San Francisco Hot Springs #250 Trail, NM

Overview
The San Francisco Hot Springs Trail is a moderately challenging 3+ mile out-and-back hiking trail located in the Gila National Forest of southwestern New Mexico. The trailhead is situated along US Highway 180, between mile markers 58 and 59, south of the town of Glenwood


Hike
The trail winds through a typical New Mexico desert landscape of rolling hills and sparse vegetation before descending into a lush riparian area along the San Francisco River. The trail is gradual and easy until reaching the gate. After that, it can become steep and rocky in places. Once at the bottom, the trail may change yearly based on flooding and debris. I found no hot springs on the descending side of the river.After crossing the San Francisco River, I found one rock-lined "Warm Spring" that would need to be dug out before soaking. Supposedly, there is a series of primitive hot springs ranging from 100 to 120°F, depending on the season. The hot springs are located both along the river and inland, with the inland spring featuring a mud bottom. Be prepared to dig out the hot springs if they have been washed out by the river.

History
Historically, this area was part of the ancestral homelands of the Apache and Pueblo peoples

Camping
Overnight camping is prohibited, but there is BLM land nearby for camping.

2024-05-12 The_Eagle