Last updated: April 23, 2025
Thing to Do
Take a Self-Guided Geology Tour of Sulphur Springs
NPS/Irene Owsley
This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve.
As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.
Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service). Tour takes 1-2 hours to complete.
As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.
Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service). Tour takes 1-2 hours to complete.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed at Sulphur Springs.
Activity Fee
Yes
Park entrance fees apply.
Location
Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs is an active geothermal area near the western boundary of Valles Caldera National Preserve. It is accessed from the National Park Service boundary gate on Forest Road 105.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Sulphur Springs is open to visitation year-round, but Forest Road 105 can become impassable in winter weather. Please call the park for current road conditions before attempting to drive to the trailhead in the winter.
Time of Day
Day
The Sulphur Creek Trail, which leads to Sulphur Springs, is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year.
Accessibility Information
The Sulphur Creek Trail, which leads to Sulphur Springs, is unpaved. The pedestrian gate at the trailhead is 28" wide. Visitors seeking additional accommodation to access this trail may contact the park at least 24 hours in advance to arrange entry and exit assistance from a park ranger.