highly recommend spending at least a day there.
A day pass costs US$45 from Monday through Thursday and US$65 from Friday through Sunday (as of January 2025). It provides access to the public mineral pools, mud pool, steam room, and sauna. Soaking hours are 10am to 10pm for all day guests, and no children under 13 are admitted. Rates include a towel and locker.
Artesian Restaurant
Before we soaked in the pools, we had lunch at the Artesian Restaurant. I had the Frito pie which was delicious. Prices are reasonable.
