East Jewett hill spring / 23c / arboretum hill

## Overview Tucked along State Route 23C between the hamlet of East Jewett and the summit of the hill leading to Tannersville, this charming roadside spring is a beloved stop for locals and visitors exploring the northern Catskills of Greene County, New York. Sitting at an elevation of roughly 2,000 feet in the heart of the Mountaintop region, the spring emerges from the hillside and is sheltered by a small shingled roof structure, with a whimsical fairy house serving as its springhead — a delightful touch that makes it easy to spot and hard to forget. The water has been described by visitors as vibrant and refreshing, with a noticeable metallic mineral taste that likely reflects the iron-rich geology of the surrounding Catskill Mountains. During winter months, the spring reportedly gushes with strong flow, and a small creek fed by the spring runs alongside the road. The area has long been associated with the cultural and spiritual life of the mountaintop community — All Souls Church and the Mountaintop Arboretum sit at the crest of the hill just above, lending a serene, pastoral character to the surroundings. ## Directions 1. From the hamlet of **East Jewett**, head **east** on **State Route 23C** toward Tannersville. 2. As you begin climbing the hill, watch the **right-hand side** of the road carefully. 3. Look for a small **shingled-roof structure** with a distinctive **fairy house / springhead** — this marks the spring. 4. The spring is located between East Jewett and the top of the hill where All Souls Church and the Mountaintop Arboretum are situated. 5. There is a small pull-off area on the shoulder of the road — just enough space to park one or two vehicles safely off the pavement. **GPS Coordinates:** 42.227918, -74.139812 **Nearest Address:** 1046 State Rte 23C, Tannersville, NY 12485 ## What to Expect This is a modest, roadside spring — don't expect a grand trailhead or developed park. The appeal lies in its simplicity and character. The fairy house springhead is a charming folk-art touch, and the shingled roof keeps the source somewhat sheltered from the elements. Water flow has been reported to be strongest in winter and early spring, consistent with the seasonal patterns of Catskill mountain springs. The pull-off space is limited, so be mindful of traffic on Route 23C, especially during leaf-peeping season when the road sees heavier use. The creek that runs from the spring along the road adds a pleasant soundtrack to the stop. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and lively, though it carries a metallic mineral flavor — a common characteristic of springs in this iron-rich region of the Catskills. As with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather and season. While you're in the area, consider continuing up the hill to visit the **Mountaintop Arboretum**, a beautiful 17-acre public garden and woodland preserve that offers walking trails and seasonal programs — a perfect complement to a spring water stop.