Laguna Pueblo Springs
Laguna Pueblo Springs flow at 80 degrees Fahrenheit on Laguna Pueblo tribal land in Cibola County, New Mexico, with exceptionally high dissolved solids including 9,100 mg/L sodium and 9,000 mg/L chloride. At 5,377 feet elevation with roadside access just 14 meters from the road, these are among the most mineralized thermal springs in the state.
The springs surface on the same broad plateau as the nearby Laguna Pueblo Seeps, in the mesa country of west-central New Mexico. Exposed sedimentary formations and sparse desert scrub define the landscape at 5,377 feet. The Rio San Jose flows through the area, providing a narrow riparian corridor amid the arid terrain. Annual precipitation of 9.2 inches and snowfall of 9.7 inches sustain only drought-adapted vegetation across the open tribal lands.
This site is on Laguna Pueblo tribal land where public access status is unknown. Obtain permission from Laguna Pueblo tribal authorities before visiting. The extremely high mineral content (total dissolved solids likely exceeding 20,000 mg/L) means this water is not suitable for drinking. The roadside location makes physical access straightforward if permission is granted.
Laguna Pueblo has occupied this region since before European contact, and the springs likely held significance for the pueblo's communities. The extreme mineral concentration, particularly the sodium and chloride levels, suggests deep circulation through evaporite-bearing formations. The springs appear in the 1980 NOAA thermal compilation. USGS measurements record 14 degrees Celsius, notably below the surface temperature of 80 degrees, which may reflect different sampling points.
The water at Laguna Pueblo Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).
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Laguna Pueblo Springs sits at 5,377 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 22% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Laguna Pueblo Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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