Unnamed Thermal Spring
This unnamed warm spring near Hurley in Grant County produces 72-degree Fahrenheit water with very low chloride at 9 mg/L, indicating fresh, lightly mineralized water. USGS measurements confirm 21.5 degrees Celsius. At just 12.2 degrees above ambient, the thermal signal is faint. A 683-meter walk from the nearest road leads to the spring at 5,520 feet elevation.
The spring emerges in the semi-arid grasslands and scattered juniper terrain of Grant County, east of the Gila River watershed and south of the Pinos Altos Range. At 5,520 feet, the landscape sits in the transition between Chihuahuan Desert grassland and pinon-juniper woodland. Annual precipitation of 11.2 inches and 7.4 inches of snow sustain bunch grasses and drought-tolerant shrubs. The Chino copper mine complex near Hurley has shaped the surrounding land use, with mining infrastructure visible across portions of the basin.
Cataloged in the 1980 NOAA/NCEI thermal springs inventory without a formal name. Grant County's thermal features relate to the extensive volcanic and tectonic history of the Mogollon-Datil volcanic field and associated faulting. No development, formal naming, or documented historical use appears in available records for this spring. The low mineral content distinguishes it from the more heavily mineralized thermal waters found elsewhere in the county.
This spring's 72-degree temperature provides minimal thermal contrast and limited soaking appeal except on the coldest winter days. The 683-meter walk crosses open terrain with no trail — use GPS navigation and wear sturdy boots. Iron Creek Campground in the Black Range, 24 km away off NM-152, provides a mountain camping base. Silver City, the nearest full-service town, sits about 15 miles west with supplies, lodging, and the gateway to the Gila Wilderness.
Is this spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Iron Creek Campground is easily accessible for campers and provides good facilitiesLocated in the Black Range Mountains off NM State Highway 152, starting at San Lorenzo and ending in Hillsboro. This is a mountain road with beautiful scenic sites at every curve. Watch for rocks on the road.