Epic Road Trip Adventure

Southwest Desert Springs Odyssey

Desert Oases: Hot Springs & Hidden Pools of the American Southwest

Journey through the mystical desert landscapes of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada to discover incredible natural hot springs, hidden oases, and crystal-clear pools surrounded by dramatic red rock formations and endless skies.

7 days
Duration
800+ miles
Distance
6
Swimming Stops
Moderate to challenging
Difficulty

Your Journey Awaits

Journey through the mystical desert landscapes of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada to discover incredible natural hot springs, hidden oases, and crystal-clear pools surrounded by dramatic red rock formations and endless skies.

Best Time to Visit

Fall through spring

Trip Details

Duration
7 days
Distance
800+ miles
States
AZ, NM, UT, NV
Difficulty
Moderate to challenging

Follow the Journey

Watch your adventure unfold along this scenic route. Each stop brings new discoveries and unforgettable swimming experiences.

1
Day 1 • Enter the desert wonderland

AGUA CALIENTE HOT SPRINGS

Begin your desert odyssey at this incredible spring where water miraculously appears in the arid landscape....

TUCSON, GREEN VALLEY, AZ
2
Day 2 • 3 hours

ROPER LAKE

Journey deeper into the Southwest to discover this remarkable oasis where Varies creates life in the desert....

TUCSON, SAFFORD, AZ
3
Day 3 • 3 hours

Goldstrike Canyon Hot Springs and Colorado River Spots

Continue across red rock country to this stunning hot springs/river carved by ancient geological forces....

LAS VEGAS, HENDERSON, BOULDER CITY, NV
4
Day 4 • 3 hours

MCGILL SPRINGS

Venture to this mystical location where desert springs offer refreshing relief under endless blue skies....

ELY, MCGILL, NV
5
Day 5 • 4 hours

FAYWOOD HOT SPRINGS

Explore this spectacular destination where hot springs bubble up from deep within the Earth's core....

EL PASO (TX), SILVER CITY, LAS CRUCES, FAYWOOD, NM
6
Day 6 • 6 hours

MONTEZUMA HOT SPRINGS

Conclude your desert adventure at this breathtaking hot spring - nature's desert masterpiece....

LAS VEGAS, MONTEZUMA, NM

Detailed Daily Itinerary

1

AGUA CALIENTE HOT SPRINGS

Spring

Begin your desert odyssey at this incredible spring where water miraculously appears in the arid landscape.

Today's Highlights

Natural hot spring with soothing warm water
Located in Coronado National Forest
Picturesque setting in Santa Rita Mountains
Unspoiled and free to access
Seasonal wildlife and desert flora
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
TUCSON, GREEN VALLEY, AZ
Travel Time
Enter the desert wonderland
Water Body
Agua Caliente Spring
Entry Fee
Free
2

ROPER LAKE

Hot Springs/Lake

Journey deeper into the Southwest to discover this remarkable oasis where Varies creates life in the desert.

Today's Highlights

Natural hot tub for relaxation
Safe swimming areas for families
Picturesque desert and mountain views
Wildlife spotting opportunities
Accessible camping facilities
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
TUCSON, SAFFORD, AZ
Travel Time
3 hours
Water Body
Varies
Entry Fee
$10.00 to camp overnight
3

Goldstrike Canyon Hot Springs and Colorado River Spots

Hot Springs/River

Continue across red rock country to this stunning hot springs/river carved by ancient geological forces.

Today's Highlights

Natural hot springs with varying temperatures
Strenuous 4-mile canyon hike with ropes and ladders
Rocky beach on the Colorado River
Geothermal pools and waterfalls
Wildlife and desert flora
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
LAS VEGAS, HENDERSON, BOULDER CITY, NV
Travel Time
3 hours
Water Body
Hot Springs/Colorado River
Entry Fee
Free
4

MCGILL SPRINGS

Spring

Venture to this mystical location where desert springs offer refreshing relief under endless blue skies.

Today's Highlights

Clear, spring-fed waters
Swimming, sliding, and diving activities
Picnic tables for visitors
Proximity to Great Basin National Park
Stunning desert scenery
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
ELY, MCGILL, NV
Travel Time
3 hours
Water Body
McGill Springs
Entry Fee
Unknown
5

FAYWOOD HOT SPRINGS

Hot Spring

Explore this spectacular destination where hot springs bubble up from deep within the Earth's core.

Today's Highlights

Geothermal hot springs with therapeutic waters
Rich cultural history dating back to the Mimbres culture
Camping and cabin accommodations available
Proximity to City of Rocks State Park
Stunning desert landscapes and wildlife
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
EL PASO (TX), SILVER CITY, LAS CRUCES, FAYWOOD, NM
Travel Time
4 hours
Water Body
Hot Spring
Entry Fee
Yes, day use fee and overnight fee
6

MONTEZUMA HOT SPRINGS

Hot Spring

Conclude your desert adventure at this breathtaking hot spring - nature's desert masterpiece.

Today's Highlights

Mineral-rich geothermal pools
Historic significance
Year-round access
Natural high-desert setting
Free admission
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
LAS VEGAS, MONTEZUMA, NM
Travel Time
6 hours
Water Body
Hot Spring
Entry Fee
No

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