Attractions & Activities

Jemez Springs has a charming, albeit small, selection of local eateries that cater to visitors and locals alike, often with a focus on New Mexican flavors and a cozy atmosphere. Keep in mind that hours can vary, especially in a smaller town, so calling ahead is always a good idea!

1

Historical Sites & Museums

Jemez Historic Site

(New Mexico Historic Sites)

  • Description: This is the absolute must-visit for history enthusiasts in Jemez Springs. It preserves the stone ruins of the 700-year-old Gíusewa Pueblo (an ancestral Jemez village) and the majestic remnants of the San José de los Jémez Mission Church, which dates back to 1621-1622. An interpretive trail winds through the ruins, and a visitor center provides exhibits on the history and culture of the Jemez People.
  • Address: On State Route 4, just north of Jemez Springs, NM.
  • Phone: 575-829-3530
  • Website: https://nmhistoricsites.org/jemez or https://www.newmexicoculture.org/historic-sites/jemez-historic-site
  • Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. Closed Monday and Tuesday. (Always check their website for current hours, especially around holidays).
  • Admission: $7 for adults; free for children 16 and younger. NM residents with ID are free the first Sunday of every month.

Walatowa Visitor Center (Jemez Pueblo)

  • Description: Located within the Jemez Pueblo, a few miles south of Jemez Springs, this center serves as the gateway to learning about Towa culture and traditions. It includes the Walatowa History Museum with exhibits on Jemez ancestral lands, repatriated artifacts, traditional tools, and crafts. They also have a gift shop featuring authentic Jemez Pueblo pottery, jewelry, and art, and offer guided hikes of the Red Rock Canyon Trail.
  • Address: 7413 Highway 4, Jemez Pueblo, NM 87024
  • Phone: 505-494-1960 or 575-834-7235
  • Website: https://jemezenterprises.com/walatowa-visitor-center/
  • Hours: Typically 9 AM to 5 PM daily (Summer Hours), 9 AM to 4 PM daily (Winter Hours). Check their site for current hours.
  • Admission: The museum is free. There may be fees for guided tours or access to specific trails.
  • Important Note: The Pueblo of Jemez has a closed village policy to the general public to protect their traditional way of life. Visitors are welcome at the Walatowa Visitor Center and its museum, but please respect all rules of etiquette regarding photography (generally not allowed), driving through residential areas, and visiting private homes.

Valles Caldera National Preserve

While not a “historical site” in the traditional sense, this vast volcanic caldera holds immense geological and ecological significance, and its history ties into the ancient inhabitants of the region. It’s a breathtaking natural wonder with interpretive programs.

Important Considerations for Dining in Jemez Springs:

  • Hours of Operation: Many small-town restaurants, especially in tourist-dependent areas, can have irregular or seasonal hours. It’s highly advisable to call ahead to confirm they are open, particularly if you are arriving later in the evening or on a weekday.
  • Limited Options: The selection is not vast compared to larger cities. If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, it’s best to research menus beforehand or consider bringing some of your own provisions.
  • Local Charm: What they lack in quantity, they often make up for in unique local flavor and a friendly, small-town atmosphere.

Enjoy your meal in Jemez Springs!

2 the Bohdi2

Parks & Nature Areas

Santa Fe National Forest
(Jemez Ranger District)

  • Description: The vast majority of the land surrounding Jemez Springs is part of the Santa Fe National Forest. This means endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The Jemez Ranger District is the local administrative unit.
  • Address: Forest Road 376 (many access points throughout the valley). Jemez Ranger District Office (for maps, permits, info): 05153 New Mexico 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025.
  • Phone: 575-829-3535 (Jemez Ranger District)
  • Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/santafe (Look for Jemez Ranger District specific info)
  • Notes: Permits may be required for some activities (e.g., specific types of camping, firewood collection). Always check forest alerts for fire restrictions or closures.

Valles Caldera National Preserve

  • Description: A magnificent 89,000-acre volcanic caldera, now managed by the National Park Service. It offers stunning high-elevation grasslands, diverse wildlife (including elk), and unique geological features. Activities include scenic drives, hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing in winter. Entrance is via Highway 4.
  • Address: (Entrance on NM State Road 4) 39200 New Mexico 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-4100
  • Website: https://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm
  • Notes: Check the website for current hours, entrance fees (if any), and specific regulations for activities like fishing or elk viewing.

