Kauffman Flats Spring, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

## Overview Kauffman Flats Spring is a free, publicly accessible natural spring located along the Walter Bean Grand River Trail in the Waterloo-Kitchener area of Ontario, Canada. The spring produces a steady flow of water that visitors have historically used as a drinking water source, and many locals regularly visit to fill containers. The spring is available 24/7 and has long been a popular stop for trail users, hikers, and residents seeking fresh, unprocessed spring water. The spring sits within the scenic Grand River watershed, one of southern Ontario's most significant river systems. The Walter Bean Grand River Trail — named after Walter Bean, a prominent Kitchener community leader and conservationist — winds through forests, wetlands, and riverside landscapes, and Kauffman Flats is one of its notable natural features. The area around the spring is lush and peaceful, offering a pleasant setting for a short outing. Please note that during periods of very low temperatures, the spring water may freeze and become inaccessible. ## Directions 1. From the south, begin on **Route 85 (Highway 85)** heading north from where Route 85 and Route 7 (Highway 7) meet. 2. Drive north for several kilometres and take a **right turn onto Lexington Road**. Look for **Sabletine Fine Pastries** near this turn as a landmark. 3. Continue along Lexington Road until you reach **University Avenue East**. 4. Turn **left onto University Avenue East**. 5. The trailhead and access to the spring will be near **bus stop 202** along this stretch. 6. From the road, reaching the spring requires a short hike of approximately **15 minutes** along the Walter Bean Grand River Trail. **GPS Coordinates:** 43.504456, -80.496674 **Nearest Address:** 444 Lexington Rd, Kitchener, ON N2K ## What to Expect The spring is not directly roadside — plan for a short hike of about 15 minutes along the Walter Bean Grand River Trail to reach it. The trail is well-maintained and popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, so the path is generally easy to follow. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for a natural trail surface. The water flows steadily from the spring, making it easy to fill bottles and containers. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and fresh, and it has been used as a drinking water source by locals for years. Bring a water bottle or a larger container — whatever you can comfortably carry on the hike back. During winter months, be aware that the spring can freeze over when temperatures drop significantly, so it may not be accessible year-round. In warmer seasons, the surrounding area along the Grand River is especially scenic, with mature trees and riverside views making the walk to the spring a rewarding experience in itself. The spring is free to use and open to the public at all hours. There is no fee or permit required.