Moxie Spring, West Forks, Maine

## Overview Moxie Spring is a public drinking spring located along Lake Moxie Road in West Forks, Maine, nestled in the rugged wilderness of Somerset County. The spring produces clear, cold water that visitors have reported tastes fresh and excellent. Situated in the heart of Maine's North Woods — an area renowned for its pristine waterways, dense forests, and outdoor recreation — Moxie Spring has long been a welcome stop for locals and travelers passing through the region. The spring shares its name with nearby Moxie Lake and the broader Moxie area, a name with deep roots in Maine history. "Moxie" is believed to derive from an Abenaki word, and the name became nationally famous through Moxie soda, one of America's oldest soft drinks, which was originally marketed as a "nerve food" tonic. While the soda's direct connection to this particular spring is part of local lore rather than established fact, the Moxie name carries a certain mystique in Maine — and this spring is a fitting embodiment of the region's clean, wild character. The spring is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it a reliable water source for hikers, hunters, anglers, and anyone exploring the West Forks area. ## Directions 1. From the center of **West Forks, Maine**, head south on **US Route 201**. 2. Turn onto **Lake Moxie Road** (also referred to locally as Moxie Road). 3. Follow Lake Moxie Road toward Moxie Lake. The spring is located along this road near the address **1118 Lake Moxie Road, West Forks, ME 04985**. 4. Watch for the spring on the roadside — it is a well-known local stop and is typically visible from the road. **GPS Coordinates:** 45.354767, -69.879822 *Note: Lake Moxie Road is a rural road in northern Maine. Road conditions may vary seasonally, especially during spring thaw and winter months. A vehicle with decent clearance is recommended.* ## What to Expect Moxie Spring is a roadside spring that flows freely and is accessible without any significant hiking or trail navigation. The water runs clear and cold, and visitors have consistently praised its fresh, clean taste. The surrounding landscape is classic Maine backcountry — tall conifers, quiet woods, and the kind of unspoiled scenery that draws people to Somerset County in the first place. The spring is open around the clock with no gates or restricted hours, so you can stop by at any time of year. That said, winter visitors should be prepared for snow-covered roads and cold temperatures typical of northern Maine. Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit, with fall foliage adding spectacular color to the drive along Lake Moxie Road. The West Forks area is a popular destination for whitewater rafting on the Kennebec and Dead Rivers, as well as hiking along the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region. Moxie Spring makes a great stop before or after a day of outdoor adventure. Bring containers if you'd like to collect water, and enjoy one of Maine's quiet natural treasures.