Pocahontas Spring, Port Clinton, PA

## Overview Pocahontas Spring is a natural public drinking spring located along the Appalachian Trail near Port Clinton, Pennsylvania, in Schuylkill County. Situated at approximately 1,200 feet of elevation on Blue Mountain, the spring consists of three separate water sources that flow along the trail, each marked by stone surrounds. The water emerges directly from the ground — there are no pipes or man-made collection systems — giving visitors a truly natural spring experience. The spring has been a favorite water source for Appalachian Trail hikers and local visitors for many years. According to one longtime visitor, friends and family have been enjoying the water since at least 2005 without boiling or filtering, and no cases of giardia, Cryptosporidium, or other waterborne illness have been reported among that group. While this is encouraging, water quality at natural springs can vary with weather and seasonal conditions, so visitors should use their own discretion. ## Directions 1. Head to the intersection of **Blue Mountain Road and Route 61** in Port Clinton, PA (ZIP 19549). 2. Park at the **Appalachian Trail trailhead** located at the junction of Blue Mountain Road and the trail crossing. 3. Follow the **Appalachian Trail northbound**, crossing Route 61. 4. Continue along the trail for approximately **3 miles**. The terrain can be quite steep in places, so wear sturdy footwear. 5. Watch for the three spring sources along the trail — each is surrounded by **stone markers** that make them easier to spot. **Note:** The spring is only accessible on foot via the Appalachian Trail. There is no vehicle access beyond the trailhead parking area. **GPS Coordinates:** 40.574402, -76.020668 ## What to Expect Pocahontas Spring offers a rewarding backcountry experience for hikers willing to make the roughly 3-mile trek along the Appalachian Trail from Port Clinton. The trail gains significant elevation as it climbs Blue Mountain, so expect a moderately strenuous hike with some steep sections. Once you reach the spring area, you'll find three distinct water sources flowing along the trail, each identified by stone markers placed around the spring openings. The water seeps directly from the ground, so flow levels can be shallow at times — especially during dry periods. Bringing a smaller container or cup can make it much easier to collect water when the flow is low. The spring is open and accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The surrounding Blue Mountain forest provides a scenic, shaded setting that's especially beautiful during fall foliage season. Since this is a trail-accessible spring with no facilities, plan accordingly: carry what you need and pack out all trash. Whether you're a thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail looking for a reliable water source or a day-tripper exploring the Port Clinton area, Pocahontas Spring is a worthwhile destination that connects you with one of Pennsylvania's natural water sources in a beautiful mountain setting.