Loon Lake Spring, Loon Lake, NY

## Overview Loon Lake Spring is a beloved natural spring tucked into the heart of the Adirondack Mountains near the hamlet of Loon Lake in Franklin County, New York. Situated along Goldsmith Road, this roadside spring has long been a favorite stop for locals and visitors who appreciate its remarkably cold, refreshing water. The spring is located roughly an hour's drive from Plattsburgh, making it a worthwhile detour for anyone exploring the northern Adirondacks. The surrounding Adirondack Park — the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States at over six million acres — provides a stunning backdrop of dense boreal forest, pristine lakes, and rugged peaks. Visitors have reported that the water from Loon Lake Spring is exceptionally cold and clean-tasting, and it has historically been used as a drinking water source by area residents and travelers. As with any natural spring, water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. ## Directions 1. From Plattsburgh, NY, head west on **Route 3 (NY-3)** toward Saranac Lake / Loon Lake. 2. Continue on Route 3 for approximately 50–55 miles through the Adirondack foothills until you reach the Loon Lake area. 3. Turn onto **Goldsmith Road** (watch for the road sign on the right-hand side). 4. Follow Goldsmith Road to its end — the spring is visible at the terminus of the road. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 44.551693, -74.056725 (the nearest address is approximately 1 Loon Lake Rd, Vermontville, NY 12989). ## What to Expect Loon Lake Spring is a roadside spring that flows year-round, producing notably cold water even during the warmest summer months. The spring is accessible directly from the end of Goldsmith Road, so no significant hiking is required — though the road itself is rural and may be unpaved near the end. The area is rich with Adirondack wildlife. Visitors have reported sightings of raccoons, white-tailed deer, moose, and even bald eagles in the vicinity, so keep your eyes open and a camera handy. The surrounding forest is especially beautiful during autumn foliage season (typically late September through mid-October), when the hardwoods blaze with color. There are no posted hours for the spring, and it appears to be accessible at all times. Cell service can be spotty in this part of the Adirondacks, so it's a good idea to download directions or a map before heading out. The nearest services (gas, food, lodging) can be found in the villages of Saranac Lake or Vermontville.