Frederick-Miller Spring

## Overview Frederick-Miller Spring is a historic public drinking spring located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, within Hennepin County. Nestled in the Minnesota River valley, this spring has a long history of active use stretching back well over a century. The first recorded mentions of springs and seeps in this area date to mid-nineteenth-century government land surveys, as well as diaries and memoirs written by Euro-American settlers. These early accounts confirm that seeps and springs were abundant throughout the valley and were actively sought out as sources of clean, reliable water — a tradition that continues to this day. The City of Eden Prairie purchased the property in 1969 and made improvements to the spring site in 1972 and again in 2003. Despite these updates, the spring site today retains much of its original character and reportedly appears almost exactly as it did around 1890, offering visitors a tangible connection to the area's pioneer-era heritage. The spring is named in the tradition of many Minnesota landmarks that honor early settlers and community figures. It remains a popular stop for locals who fill jugs and bottles from the flowing water. A trough is available for year-round use, making it accessible even during Minnesota's harsh winters. Visitors have historically used the spring as a drinking water source, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. ## Directions 1. From **Flying Cloud Drive** (a major east–west road in Eden Prairie), head north onto **Spring Road** (County Road 4). 2. Travel approximately **one quarter mile** north on Spring Road. 3. The Frederick-Miller Spring is located at the **east end of Spring Road**, at the address **9995 Spring Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55347**. 4. There is automobile access directly to the spring site, so you can drive right up to it. **GPS Coordinates:** 44.821699, -93.481169 ## What to Expect Frederick-Miller Spring is one of the more accessible public springs in the Twin Cities metro area. The site is set up for easy drive-up access — you can park your car and walk just a short distance to the spring. A water trough is available year-round, allowing visitors to collect water in all seasons. The surrounding area sits within the scenic Minnesota River valley, where natural seeps and springs have flowed for centuries. The landscape retains a rural, historic feel despite its proximity to suburban Eden Prairie. The spring site itself has been maintained to preserve its late-nineteenth-century appearance, giving it a charming, old-fashioned quality. This is a popular spot among local residents who regularly visit to fill containers with spring water. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source and has been reported to taste clean and fresh, though as with any natural spring, conditions can change and no guarantees of water quality can be made. The spring flows consistently, but flow rates may vary seasonally. The site is family-friendly and easy to visit as a quick stop or a brief outing. Bring your own containers if you plan to collect water.