The best walks and hikes in Sierra County

Even if you are not staying at the Riverbend Hot Springs as a hotel guest, you can purchase a day property pass and visit these relaxing hot springs and experience one of the many hot springs that have made this area famous for centuries. Visiting Riverbend Hot Springs for an afternoon offers a relaxing experience with access to a variety of geothermal pools. The springs feature both public and private soaking options, with stunning views of the Rio Grande and surrounding mountains. The pools range in temperature, allowing visitors to find their preferred comfort level.

Healing Waters Plaza is in the center of Truth or Consequences and celebrates the town's history as a hot springs destination. The plaza is part of the Healing Waters Trail and features walking paths, gardens, and informational signage about the area's thermal waters. It offers visitors a peaceful environment to relax and learn about the healing properties of the hot springs that have drawn people to the region for decades. The plaza is also often used for community events and local gatherings.

The Carrie Tingley Hill Trail connects Rotary Park to Veterans Park and the New Mexico State Veterans' Home. This is a pleasant trail along the Rio Grande, but it is not wheelchair accessible.

The Point of Rocks Trail is a half-mile loop trail introduced in 2010 along the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail in New Mexico. It offers an easy hike with educational signage highlighting the history and natural features of the area. The trail provides views of the Jornada del Muerto desert and connects hikers to the broader historical context of the Spanish settlers who once traveled this route. It's a short, accessible trail that complements the nearby Yost Escarpment Trail​.

The Yost Escarpment Trail is a 1.5-mile educational trail located near Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. It is part of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail, which commemorates the historic route taken by Spanish settlers. The trail offers an easy hike with scenic views of the Jornada del Muerto desert and interpretive signs that provide insights into the area's history. The trail was introduced in 2010 and is one of the two new trails created to enhance the educational experience along the historic route.

The Paseo del Rio Trail, or the Fish Hatchery Trail, traverses the Rio Grande by an old Fish Hatchery between Truth or Consequences and the Elephant Butte Dam. This popular, scenic walking path is located by a camping area and has restrooms available at the beginning and the end of the trail.

The West Lakeshore Trail stretches 12-miles along the western shore of Elephant Butte Lake. This long trail is somewhat piecemeal; it is comprised of different sections of trail, dirt road, and paved road. It is easy to get sucked into side adventures in the scenic desert landscape. You can take the West Lakeshore Trail as far as you want, enjoying the views of the water and surrounding area.

Elephant Butte Reservoir is located in southern New Mexico and is the state’s largest reservoir. It is a part of the 36,000-acre Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Created by Elephant Butte Dam on the Rio Grande in 1916, which was named after a rock formation resembling an elephant, it provides flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. The reservoir offers over 200 miles of shoreline and recreational activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. It once held the title of the largest man-made lake in the world and is home to diverse wildlife; it is the only place in New Mexico where you can see pelicans!