Spence Hot Springs

  • Description: A popular series of natural, undeveloped hot springs located in a picturesque setting along the San Antonio Creek. There are multiple pools of varying temperatures carved into the rock.
  • Address: On Highway 4, about 7 miles north of Jemez Springs, just past the turn-off for Forest Road 376 (Battleship Rock). Look for parking along the road and a short, relatively steep trail down to the springs.
  • Phone: N/A (managed by Santa Fe National Forest)
  • Website: Information often found on Santa Fe National Forest site or local tourism sites.
  • Notes: This is a primitive site. No facilities. Can get crowded. Pack out all trash. Respect the natural environment.

Battleship Rock

  • Description: A prominent, striking rock formation accessible via a short hike from the parking area. It’s a popular picnic spot where the East Fork of the Jemez River and San Antonio Creek meet. Features scenic trails, including access to McCauley Warm Springs trail.
  • Address: On Highway 4, approximately 6.5 miles north of Jemez Springs. Look for a large parking area and picnic grounds.
  • Phone: N/A (managed by Santa Fe National Forest)
  • Website: Information found on Santa Fe National Forest site.
  • Notes: Picnic tables and restrooms are available. Great for a quick stop and a short walk.

Jemez Falls

  • Description: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Mexico, accessible via a relatively easy, short hike from a campground. The falls cascade over volcanic rock into a clear pool.
  • Address: Off Highway 4, located north of the Valles Caldera entrance. There will be signage for Jemez Falls Campground and the trailhead.
  • Phone: N/A (managed by Santa Fe National Forest)
  • Website: Information found on Santa Fe National Forest site.
  • Notes: There’s a campground nearby. Can be quite popular, especially in summer.

Soda Dam

  • Description: A unique natural rock formation built up by centuries of mineral deposits from a carbonated spring, forming a “dam” across the Jemez River. It’s an interesting geological roadside attraction.
  • Address: On Highway 4, just south of Jemez Springs village. Easily visible from the road.
  • Phone: N/A (public roadside attraction)
  • Website: N/A (information on local tourism sites)
  • Notes: No facilities. Can be seen from the car, but a short walk to get closer is possible. Be cautious of traffic.
  • Description: While mentioned under historical sites, the trail itself is a beautiful nature walk through the ruins, offering views of the surrounding landscape and flora.
  • Address: On State Route 4, just north of Jemez Springs, NM (at Jemez Historic Site).
  • Phone: 575-829-3530
  • Website: https://nmhistoricsites.org/jemez
  • Notes: Requires admission fee to Jemez Historic Site.

Red Rock Canyon Trail (Jemez Pueblo)

  • Description: Located within the Jemez Pueblo lands, this scenic trail winds through beautiful red rock formations. Access and conditions are managed by the Walatowa Visitor Center.
  • Address: Access via Walatowa Visitor Center, 7413 Highway 4, Jemez Pueblo, NM 87024.
  • Phone: 505-494-1960
  • Website: https://jemezenterprises.com/walatowa-visitor-center/
  • Notes: Always check with the Visitor Center for current trail status, any access fees, and rules, as this is on sovereign tribal land.

These natural areas offer a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing hot springs to challenging hikes and breathtaking scenic views. Always remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting.

3

Entertainment Venues

Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon

  • Address: 17596 Highway 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-3547
  • Website: https://losojossaloon.com/
  • Notes: A historic spot offering American and New Mexican breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for its old-west style building and sometimes has live music on weekends. It’s a central hub for the community.

Jemez Mountain Brewhouse

  • Address: 17691 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-4222
  • Website: https://www.jemezmountainbrewhouse.com/
  • Notes: Offers craft beers and often has a menu that includes pizzas and salads. Check their website for current draft lists and food offerings.

Trinity Springs Venue:

  • Description: This is primarily an event venue for private bookings like weddings, corporate retreats, and private parties, rather than a public entertainment venue that hosts regular shows. However, if you are looking to host an event with entertainment, this would be an option.
  • Address: 187 Coyote Road, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 505-385-8776
  • Website: https://trinityspringsvenue.com/

Jemez Springs Public Library

  • While not a traditional entertainment venue, public libraries often host community events, author talks, workshops, or even D&D nights as indicated in some local calendars. These are more for community engagement than performance.
  • Address: 30 Jemez Springs Plaza, Jemez Springs, NM
  • Website: https://jsplibrary.org/calendar/ (Check their calendar for events).

