Ney Springs near Faery Falls

## Overview Ney Springs is a historic natural mineral spring located in Siskiyou County, California, near the enchanting Faery Falls along the Sacramento River drainage. Situated at an elevation in the shadow of Mount Shasta, Ney Springs has a storied past dating back to the late 1800s, when it was developed as a mineral water resort destination. The springs were once commercially bottled and marketed for their purported health benefits, drawing visitors from across California who believed in the curative properties of the mineral-rich waters. The spring sits at approximately 41.2621° N, 122.3313° W, in a rugged and scenic stretch of northern Siskiyou County. The area is known for its dramatic volcanic geology — shaped by the forces of nearby Mount Shasta — which contributes to the mineral character of the water that surfaces here. Historically, the water from Ney Springs was noted for its distinctive mineral content, including sulfur and iron compounds, giving it a taste and aroma that set it apart from ordinary mountain springs. Visitors have historically reported that the water has a strong mineral flavor characteristic of deep geothermal sources. The proximity to Faery Falls — a beautiful, lesser-known waterfall tucked into the forests south of Mount Shasta — makes this area a rewarding destination for hikers and spring enthusiasts alike. ## Directions 1. From the town of Mount Shasta, head south on Interstate 5. 2. Take the exit for Ney Springs Road / Castle Crags area (near Castella or Dunsmuir, depending on your direction of travel). 3. Follow Ney Springs Road as it winds into the forested hills of Siskiyou County. 4. The spring is located near the trailhead area that also provides access to Faery Falls. 5. Use GPS coordinates **41.26207, -122.33132** to navigate to the precise location, as signage in the area may be limited. *Note: Roads in this area can be narrow, unpaved, and seasonally affected by snow or washouts. A vehicle with good clearance is recommended, especially in winter and early spring.* ## What to Expect Visitors to Ney Springs will find themselves in a lush, forested setting typical of the southern Mount Shasta region. The spring emerges in an area rich with mossy rocks, ferns, and towering conifers. The water has historically been described as having a noticeable mineral taste and slight sulfurous aroma — hallmarks of the volcanic geology that feeds it. The trail to nearby Faery Falls is a moderate hike that rewards visitors with a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall in a mossy grotto. Combining a visit to the spring with the Faery Falls hike makes for an excellent half-day outing. The area is relatively remote, so visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for uneven terrain. Cell service can be unreliable in this part of Siskiyou County. The best time to visit is late spring through fall, when roads are most accessible and water flow is at its most impressive. Winter visits are possible but may require navigating snow-covered roads.