· By Yulia Fishkin
7 Places to Find Natural Spring Water Near PDX
Water is essential to our health, as it makes up about 60-70% of the human body by weight, depending on factors like age and body composition. Given its central role in our biology, the quality of the water we consume can significantly impact our well-being.
While there are many options available, unprocessed spring water has long been regarded by some as one of the purest and most natural sources of hydration.
However, it’s important to approach this topic with a balanced understanding of the benefits and potential risks. This article will guide you through the essentials of collecting and storing spring water, ensuring that you enjoy its natural benefits while prioritizing your safety.
Why Choose Spring Water?
Spring water is often prized for its natural origin, coming from underground sources that flow to the surface. Because it’s typically filtered through layers of rock and soil, spring water can be rich in minerals. Some enthusiasts believe that spring water, when unprocessed, offers a more natural hydration experience.
However, it’s crucial to note that not all water is created equal. While unprocessed spring water can be refreshing and mineral-rich, it can also harbor natural contaminants, including bacteria and parasites, if not sourced carefully. This is why many commercially available spring waters undergo some form of treatment, such as ozonation or UV light exposure, to ensure safety.
How to Find a Spring
If you’re interested in collecting your own spring water, the first step is to locate a safe and reliable spring. Websites like FindASpring.org can be valuable resources for identifying springs near you. However, not all springs are listed, so it’s worthwhile to ask local residents or consult maps, such as those provided by the U.S. Forest Service, which may indicate the locations of natural springs.
When researching a spring, check reviews and comments from others who have visited it. Look for information about water quality, flow rate, and the surrounding environment. If you have any doubts about the safety of the water, it’s wise to test it before consumption.
Collecting and Storing Spring Water
Once you’ve found a spring, plan how you will collect and transport the water. If the spring is easily accessible, gathering water may be straightforward. However, if the spring requires a hike, ensure you have the appropriate gear, such as a sturdy backpack to carry filled containers.
When it comes to storage, glass containers are generally recommended over plastic because glass is non-reactive and doesn’t leach chemicals into the water. If you do use plastic for safety or convenience, consider transferring the water to glass containers as soon as possible. Companies like Alive Water offer reusable glass jugs that are both practical and environmentally friendly.
Proper storage of spring water is essential to maintain its quality. Unprocessed spring water should be kept in a cool, dark place to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. While some people choose to filter their spring water before drinking, this isn’t always necessary if you’re confident in the water’s purity.
Respecting the Source
When visiting a spring, it’s important to treat the source with respect. Natural springs have been revered by cultures around the world for their life-giving properties. Simple actions like cleaning up any trash in the area or clearing debris that might obstruct the water flow are meaningful ways to honor the spring.
7 Places to Collect Natural Spring Water Near Portland, Oregon
Mile Marker 28 on Highway 26
Located about 42 miles west of Portland on Highway 26, near mile marker 28, this natural spring is a popular stop for travelers heading to the Oregon Coast. Marked by blue "Drinking Water" signs, the site features fountains and faucets on both sides of the road, offering free, mineral-rich spring water that draws people year-round. Whether you’re refilling a water bottle or stocking up with multiple jugs, this spot provides a refreshing and nostalgic taste of pure Oregon water.
Cloud Cap/Tilly Jane Spring, Mount Hood, OR
You can access this area from the Timberline Trail #600. The trailhead begins at the Tilly Jane campground on Mt. Hood. The Eliot Glacier melt from this spring appears directly under the rocks.
Sunset Falls Spring, WA
Near Sunset Falls in Yacolt, located in northeastern Clark County, there is an artesian well that offers pristine water from an unpolluted mountainous area on the edge of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Wahkeena Springs, Columbia River Gorge, Portland, OR
This natural spring, located along a hiking loop near Multnomah Falls, flows directly from the ground without a spout. To reach it, park at Multnomah Falls Lodge off Highway 30 and enjoy a 3-mile hike through scenic trails, where you might also find wild berries in season. The spring is accessible 24/7, with pure water at 51.8°F and a TDS of 23. Be sure to bring a backpack for collecting water along the way.
Silverman Springs, Skamania, WA
Turn off on SR14 and stay north on the center road until you reach a right-hand parking spot. You can park here or drive a short skid road through the brush to a rough trail heading east for about half a mile. After crossing a boulder field, head towards the second most northerly group of Maple trees. This spring flows straight out of the hillside, offering cold and sweet water. As you hike, you'll pass "Jimmy Cliff," a popular rock climbing spot on your left.
Apiary Spring, Rainier, Oregon
This spring is located off Apiary Road, near Camp Wilkerson. Look for a gravel road that dips away from the main road and then loops back. The spring is marked by a continuously flowing spout, making it easy to find. The nearest address is Camp Wilkerson, 65866 Apiary-Market Road, Rainier, OR.
Scappoose Vernonia Hwy Spring, Scappoose, OR
This year-round spring is a local favorite, providing what many consider the best water around. Located on the left side of the road as you head west on the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway, it's just past mile marker 15. To find it, look for a tan manufactured house on the right at 30291 Scappoose-Vernonia Highway; the spring is directly across the street. Though the spring is easy to spot, recent reports suggest a dip in water quality, so consider testing it if you plan to use it regularly.