Middle Path Spring, Polk, PA

## Overview Middle Path Spring is a public drinking spring tucked into the scenic backroads near Polk, Pennsylvania, in Venango County. Nestled in a powerful natural environment, this spring has drawn visitors who appreciate its robust water flow and the tranquil, wooded surroundings of northwestern Pennsylvania's rolling countryside. The spring is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it accessible whenever the urge to collect fresh spring water strikes. The area around Polk and Utica sits atop geological formations shaped by ancient glacial activity, which is common throughout this part of the Allegheny Plateau. These formations often produce springs with naturally filtered water that has passed through layers of sandstone and shale. Visitors have reported that the water from Middle Path Spring tastes exceptionally clean and refreshing, and the spring has historically been used as a local drinking water source by area residents. ## Directions 1. Start in **Polk, PA**. 2. Head **west on Valley Road** and continue for approximately **2.5 miles**. 3. Turn **right onto Dean Road**. 4. Travel about **half a mile** down Dean Road. 5. The **spring parking area** will appear on your **right-hand side**. **GPS Coordinates:** 41.385696, -79.988541 The spring is located along a rural backroad, so keep an eye out for the small parking area — it can be easy to miss if you're not watching for it. ## What to Expect Middle Path Spring is a roadside spring with a dedicated parking area, making access straightforward even for those unfamiliar with the area. The spring produces a strong, steady flow of water, and the surrounding environment is lush and peaceful — a hallmark of Venango County's unspoiled rural landscape. The drive to the spring is part of the experience. The backroads between Polk and the spring wind through wooded hills and quiet farmland, offering a scenic journey that feels far removed from the bustle of everyday life. The area is especially beautiful in autumn when the hardwood forests put on a vivid display of fall color. There is no formal infrastructure beyond the parking area, so visitors typically bring their own containers for collecting water. The spring is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may make the rural roads leading to it more challenging — use caution during icy or snowy weather. Cell service can be spotty in this part of Venango County, so it's a good idea to download directions before heading out.