Hike to Sulphur Springs

The Sulphur Springs area can be compared to Yellowstone for its similar geothermal features.

NPS/D. Kish

A 0.3-mile (0.5 km) walk along a forested road (VC08) leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a site bubbling with geothermal features like mudpots and fumaroles. This area was once used for sulfur mining, geothermal energy exploration, and a hot springs health resort/spa. 

Elevation: 8,069 - 8,147 feet

Details

Duration

30-60 Minutes

Although it's a short walk to Sulphur Springs, visitors will likely want to spend time exploring the geothermal area on-foot to discover features like steam vents and mudpots.

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Sulphur Springs Trailhead

The Sulphur Springs Trailhead is at a locked iron gate marked VC08, about 2 miles from the junction of Sulphur Creek Road/Forest Road 105 and NM 4 at mile marker 27. There is a small dirt pull-out adjacent to the trailhead along Forest Road 105. Backcountry vehicle permit not required. Not suitable for oversized vehicles.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

This is one of the few areas that is accessible year-round at Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Time of Day

Day

Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Accessibility Information

The unpaved road that leads to Sulphur Springs is relatively flat. Service animals permitted.