Quick FactsOverview
About the Spring
Jordan Hot Spring, New Mexico is a free, undeveloped geothermal spring in the Gila Wilderness of Gila National Forest, Catron County, accessible only by a 13.9-mile round trip hike from the TJ Corral trailhead near Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Three natural rock-walled pools sit approximately 50 feet above the Middle Fork of the Gila River on the north canyon wall, at an elevation of around 4,850 feet. The largest pool is approximately 20 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep. Water temperature ranges from 94 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. There are no facilities at the spring.
The Gila Wilderness was designated in 1924 as the first federally protected wilderness area in the United States, championed by conservationist Aldo Leopold. The spring sits within this wilderness along the Middle Fork Gila River canyon, surrounded by multicolored volcanic cliffs, spires, and hoodoos. Clear water emerges from the canyon wall and forms a stream flowing into the river. Established campsites with stone fire rings exist nearby. The Continental Divide Trail passes through this section of the Gila Wilderness.
For visitors looking for hot springs near Silver City New Mexico in a true backcountry setting, this is one of the most rewarding and remote natural spring destinations in the southwestern United States.
Location & Access
Getting There
The spring is reached via the TJ Corral trailhead at the end of NM-15, approximately 43 miles north of Silver City via a winding mountain road that takes around 90 minutes to drive. From Silver City, take NM-15 North through Pinos Altos all the way to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument area; TJ Corral is approximately 1 mile from the Cliff Dwellings visitor center parking lot. Allow the full 90 minutes; the road is narrow and winding and not suited to large vehicles.
The primary hiking route follows Little Bear Canyon Trail (#729) from TJ Corral for approximately 4.25 miles through the canyon, then crosses the Middle Fork Gila River and follows the Middle Fork Trail (#157) upstream for approximately 2.5 miles to the spring at roughly mile 6.8. The route requires approximately 15 river crossings of the Middle Fork, typically shin to knee depth in normal conditions but deeper after rain or snowmelt. The round trip is 13.9 miles with 1,450 feet of elevation gain and takes 5.5 to 6.5 hours for fit hikers. An overnight backpack is strongly recommended.
There is no cell service in this area. Download offline maps before departure. Check with the Gila National Forest ranger station at (575) 536-2250 for current trail conditions and river levels. Hot springs near Silver City New Mexico in the Gila Wilderness require serious advance planning.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit
The spring suits experienced backcountry hikers and overnight backpackers comfortable with multi-river-crossing routes, remote wilderness navigation, and fully self-sufficient travel. The long approach, 15-plus river crossings, absence of any facilities, and lack of cell service make this a destination for those with solid backcountry skills rather than casual day hikers. The reward is a remote, genuinely wild spring in one of the most dramatic canyon settings in New Mexico, often with few or no other visitors during weekday visits.
An overnight trip with a camp at the established sites near the pools allows time to explore the Middle Fork canyon further and avoids the time pressure of a long same-day return. Bring waterproof footwear suitable for repeated river crossings; neoprene socks are recommended for colder months. Flash flooding is a serious risk in Little Bear Canyon after rain; check the forecast before departing and be prepared to turn back if conditions change.
The spring is free to access as USFS wilderness, making it among the finest free hot springs New Mexico has to offer for backcountry visitors. There are no age restrictions, but the difficulty level makes it unsuitable for young children or those without strong hiking fitness. There is no wheelchair access. Camping at established sites nearby turns this into a rewarding multi-day wilderness itinerary.
Safety & Etiquette
Jordan Hot Spring Safety Tips
The most significant hazard is flash flooding in Little Bear Canyon. The canyon walls channel rainwater rapidly and flooding can occur without warning even when skies appear clear locally, as storms upstream can send water surging through the canyon. Always check the weather forecast before departing and monitor conditions throughout the hike. If water in the canyon rises or turns muddy brown, move immediately to high ground. Flash floods in slot canyons are frequently fatal. Contact the Gila National Forest ranger station at (575) 536-2250 before your trip for current conditions.
River crossings present a second serious hazard. The Middle Fork Gila River requires approximately 15 crossings at depths that range from shin to knee in normal conditions but can reach waist depth or higher after heavy rain or snowmelt. Use a trekking pole for balance and unbuckle your pack hip belt before entering water so you can shed the pack quickly if you fall. Never cross swift, deep water; if crossings look impassable, turn back. Waterproof footwear and neoprene socks improve safety and comfort. Hypothermia is a risk during colder months given repeated water exposure.
There is no cell service and no facilities of any kind in the wilderness. File a trip plan with a trusted contact before departing and specify your expected return time. Carry a paper map and compass as backup navigation. Pack out all waste; a wag bag is recommended. Camp at least 200 feet from the spring to protect the thermal habitat. Respect current fire regulations, which may prohibit campfires; check with rangers before your trip. Do not attempt this hike alone.
