Manby Hot Springs

What is the location of Manby Hot Springs?

Manby Hot Springs is located near Arroyo Hondo in the state of New Mexico. The hot springs sit on the east bank of the Rio Grande, approximately 12 miles from the city of Taos. The geographic coordinates of Manby Hot Springs are 36.51333° N latitude and -105.72556° W longitude, which correspond to 36°30′48″ N and 105°43′32″ W in degrees, minutes, and seconds. The springs are positioned within a rugged river canyon, making them geographically distinct among New Mexico’s geothermal features.

What is the access type of Manby Hot Springs?

The access type of Manby Hot Springs is primitive and restricted to non-vehicular methods. Legal access is limited to either floating the Rio Grande by watercraft or walking along a fisherman’s trail that parallels the river. Previous access through a private riverside trail on Tune Drive is no longer officially permitted. The springs are not accessible by vehicle, and the nearest parking area lies on private land under easement, which may no longer be accessible to the public.

What is the temperature of Manby Hot Springs?

The temperature of Manby Hot Springs ranges from 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, equivalent to 37 to 38 degrees Celsius. This thermal range provides a warm soaking experience suitable for relaxation and hydrotherapy. The consistent geothermal heat emerges from natural underground sources and maintains stable pool temperatures throughout the year.

What are the pool characteristics of Manby Hot Springs?

The pools at Manby Hot Springs are primitive and rock-lined with sandy bottoms. The hot springs contain at least three separate soaking pools, each formed by natural rock formations and hand-stacked stone walls. The main pool reaches a depth of several feet, allowing for partial submersion and prolonged soaking. The pool structures reflect minimal human modification, preserving the natural integrity of the geothermal site.

What is the water composition of Manby Hot Springs?

The water composition of Manby Hot Springs consists of mineral water. The geothermal discharge carries dissolved minerals from subsurface layers, contributing to the therapeutic properties commonly associated with natural hot springs. The exact mineral content is not specified, but the classification as mineral water indicates the presence of elements beneficial for skin and muscular health.

What facilities are available at Manby Hot Springs?

The facilities at Manby Hot Springs include the ruins of a former bathhouse and several cabins. These remnants are historical structures that offer insight into the area’s earlier development as a rustic spa destination. No modern amenities are present, reinforcing the site’s primitive and undeveloped character.

What are the directions to reach Manby Hot Springs?

The directions to reach Manby Hot Springs involve either floating down the Rio Grande or walking a river-adjacent fisherman’s trail. Legal access is restricted to these two methods due to private property boundaries. The previously used access route via Tune Drive is no longer sanctioned, and the current parking area lies on private land with uncertain public availability.

What is the website reference for Manby Hot Springs?

The website reference for Manby Hot Springs is available at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manby_Hot_Springs. This source provides additional historical and geographical context related to the site.

What are the nearby attractions to Manby Hot Springs?

The nearby attractions to Manby Hot Springs include the Rio Grande Gorge. This geological feature surrounds the hot springs and offers scenic views, hiking opportunities, and wildlife observation. The gorge’s proximity enhances the natural appeal of the hot springs and contributes to the area's ecological significance.