Portage Lake Spring

## Overview Portage Lake Spring is a public drinking spring located in the small, scenic community of Portage Lake in Aroostook County, Maine. Situated in the heart of Maine's northern wilderness — an area often referred to as the "Crown of Maine" — this spring sits at approximately 46.760°N, 68.479°W, surrounded by the dense boreal forests and pristine waterways that define this remote corner of New England. Aroostook County is known for its clean groundwater resources, fed by glacial aquifers deposited thousands of years ago during the last Ice Age. Springs like this one have historically served as valued sources of fresh water for local residents and travelers passing through the region. Visitors have reported that the water from Portage Lake Spring tastes clean and refreshing, and it has long been used as a local drinking water source. The village of Portage Lake itself is a quiet, rural community nestled along the shores of its namesake lake, offering a peaceful setting for those exploring northern Maine's vast outdoor landscape. ## Directions 1. From the south, travel north on **U.S. Route 11** toward Portage Lake, Maine. 2. The spring is located in or near the village of **Portage Lake, ME 04768**. 3. Use GPS coordinates **46.760139, -68.479306** for precise navigation, as signage in this remote area may be limited. 4. Once in the Portage Lake area, look for the spring near the roadside — public drinking springs in rural Maine are often marked with a pipe or spout near the road. *Note: Cell service can be unreliable in northern Aroostook County. It's a good idea to download offline maps before heading out.* ## What to Expect Portage Lake Spring is a roadside public drinking spring typical of those found throughout rural Maine. Expect a simple, no-frills setup — likely a pipe or spout emerging from the ground or a hillside, with water flowing freely for visitors to collect. The surrounding area is characterized by thick spruce-fir forests, rolling hills, and the quiet beauty of Maine's northern interior. Portage Lake itself is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, and the spring makes a convenient stop for those exploring the region. This part of Maine experiences long, cold winters and short, pleasant summers. The spring is most easily accessed from late spring through early fall. During winter months, snow and ice may make access more challenging, and flow rates can vary seasonally. There are no known fees or access restrictions for this public spring. Visitors typically bring their own containers to fill. As with any natural water source, water quality can fluctuate, and the spring has not been confirmed to undergo regular testing.