Get deep into Gila National Forest.
This is the truly remote, but rewarding hot spring!
Challenging Trail
There are several geothermal springs gushing in Gila National Forest, New Mexico.
I visited a relatively challenging hot spring that needed around 18-mile trekking for the round trip.
It was as far as Jordan Hot Springs, but the trail was in a worse condition.
The trail branches from the main path at the signpost TRAIL NOT MAINTAINED AND DANGEROUS, and walking along the mountain stream continues.
Few hikers were seen in the route.
Prepare not to get lost in the mountains.
I carried a tent, sleeping bag, water cleaner, sufficient food, terrain map, and GPS application just to make sure.
The color of the Turkey Creek was apparently different from ordinary rivers, which meant that quite a lot of geothermal water got mixed.
Along the mountain stream, sometimes I climbed massive rocks and got into deep water.
Plunge Basin
Around the sources of hot springs, the water level of the stream was low.
Instead, there were several orange-tan colored geothermal pools in the riverside.
The water temperature was extremely hot at 167 degrees F.
The amount of the river water gradually increased due to the hot water gushing.
At the lowermost point of the geothermal area, there was a plunge basin around seven-foot depth.
The water temperature of the river went up to 109 degrees F, which made it possible to soak comfortably.
What a wonderful place!
The plenty of hot water made the entire pool clean.
Turkey Creek Hot Springs would be one of the truly remote hot springs.
Such wonderful place exists unbeknown to most people.
Summary
Turkey Creek Hot Springs, Gila National Forest, New Mexico, U.S.
Rating:
Tips
To me the best hot spring in New Mexico.
- Walk-in: Yes
- Lodging: No (Wild Camping Available)