For those who are new to Jemez Springs, the village feels like an undiscovered gem. But with so many geological and cultural attractions in the area, what attracts visitors and residents to Jemez Springs today are the same features that have brought the area’s original inhabitants here for centuries. Information about the Jemez Valley can be found on the Jemez Springs Public Library’s site: www.jemezvalleyhistory.org. Information about Jemez Pueblo and its ancestral culture can be found at www.jemezpueblo.com.

According to the 2020 U.S. census, there are approximately 200 full time residents who live in the Village of Jemez Springs.

According to the 2010 U.S. census, there were approximately 250 full time residents.

The reddish, terra-cotta colors you see in the Jemez Mountains and mesas are due to oxidized iron, or ferric oxides, that coat the mineral grains that make up sandstone, siltstone and shale.

Jemez Springs is the gateway to the Valles Caldera National Preserve – one of only six super volcanoes in the world. Valles Caldera is approximately 17 miles north of Jemez Springs along Highway 4, the Jemez Mountain Scenic Byway. All 89,000 acres of the preserve are within Sandoval County and easily accessible via scenic mountain drive from Jemez Springs. Valles Caldera is home to New Mexico’s second largest elk herd, so those who love viewing wildlife will be attracted to the area especially during rutting season when the colors start to change in the area. There are dozens of hiking trails within the park for summer hikes as well as cross country skiing in the winter. Jemez Springs is a great base camp for a visit to the park.

Jemez Springs is sought after as an escape from the noise and business of the bigger cities, and everyday distractions. Jemez Springs welcomes families though, please note, some lodging establishments geared towards relaxation and quiet do not allow children under 10 years old. The same policies apply with commercial hot springs. Please inquire with individual facilities on policies. There are many awe inspiring activities that invite curiosity and bring families together for memorable experiences in Jemez Springs. What better way to teach a child about Native American history of the area than a walk along the ancient ruins of Jemez Historic Site? Kids will love fishing along the Jemez River or Fenton Lake State Park and will enjoy a walk along Soda Dam, where hot springs flow from the Valles Caldera. A short hike near the 200 foot Battleship Rock formation provides hiking, fishing and picnic opportunities as well. And what better photo opportunities of your little ones or once-little ones than against the backdrop of the red rock mesas near Jemez Pueblo and Virgin Mesa in the Village? You’re sure to learn more by talking to locals, and one place locals love to hang out at is Los Ojos Saloon and Restaurant. For suggested family friendly itineraries for multi-generations, 

Is public transportation available?Within the Jemez Springs Village limits, the elevation is 6,198 feet. But elevations can quickly change once in the Jemez Mountains. In fact, the highest elevation in the Jemez Mountains is 11,562 feet. It is advisable for those not used to high altitudes and when hiking or soaking to drink lots of water to stay hydrated and layer clothes. And take it slow!

The Rio Metro Regional Transit offers access at various times during weekdays only from several locations in Sandoval County including from the US 550 Rail Runner station in Bernalillo, NM. A full schedule and map of pick up locations is available at: www.riometro.org