Unnamed Thermal Spring
An unnamed 73°F warm spring on Laguna Pueblo tribal land in Cibola County with among the highest dissolved mineral concentrations documented in New Mexico's thermal waters. Sodium and chloride each measure 11,000 mg/L, sulfate reaches 8,900 mg/L, and calcium sits at 560 mg/L — roughly one-third the salinity of seawater. USGS-confirmed temperature is 22°C with a pH of 7.3.
The spring emerges at 5,318 feet on the Laguna Pueblo reservation, approximately 395 feet from the nearest road. The landscape consists of broad, flat-topped mesas and shallow valleys carved from Mesozoic and Paleozoic sedimentary strata. Saltbush, greasewood, and other halophyte vegetation grow near the mineral-laden discharge. Annual precipitation averages 8.1 inches with 8.9 inches of snow, and the arid terrain supports only sparse desert scrub beyond the immediate spring area.
The Pueblo of Laguna has occupied this region since 1699 and maintains sovereignty over the land. The extreme mineral chemistry suggests the water circulates through Permian evaporite formations deep beneath the pueblo. No specific historical accounts of this spring's use have been identified in publicly available records. The spring lies on tribal land where access is governed by Laguna Pueblo authorities.
This spring is on Laguna Pueblo tribal land. Visitors must obtain permission from Laguna Pueblo tribal offices before entering. The water's extreme salinity makes it unsuitable for drinking or bathing. No public facilities exist at the site. Respect tribal sovereignty and posted regulations. The pueblo is accessible from Interstate 40, approximately 45 miles west of Albuquerque.
The water at This spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). 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).