Last updated: December 11, 2024
Place
Stop 1: Sulphur Creek Trailhead
NPS
Quick Facts
Amenities
2 listed
Parking - Auto, Trailhead
Welcome to the self-guided Sulphur Springs Geology Tour! Sulphur Springs is an active geothermal area within Valles Caldera National Preserve where hot and cold springs, mudpots, and fumaroles are common. We will talk more about these features as you walk through the area.
Sulphur Springs is about 0.5 miles up the road after you pass through the gate. The total hike, including the loop within Sulphur Springs, is about 1.5 miles. This area is off limits to pets due to safety concerns. Pets could be injured by the hot acidic water present.
Always watch your step and stay a safe distance from the features. The terrain is uneven, and some areas may have a thin crust over a thermal feature. Don’t risk falling into water that could cause severe burns.
Please bring drinking water with you. Be aware that you will probably not have cell phone service there.
As you walk along the road toward Sulphur Springs, you may hear water running. This is Sulphur Creek. It is to your left as you walk toward Sulphur Springs from the gate, and then it will cross under the road. The headwaters – or beginning - of Sulphur Creek is within Valles Caldera National Preserve. Sulphur Creek is somewhat acidic due to the acidic spring water that flows into it. Sulphur Creek eventually flows into the Jemez River outside of the Preserve.
Sulphur Springs is about 0.5 miles up the road after you pass through the gate. The total hike, including the loop within Sulphur Springs, is about 1.5 miles. This area is off limits to pets due to safety concerns. Pets could be injured by the hot acidic water present.
Always watch your step and stay a safe distance from the features. The terrain is uneven, and some areas may have a thin crust over a thermal feature. Don’t risk falling into water that could cause severe burns.
Please bring drinking water with you. Be aware that you will probably not have cell phone service there.
As you walk along the road toward Sulphur Springs, you may hear water running. This is Sulphur Creek. It is to your left as you walk toward Sulphur Springs from the gate, and then it will cross under the road. The headwaters – or beginning - of Sulphur Creek is within Valles Caldera National Preserve. Sulphur Creek is somewhat acidic due to the acidic spring water that flows into it. Sulphur Creek eventually flows into the Jemez River outside of the Preserve.
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- Duration:
- 2 minutes, 27 seconds
The density of geothermal features in Sulphur Canyon reveals the volcanic origins of Valles Caldera. Hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles adorn this fascinating area along the park’s western boundary. Learn more about the geothermal activity at Valles Caldera National Preserve in this Caldera Chat with Ranger Topher!