Ash Spring
Ash Spring surfaces at 72°F in Grant County, New Mexico, with USGS-measured temperature of 22°C. The water carries elevated sulfate at 110 mg/L and calcium at 71 mg/L, suggesting contact with gypsum-bearing rock formations. A short walk of 233 meters from the nearest road provides access to this mildly thermal spring at 5,800 feet elevation.
The spring emerges in the foothills northwest of Silver City, where the terrain transitions from high desert grassland into oak and juniper woodland. At 5,800 feet, the landscape features rocky canyon drainages and exposed volcanic and sedimentary formations characteristic of the Mogollon region. Annual rainfall of 12.1 inches falls mostly during the summer monsoon season, and 9.3 inches of snow dust the higher ground in winter. Views extend across dry arroyos toward the Pinos Altos Range.
Spring and fall provide the most comfortable hiking temperatures. The approach crosses uneven terrain without marked trails, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Silver City, roughly 15 miles away, serves as the nearest supply point with full services. No permits are currently known to be required. Carry water, as the spring water has not been tested for potability.
Ash Spring takes its name from the ash trees (likely Arizona ash or velvet ash) that commonly grow near perennial water sources in this part of the Southwest. The spring appears in the 1980 NOAA/NCEI thermal springs database and USGS water chemistry records. Detailed historical documentation is scarce, though springs in Grant County supplied water to mining operations during the late 1800s silver boom centered on Silver City.
The water at Ash Spring contains 332 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Ash Spring sits at 5,800 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Ash Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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