Petrofka Spring, Petrofka, SK, Canada

## Overview Petrofka Spring is a high-flow natural spring located in a peaceful picnic area near the small community of Petrofka in rural Saskatchewan, about 63 km north of Saskatoon. The spring emerges through a large PVC pipe and delivers an impressive flow rate — reportedly capable of filling a 5-gallon jug in roughly 10 seconds. A sign posted at the spring advises visitors to boil the water before drinking, likely for liability purposes. That said, locals have reportedly been using this spring as a drinking water source for over 20 years, with at least one long-time user running it through a simple charcoal filter. The spring sits along the scenic North Saskatchewan River valley, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the region or traveling Highway 12. ## Directions 1. **Starting point:** Head north from the Saskatoon Costco on Highway 12. The spring is approximately 63 km north. 2. **Cross the river:** Continue on Highway 12 until you cross the bridge over the North Saskatchewan River. 3. **Continue north:** Drive about 2 km past the bridge. 4. **Turn left onto Grid Road 781:** Shortly after, you'll see the entrance to a picnic area — turn into it immediately after turning onto 781. 5. **Stay left at the first Y** in the road. 6. **Stay left again at the second Y.** 7. **Park:** The parking area is roughly 50 metres past the second Y. 8. **Walk to the spring:** Follow the trail on foot for about 10 metres and you'll see the PVC pipe where the spring flows. *Note: A video of the drive has been recorded by a previous visitor and may be available online for reference.* ## What to Expect The spring is easy to access from the parking area — just a short 10-metre walk along a trail. Water flows from a large PVC pipe at a very high rate, so filling containers is quick and convenient. The ground around the spring can be wet and muddy, so keeping your feet completely dry may be a challenge. Flip-flops or waterproof footwear are recommended. **Mosquitoes are abundant in summer.** Visitors strongly recommend wearing long pants and a jacket even in warm weather to protect against bites. Bug spray is also a good idea. The surrounding picnic area offers a pleasant, shaded spot to rest, and the proximity to the North Saskatchewan River valley adds to the natural beauty of the location. The spring is accessible by vehicle year-round via maintained grid roads, though winter conditions in Saskatchewan may affect road quality — plan accordingly during colder months. GPS coordinates: **52.659614, -106.858024** (near Blaine Lake, SK).