HWY 159, Grand Lake Road Spring

## Overview The HWY 159 / Grand Lake Road Spring is a well-maintained public cold spring located along Route 159 (Grand Lake Road) near Patten, Maine, in Penobscot County. Situated close to the northern entrance of Baxter State Park — home to Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail — this roadside spring has long been a convenient refreshment stop for hikers, campers, and travelers heading into the North Maine Woods. The spring flows right next to the road, making it easily accessible without any hiking or bushwhacking. Visitors have reported the water to be clean, very cold, and great-tasting — a welcome find in this remote stretch of northern Maine. The area sits within the broader geological landscape of Penobscot County, where glacial deposits and bedrock fractures feed numerous natural springs throughout the region. ## Directions 1. From the town of Patten, Maine, head northwest on **Route 159 (Grand Lake Road)** toward the Matagamon Gate — the northern entrance to Baxter State Park. 2. The spring is located directly alongside the road, before you reach the park entrance. 3. GPS coordinates: **46.132853, -68.580535** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring can be easy to miss if you're not watching for it. 4. Look for the spring setup right at the roadside; no pulloff trail or significant walk is required. ## What to Expect This is a classic Maine roadside spring — simple, clean, and cold. The water flows freely and is easily accessible right from the edge of the road. There is no need to hike or navigate any trails; you can pull over and access the spring immediately. The water has been reported to be exceptionally cold and refreshing, which is typical of springs in this part of northern Maine where groundwater temperatures remain low year-round. The spring appears to be well cared for, suggesting regular use by locals and park visitors alike. Because of its location on the route to Baxter State Park's Matagamon Gate (north entrance), this spring is a popular stop for those heading in for backcountry camping, fishing on the East Branch of the Penobscot River, or climbing Katahdin via the northern trails. Seasonal visitors should note that Route 159 and the Matagamon Gate area can be less trafficked than the southern Togue Pond entrance, so the road may feel quite remote. Winter access may be limited depending on road conditions and plowing schedules. There are no facilities at the spring — just the natural water source at the roadside. Plan accordingly and enjoy this refreshing stop on your way into one of Maine's most treasured wilderness areas.