

Riverside, rock-lined thermal pools beside the Animas River with forested canyon backdrops—great for intimate waterscape and landscape shots. Best light is golden hour (sunrise or sunset) when steam contrasts with warm light; winter offers dramatic steam clouds but can be icy. Small pull-off parking on US‑550 and a short walk; wear quick-dry clothes and respect locals/private property. Crowds are lowest weekdays and early mornings.


Riverside, rock-lined thermal pools beside the Animas River with forested canyon backdrops—great for intimate waterscape and landscape shots. Best light is golden hour (sunrise or sunset) when steam contrasts with warm light; winter offers dramatic steam clouds but can be icy. Small pull-off parking on US‑550 and a short walk; wear quick-dry clothes and respect locals/private property. Crowds are lowest weekdays and early mornings.