The Jemez, N.M., area — approximately an hour and a half’s drive from Albuquerque or Santa Fe — sits in a hot-spring zone. A natural experience can be found at Spence Springs, highlighted by rock pools and a clothing-optional custom. (Pat Vasquez-Cunningham / AP)
The ruins of the San José de los Jemez church, in Jemez State Monument, stand as a reminder of Spain’s attempts to colonize New Mexico. Other attractions include an ancient pueblo and pottery and gift shops with wares made by its descendants. (Pat Vasquez-Cunningham / AP)
The area’s geological history is evidenced not only by the hot springs but the remnants of major volcanic eruptions and, at Soda Dam in Jemez Springs, a mineral-deposit partial obstruction on the Jemez River. (Pat Vasquez-Cunningham / AP)
