McEwan Spring, Prince George, BC, Canada

## Overview McEwan Spring is a well-known natural spring located along Highway 97, approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of Prince George in the Bear Lake area of British Columbia. Situated roadside on the northbound side of the highway, this public drinking spring has long been a popular stop for travelers, truckers, and locals who make regular trips to fill up on fresh spring water. Long-time visitors have reported that the water from McEwan Spring is some of the best-tasting they've encountered, and many have been returning to collect water here for years. The spring flows continuously and at a strong rate, making it a reliable water source throughout the year. It has been set up in a way that makes filling large containers — including 5-gallon jugs — quick and convenient, which speaks to its popularity as a community water collection point along this stretch of northern BC highway. ## Directions 1. From **Prince George, BC**, head north on **Highway 97** toward Chetwynd/Dawson Creek. 2. Continue north for approximately **50 miles (80 km)**. 3. Watch for the **Emerald/Crystal turnoff** on the right-hand side of the highway — this is a key landmark. 4. McEwan Spring is located **just before** the Emerald/Crystal turnoff, on the **right side of the highway** (when traveling northbound). If you pass the turnoff, you've gone about a minute too far — turn around and double back. 5. The spring is roadside and visible from the highway. Pull off safely onto the shoulder or gravel area near the spring. **GPS Coordinates:** 54.472584, -122.664596 ## What to Expect McEwan Spring is a roadside spring with a strong, continuous flow. The setup is practical and well-suited for filling large water containers, so bring your jugs if you're stocking up. The flow rate is fast enough that even 5-gallon containers fill without a long wait. The spring sits along the Highway 97 corridor in a forested stretch of northern British Columbia, so expect a scenic boreal landscape of spruce and pine. Because it's right off the highway, access is straightforward — no hiking or trail navigation required. Simply pull over and walk a short distance to the spring. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, and many locals who have been collecting water here for years report that it tastes exceptionally clean and fresh. As with any natural, untreated water source, conditions can vary, and the water has not been officially tested or certified for drinking. The spring flows year-round, though winter travelers should be prepared for icy conditions around the collection area and along the highway shoulder. During warmer months, this makes for a refreshing stop on the long drive north through BC's interior.