Mile 109 Mountain Spring, Anchorage, Alaska

## Overview Mile 109 Mountain Spring is a roadside natural spring along the Seward Highway on Alaska's stunning Turnagain Arm, just south of Anchorage. Water flows from a spout protruding directly out of the mountain rock face, making it one of the more accessible and dramatic natural springs in the region. The spring is located on the north side of the highway, near the Mile 109 marker, in an area renowned for its breathtaking coastal mountain scenery, wildlife viewing, and proximity to popular stops like Beluga Point and McHugh Creek. The spring flows year-round and has attracted a loyal following among locals who regularly stop to fill containers. Visitors have reported that the water has notably high alkalinity — approximately 170 ppm, compared to an Anchorage city average of around 70 ppm. Hardness levels are calculated based on calcium and manganese content, though specific hardness numbers for this spring have not been widely published. A nearby waterfall in the area was reportedly measured at a hardness of 6, suggesting the spring water is considerably more mineral-rich. These readings were provided by a local water filter outlet that tested the spring water, though official municipal or state testing data has not been confirmed. As with any natural, untreated water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary seasonally and no guarantee of potability can be made. ## Directions 1. From Anchorage, head south on the **Seward Highway (AK-1)**. 2. Pass **Potters Marsh** and continue south along Turnagain Arm. 3. Drive past **McHugh Creek** trailhead and **Beluga Point** scenic overlook. 4. Shortly after McHugh Creek, begin watching for the **Mile 109 highway marker** on the Anchorage (north) side. 5. The spring is located a little before Mile 109. Look for a **pullout on the right (ocean/south) side** of the highway — the spring spout is on the **left (mountain/north) side**, protruding from the rock face. 6. You may notice other visitors lined up with jugs and containers, which is a good indicator you've found the right spot. 7. If you reach the **Mile 110 marker**, you've gone slightly too far — turn around and look for the pulloff and spring pipe on your way back. *Note: The spring is on the north (mountain) side of the highway, across from the pullout. Use caution when crossing the road, as the Seward Highway carries fast-moving traffic along this stretch.* ## What to Expect The spring is easy to access directly from the highway — no hiking required. Water flows continuously from a pipe or spout set into the exposed rock face of the mountainside. The flow is generally steady, though it may vary with seasonal conditions. The pullout across the highway provides parking space for several vehicles. The setting is spectacular. Turnagain Arm is one of Alaska's most scenic drives, with towering mountains on one side and the tidal waters of the arm on the other. Depending on the season, you may spot Dall sheep on the cliffs above, beluga whales in the water below, or bald eagles overhead. The spring is conveniently located near **McHugh Creek** (a popular trailhead with picnic areas and hiking trails) and **Beluga Point** (a scenic overlook known for whale watching). The spring is open and accessible at all hours, year-round. In winter, be prepared for icy road conditions and reduced daylight. Bringing containers is recommended, as there are no facilities at the spring itself. It's common to see a line of people gathering water, especially on weekends — a testament to the spring's popularity among Anchorage-area residents.