Madawaska Lake Spring

## Overview Madawaska Lake Spring is a public drinking spring located in the far northern reaches of Maine, near the community of Madawaska Lake in Aroostook County. Situated at approximately 47.04°N, 68.20°W, this spring sits in the heart of Maine's Acadian heritage region — an area known for its pristine forests, cold-water lakes, and deep Franco-American cultural roots. Aroostook County, often called "The County" by Mainers, is the largest county east of the Mississippi and is renowned for its unspoiled natural landscapes. The region's geology — shaped by ancient glacial activity and underlain by sedimentary and volcanic bedrock — gives rise to numerous natural springs that have historically served as drinking water sources for local communities and travelers alike. Madawaska Lake Spring continues this tradition as a publicly accessible water source. The spring is located in a rural, sparsely populated area near Madawaska Lake (also known as Long Lake in some older references), a scenic body of water that has long been a destination for fishing, hunting, and quiet outdoor recreation. Visitors have historically used this spring as a source of fresh drinking water, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions and should be assessed at the time of visit. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in northern Aroostook County, Maine, near the shores of Madawaska Lake. 2. From the town of Stockholm, ME, head north on Route 161 toward Madawaska Lake. 3. Use the GPS coordinates **47.0431, -68.1966** for precise navigation, as the spring is in a rural area with limited signage. 4. Look for the spring along the roadside or lakeside area near the coordinates — a pull-off or clearing may mark the spot. *Note: Cell service can be unreliable in this part of Aroostook County. It is recommended to download offline maps before heading out.* ## What to Expect Madawaska Lake Spring is set in a quintessentially northern Maine landscape — expect dense boreal forest, quiet country roads, and sweeping views of Madawaska Lake. The area is remote and peaceful, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Aroostook County or traveling through Maine's northernmost communities. As a public drinking spring, the site has been used by locals and visitors as a freshwater source. The water has historically been regarded as clean and refreshing, though conditions can change over time and no formal water quality guarantee can be made. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing on Madawaska Lake (known for brook trout and landlocked salmon), birdwatching, and exploring the region's Acadian cultural heritage. Winters in this part of Maine are long and cold, so the spring may be less accessible or frozen during the colder months. The best time to visit is typically late spring through early fall.