Sometimes hosts cultural events, lectures, or small concerts during specific seasons. For example, their calendar shows “Summer Concerts” and other educational programs.

Jemez Historic Site

  • Address: On State Route 4, just north of Jemez Springs, NM.
  • Phone: 575-829-3530
  • Website: https://nmhistoricsites.org/jemez (Check their “Upcoming Events” section).

Bandelier National Monument

Located about an hour’s drive east of Jemez Springs (via Highway 4 through the Valles Caldera), Bandelier preserves ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings, cavates (cave dwellings), and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. It’s a significant archaeological site.

The Village of Jemez Springs itself (and local organizations) often hosts small community events, art shows, or gatherings, especially during the warmer months. These might include informal musical performances, storytelling, or other local entertainment.

Summary for Entertainment:

If you’re looking for entertainment, your best bet is to check the events page of Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon and Jemez Mountain Brewhouse for live music. For broader community activities, check the Jemez Historic Site and the Village of Jemez Springs websites/social media for special events during your visit.

For large-scale concerts, theater productions, or movie theaters, you would need to drive to larger nearby cities like Los Alamos, Rio Rancho, or Albuquerque.

4

Tours & Sightseeing

Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway (Highway 4)

  • Notes: Allow ample time for stops at pull-offs, trailheads, and viewpoints. Road conditions can vary, especially in winter.
  • Description: This is the most iconic “tour” in the area. It’s a breathtaking self-guided drive that winds through the Jemez Mountains, offering stunning views of red rock canyons, pine forests, high-altitude meadows (Valles Caldera), and volcanic formations. It connects the Rio Grande Valley (near Bernalillo) to the Jemez Valley, then passes through Jemez Springs and continues north towards Los Alamos.
  • Address: Begins roughly near San Ysidro (south) or Los Alamos (east). The central part runs directly through Jemez Springs.
  • Phone: N/A (Public byway, information available from Santa Fe National Forest or New Mexico Tourism)
  • Website: https://www.jemezmountaintrail.org/ or https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/santafe/recarea/?recid=75850

Walatowa Visitor Center (Jemez Pueblo)

  • Description: While primarily a museum, the Walatowa Visitor Center often offers guided hikes of the Red Rock Canyon Trail led by knowledgeable Jemez Pueblo members. These tours provide unique insights into the Pueblo’s history, culture, and connection to the land that you wouldn’t get on a self-guided visit. Availability can vary.
  • Address: 7413 Highway 4, Jemez Pueblo, NM 87024
  • Phone: 505-494-1960 or 575-834-7235
  • Website: https://jemezenterprises.com/walatowa-visitor-center/
  • Notes: Call ahead to inquire about guided tour availability, schedules, and any fees. Remember to respect all Pueblo rules and customs.

Jemez Historic Site

  • Description: This site offers a self-guided interpretive trail through the ruins of Gíusewa Pueblo and the San José de los Jémez Mission Church. The visitor center provides exhibits and educational materials, effectively making it a self-guided historical tour.
  • Address: On State Route 4, just north of Jemez Springs, NM.
  • Phone: 575-829-3530
  • Website: https://nmhistoricsites.org/jemez
  • Notes: Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit. Admission fee applies.

Valles Caldera National Preserve
(Self-Guided/Ranger Programs)

  • Description: This immense volcanic caldera offers stunning scenic views and wildlife watching opportunities. You can drive through (limited access) or take part in various ranger-led programs or guided tours that provide deeper understanding of the caldera’s ecology and history. Check their schedule for specific guided tours.
  • Address: (Entrance on NM State Road 4) 39200 New Mexico 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-4100
  • Website: https://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm
  • Notes: Ranger programs and specialized tours (e.g., elk tours, fishing tours) often require reservations and fees.
Hiking and Nature Exploration (Self-Guided)
  • Spence Hot Springs: A popular natural hot spring accessed via a short hike.
  • Battleship Rock: Scenic picnic area with short trails.
  • Jemez Falls: A beautiful waterfall accessible via a moderate hike.

