Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is an 81-foot-deep spring in Santa Rosa, just a few minutes from I-40 and historic Route 66. The pool is only about 60 feet across at the surface, but its deep blue water and unusually good visibility have made it one of New Mexico’s best-known swimming and scuba diving spots. The spring stays in the low 60s year-round, so the water is cool even in the middle of summer.

What to Do

Most people come to swim, watch people jump from the surrounding rock ledges, or just sit by the water. There is no lifeguard, so swimming and jumping are at your own risk. The water gets deep immediately, so make sure you can swim before getting in. The Blue Hole is also a popular inland scuba diving site. Certified divers come here for training and recreational dives because of the clear water and 81-foot depth. Divers need to follow the city’s current permit, certification, and check-in requirements before entering the pool. The small park around the spring has grassy areas where you can sit or picnic.

How Much Time to Spend

If you’re just stopping while driving I-40 or Route 66, 30 minutes is enough to see the Blue Hole and walk around the park. Plan for an hour or two if you want to swim and spend some time relaxing. Scuba divers should probably plan on more time, I don’t scuba dive so I can’t really say.

Getting There

The Blue Hole is inside Santa Rosa, a short drive from I-40. The entire route is paved, and this is one of the easiest natural attractions in New Mexico to reach. From the parking area, walk ten feet to the water.

If you’re traveling across eastern New Mexico on I-40, Blue Hole is an easy detour and one of the most unusual stops along this stretch of Route 66!