Highway 9 Horse Trough Springs

Natural water source located just off Highway 9 in Scotts Valley, CA.
As you travel south on Hwy 9, the spring is on your right side, just after signs to Henry Cowell Red Wood Park. You can't miss it!
The spring bed is fed from a pipe that collects the running water from a natural Spring just up the mountain.

Wilder Creek's source is from this spring. It's located in Cave Gulch. It is accessible via an unnamed path that runs between the Engelsmans Loop Trail and lower UCSC properties. Google Maps displays this trail. This trail is invaluable for mountain bikers as well as hikers traversing Wilder Ranch State Park. You will find the location of this spring by following the water. The area north of this spring has a dry, rocky creek bed filled with fallen trees. South of it is full of water. The spring is on the right, and it is covered by rocks (a canopy). I obtained a sample from the source and tested it with a microscope. I was unable to find any microorganisms living in the sample, but only trace amounts. This water was safe for me to consume. I consider this pure, potable water.

This spring water tastes amazing and is better than any other bottled water. If you're driving from Santa Cruz the spring will be on your right. It is approximately 50 feet away from the quarry. There are parking spots on both sides. TDS is approximately 35.
Accessible to the public
Continuous flow
Access available 24/7