Kilkenny Spring, Berlin, NH

## Overview Kilkenny Spring is a natural public drinking spring located along Kilkenny Loop Road in the White Mountain National Forest, near the border of Berlin and Randolph, New Hampshire. Nestled in the rugged landscape of Coos County, this spring features a pool with a sandy bottom surrounded by natural stones — a classic New England forest spring setting. The spring sits within the Kilkenny area of the White Mountain National Forest, a region known for its remote wilderness character, dense boreal forests, and dramatic peaks including Mount Cabot, the northernmost 4,000-footer in New Hampshire. The U.S. Forest Service reportedly considered improving the spring site in the mid-1970s but ultimately decided against formal development due to liability concerns. As a result, the spring has remained in a largely natural, undeveloped state. Historically, the spring has been used as a drinking water source by hikers and locals passing through the area. As with any natural, untreated water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary and has not been formally tested or certified. ## Directions 1. From Berlin, NH, head south on NH Route 110 toward Randolph. 2. Look for **Kilkenny Loop Road** branching off to the **west** side of the highway. 3. The spring is located near the **south end** of Kilkenny Loop Road, close to the highway. 4. The spring pool may not be immediately visible from the road — you may need to search the area on foot, as the site can become overgrown with vegetation. **GPS Coordinates (approximate):** 44.441868, -71.327873 *Note: These directions are based on the original submitter's description and have not been independently verified. The spring's exact location may require some exploration, especially if the surrounding area has become overgrown since the site was last visited.* ## What to Expect Kilkenny Spring is a rustic, undeveloped natural spring. Visitors will find a pool with a sandy bottom bordered by stones, set in a forested area near the road. Because the Forest Service chose not to formalize the site, there are no built-up structures, signage, or maintained paths leading to the spring. The area surrounding the spring may be overgrown, particularly during the warmer months when vegetation is at its peak. Wearing sturdy footwear and being prepared to do a bit of searching is advisable. The spring is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, though winter conditions in northern New Hampshire can make road access challenging — Kilkenny Loop Road may not be maintained during heavy snow. The broader Kilkenny region offers excellent hiking opportunities, including trails to Mount Cabot and the Kilkenny Ridge Trail, making the spring a potential stop for those exploring this quieter corner of the White Mountains. The setting is peaceful and remote, well away from the more heavily trafficked areas of the national forest to the south.