Hot Springs Road

Trail Overview

Visitors entering the Hot Well Dunes must first stop at the registration area to review park rules regarding OHV use and general conduct. The trail begins as a broad, smooth track with a posted speed limit of 10 mph, passing by 11 dispersed campsites, most equipped with tables and fire rings. After passing the main campground near the hot springs, the trail narrows considerably. From this point on, the surface becomes more uneven, with winding, off-camber sections and bumps caused by frequent motorized traffic. The trail climbs out of the dunes toward a nearby cattle station, and approximately 700 feet after reaching it, the road conditions worsen. The track becomes narrow and rocky, with several wash crossings and steep ascents and descents. A particularly challenging section features an off-camber climb through deep bull dust, followed by a stretch of rough, rocky road as it ascends into the mountains. A capable, high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. The trail offers stunning views of both the surrounding mountains and dunes and appears to be lightly traveled. There are no services along this route--no water or trash facilities--and cell reception is limited. However, there are some opportunities for dispersed camping, especially near the rather bleak cattle station.

Photos of Hot Springs Road

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Difficulty

The trail becomes more adventurous and unmaintained once you leave the OHV area.

History

Approximately two million years ago, a shallow lake covered what is now southeastern Arizona. As the lake dried up, its sandy beaches were shaped by wind into the dunes that define the present-day Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area. In the late 1920s, while drilling for oil in the San Simon Valley, workers unexpectedly discovered geothermal water. This artesian well continues to produce over 250 gallons of water per minute at a temperature of 106 degrees. Today, the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area encompasses 2,000 acres of sand dunes managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It offers opportunities for off-highway vehicle recreation, camping, and soaking in the natural hot tubs fed by the artesian well.

Technical Rating

Hot Springs Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")