Notes: Carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Check for fire restrictions.

Overall: The Jemez area excels in providing incredible scenic drives and opportunities for self-guided exploration of natural and historical wonders. For truly “guided tours,” the Walatowa Visitor Center (Jemez Pueblo) and special programs at Valles Caldera are your best bets.

5

Shopping (Souvenirs, Local Crafts)

  • Description: An artist co-op organized and run by local artists, located in the old post office. They feature a diverse range of fine art, including oils, watercolors, pastels, and collage, as well as unique gifts like turned wooden bowls, pottery, jewelry, photography, hand-knitwear, and fabric art.
  • Address: 17375 Hwy. 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-3018
  • Website: https://www.jemezartisans.com/
  • Notes: A great place to find authentic, handmade items directly from the artists. Call for off-season hours.
  • Description: An artist collective featuring mixed media by local and Jemez area artists. You can find oil paintings, sculpture, photography, linocut prints, weavings, ceramics, and more. They often host visiting artist exhibitions.
  • Address: 17346 Hwy. 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-3340
  • Website: https://www.jemezfineart.com/
  • Notes: Free and open to the public. Check their “Artist on Site Calendar” to see when specific artists are working at the gallery.

Walatowa Visitor Center Gift Shop
(Jemez Pueblo)

  • Description: Located within the Jemez Pueblo’s visitor center, this gift shop offers a curated collection of local Native American pottery (especially world-renowned Jemez Pottery), jewelry, cultural gifts, sterling silver and turquoise items, storytellers, embroidered woven cloths, and local foods. They also carry Jemez Mountain and Walatowa branded souvenirs.
  • Address: 7413 Highway 4, Jemez Pueblo, NM 87024 (a short drive south of Jemez Springs village)
  • Phone: 505-494-1960 or 575-834-7235
  • Website: https://jemezenterprises.com/walatowa-visitor-center/ (Look for the “Gift Shop” link)
  • Notes: All merchandise is sourced from local Native artists and carefully selected by Indigenous staff. A fantastic place for authentic Pueblo arts and crafts.

Janecka Collection / Janecka Skin Care (The Inn @ 6300)

  • Description: A gift shop with free-form pottery, natural skincare products, mineral makeup, and jewelry handcrafted by the Janecka family. This shop is associated with “The Inn @ 6300.”
  • Address: 16441 Highway 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-4367
  • Website: https://www.janeckaskincare.com/
  • Notes: Offers unique, locally made personal care items and crafts.

Aspen Ridge Alpacas

  • Description: A working alpaca ranch with a shop selling handmade alpaca wool products, including clothing, yarns, and other soft goods. They also sometimes sponsor events and workshops about alpacas.
  • Address: 790 Aspen Dr., Jemez Springs, NM 87025 (Mile Marker 26-27 on Highway 4, north of the main village)
  • Phone: 575-829-3312
  • Website: http://www.aspenridgealpacas.com/
  • Notes: A unique shopping experience, especially if you’re interested in fiber arts or seeing alpacas. Call for their shop hours.

Jemez Springs Bath House Gift Shop

  • Description: In addition to spa services, the Bath House has a gift shop featuring handmade items, often including local crafts and wellness-related products.
  • Address: 062 Jemez Springs Plaza, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-3303
  • Website: https://jemezspringsbathhouse.com/ (Check under “Gift Shop” or general amenities)
  • Notes: Great for unique, locally-made items and self-care products.

WEEKENDS (Resale & Gifts)

  • Description: Offers shoes, jewelry, new and nearly new clothes, and various “tchotchkes” (small ornaments or trinkets). It’s described as a charming gift shop with unique items.
  • Address: 50 Canyon Court, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
  • Phone: 575-829-3095
  • Website: No dedicated website, but listed on local directories.
  • Notes: Open “nearly” every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Good for finding eclectic and second-hand treasures.

General Shopping Tips:

  • Support Local: Your purchases directly support the local economy and the talented artists of the Jemez Valley.
  • Hours Vary: Many of these smaller, independent shops have seasonal or flexible hours. It’s highly recommended to call ahead or check their individual websites/social media (if available) before you visit.
  • Unique Finds: Don’t expect large retail chains. The charm of shopping in Jemez Springs is in discovering one-of-a-kind items made by local artisans and Pueblo members.
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