On the road to Truth or Consequences
After exploring the Gila Cliff Dwellings, we start off for Riverbend Hot Springs which is close to Truth or Consequences (sounds like a TV game show). The road takes us through varied terrain and over two mountain passes.
 |
| High grassy range between forested hills |
|
 |
| Dry rocky canyons |
|
|
The highest one we've gone over so far is Emory Pass (8,228 ft) in the Black Mountain Range. This road has so many switchbacks, we start to joke about the number of horse shoe turns. At the top we find snow and tall pines. The steep descent quickly brings us to drier, rockier county and eventually back to the desert floor.
 |
| Emory Pass Summit |
|
 |
| Red rock outcrop |
|
 |
| Deep river gorge |
|
Riverbend Hot Springs
By late afternoon, we stop at the hot springs hoping to get an RV spot, only to learn they have just passed out the last one. Fortunately, we've got a plan B and end up at
Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort. After the Gila Wilderness, it seems a bit sparse on the desert floor; however, what's great about this particular RV park is it's wonderful facilities. Peter and I both treat ourselves to luxurious showers.
 |
| Our camp site at Elephant Butte Lake |
|
|
|
We're packed up early to spend some time at the hot springs.
Riverbend Hot Springs has a wonderfully artsy look and feel that appeals to us right away.
 |
| Office for registration |
|
 |
| Hand build wall |
|
|
The location right on the Rio Grande River is truly wonderful.
 |
| Pool and patio over looking the Rio Grande |
|
 |
| Guest lodging |
|
 |
| Peter enjoys a hot pool overlooking the river |
|
We elect to get the public access day passes for around $10 each. That Friday morning isn't at all crowded. We meet a couple from LA, Maya and Keith. Sylvia, the owner, tells us how she and her husband bought the hot springs over 20 years ago as a minnow hatchery for fishermen along the Rio Grande. The hot pools seen below, were originally used to grow minnows in. Unfortunately, the bait business simply didn't pan out. So they decided to take a chance on developing the abundant hot springs water from the aquifer just under their property. Over the years, they have gradually improved the resort to where it is today.
 |
Peter, Maya and Keith enjoying the baths
in what was once minnow pools |
|
 |
| Sylvia sits with us and tells us about developing the springs and the local lore about the healing properties of the region |
|
|
It seems like all hot springs have at least one guardian cat. Minnow is the kitty on duty here.
 |
| Sleep well Minnow - we hope to see you again real soon |
|
|
|
Thanks guys! We are so glad you enjoyed your soak.
ReplyDeleteRiverbend really is a lovely place and we hope to return again when we can spend more time.
Delete