Coconut Spring, Howland, ME, 04448

## Overview Coconut Spring is a natural public drinking spring located along North Howland Road in the town of Howland, Maine, within Penobscot County. Nestled into a wooded hillside, this roadside spring has been used by locals as a source of fresh water and is a welcome stop for travelers passing through the area. The spring flows from a pipe that emerges from the hillside, delivering a steady stream of cool, naturally filtered groundwater. Visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and refreshing, consistent with the pristine groundwater sources found throughout central Maine's forested landscape. Howland sits at the confluence of the Penobscot River and the Piscataquis River, an area rich in natural springs fed by the region's glacially deposited soils and bedrock aquifers. The spring's name — Coconut Spring — adds a touch of local character and curiosity to this otherwise quiet woodland water source. ## Directions 1. From the center of Howland, head north on **North Howland Road (Route 116)**. 2. Travel along the right-hand side of the road and watch carefully for a small **dirt turnoff** on the roadside near **105 North Howland Road**. 3. Look for a **wooden staircase with a distinctive red top** leading down into the woods from the road. 4. Descend the staircase to a **small wooden platform** at the base of the hill. 5. The spring water flows from a **pipe (tube) that emerges from the hillside** directly at the platform. **GPS Coordinates:** 45.263307, -68.674443 ## What to Expect Coconut Spring is a simple, rustic roadside spring with a charming woodland setting. A wooden staircase — identifiable by its red-painted top — leads from the road down into the trees to a small wooden platform where the spring is accessed. The water flows continuously through a pipe that channels it out from the hillside, making it easy to fill bottles or jugs. The area around the spring is forested and shaded, offering a peaceful atmosphere. The infrastructure — stairs, platform, and pipe — suggests that the spring has been maintained and used by the local community for some time. Access is straightforward, though the staircase may be slippery when wet, so use caution in rainy conditions or during winter months. Because the turnoff is small and easy to miss, it helps to watch for the wooden staircase and red top as your landmark. There is limited parking space at the dirt pulloff, so be mindful of the road when stopping. The spring is accessible year-round, though winter visitors should be prepared for icy conditions on the stairs and surrounding area.