Spring

Cibola County County, New Mexico · Near Laguna
34.8470°N, 107.0910°W · 5,526 ft
76°F 5,526 ft Unknown Short Walk DESG
Spring
File:M 3410716 nw 13 060 20200516.tif — public domain

This unnamed thermal spring on Laguna Pueblo tribal land produces 76°F water at 5,526 feet elevation in Cibola County, roughly 18 degrees above the local ambient air temperature. Public access status is unknown, and the spring falls under tribal management. It lies about 594 meters from the nearest road. Water chemistry reveals extremely high mineralization, with chloride at 10,000 mg/L and sodium at 9,400 mg/L.

The spring occupies high desert terrain on the Laguna Pueblo reservation near the village of Laguna, west of Albuquerque. The landscape consists of sandstone mesas, juniper-dotted slopes, and dry washes typical of the Rio San Jose watershed. Annual precipitation is scant at 9.2 inches with 9.7 inches of snow. Volcanic formations and sedimentary outcrops characterize the surrounding geology, and the spring likely surfaces along a fault contact in the underlying bedrock.

History of Spring

This spring lies within the boundaries of Laguna Pueblo, one of the 19 pueblos of New Mexico, established long before Spanish contact in the 16th century. No public documentation describes the spring's specific cultural significance or historical use. As a feature on tribal sovereign land, its management falls entirely under Laguna Pueblo governance. The spring has no known history of commercial development.

This spring is on Laguna Pueblo tribal land. Visitors must obtain explicit permission from the Pueblo of Laguna before any attempt to visit. Trespassing on tribal land is a federal offense. Contact Laguna Pueblo's governor's office for current access policies. Do not assume entry is permitted. Respect all posted boundaries and tribal regulations. Photography and sample collection are typically prohibited on pueblo lands without authorization.

Monthly Climate
34°
Jan
41°
Feb
51°
Mar
58°
Apr
66°
May
79°
Jun
79°
Jul
77°
Aug
70°
Sep
58°
Oct
46°
Nov
35°
Dec
Annual Precip: 9.2 in Annual Snow: 9.7 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 34°F · Water 76°F · +42° contrast
December Air 35°F · Water 76°F · +41° contrast
February Air 41°F · Water 76°F · +35° contrast
January offers 45°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 56.3°F (13.5°C) Measured Apr 22, 1975
Water Chemistry Sampled 1975-04-22

The water at Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 8.3). 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).

pH 8.3 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 140 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 160 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 9,400 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 6,200 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 10,000 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: SOUTH GARCIA SE 7.5 · PP 492: 2.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: SOCORRO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Spring?
Spring has a water temperature of 76°F (24°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Spring located?
Spring is located in Cibola County, New Mexico at 5,526 feet elevation, near Laguna. Coordinates: 34.8470°N, 107.0910°W.
How do I get to Spring?
Spring has Short Walk road access (0.4 mi from the road).
Is Spring free to visit?
Spring has Unknown access. It is managed by DESG.
What minerals are in the water at Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Spring?
Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Spring crowded?
Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Spring?
Essentials for Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
76°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 76°F (24°C)
Avg Air Temp 58°F
Above Ambient +18°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Unknown
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.4 mi
Land
Ownership DESG
Agency DESG
Designation Tribal Land
Unit Laguna Pueblo
Manager TRIB
Protection 4 - No known protection