Salmon River State Forest, Colchester, Connecticut, 06415

## Overview Tucked within the scenic woodlands of Salmon River State Forest in Colchester, Connecticut, this public drinking spring offers a convenient stop for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts exploring one of the state's most beloved forests. The spring features two spigots designed for easy bottle filling, making it a popular water source for visitors passing through the area along State Highway 16 (Route 16). Salmon River State Forest encompasses over 6,000 acres of mixed hardwood and conifer forest, stretching across the towns of Colchester, East Hampton, Hebron, and Marlborough. The forest is named for the Salmon River, a major tributary of the Connecticut River and one of the state's premier trout and Atlantic salmon fishing destinations. The spring sits near the eastern edge of the forest, where the landscape is characterized by rolling hills, glacially carved terrain, and abundant groundwater — conditions that naturally give rise to springs throughout the region. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, and it has long been a familiar landmark for those who frequent the forest's extensive trail network. ## Directions 1. From the intersection of Route 2 and Route 16 in Colchester, head west on **Route 16 (State Highway 16)** toward East Hampton. 2. Continue along Route 16 for approximately 3–4 miles as it winds through Salmon River State Forest. 3. Watch for the spring on the **south side of Route 16**, near the address marker **294 State Hwy 16, East Hampton, CT 06424**. 4. The spring is roadside and accessible directly from the highway — look for the two spigots set into a small spring enclosure. 5. Parking is available in nearby pull-off areas along Route 16 within the state forest. **GPS Coordinates:** 41.5483, -72.4508 ## What to Expect The spring is a modest but well-used roadside feature with **two spigots** that allow for straightforward filling of water bottles and jugs. The flow is typically steady, and the setup is designed for public use. The surrounding area is heavily forested, offering a peaceful, shaded setting even during the warmer months. Salmon River State Forest is a year-round destination with miles of trails popular for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The spring makes a natural rest stop for anyone exploring the forest's trail system, including the well-known **Airline Trail** (a rail-trail that passes through the area) and various unmarked forest roads. In autumn, the surrounding hardwoods put on a spectacular foliage display, making this a particularly scenic stop. The spring is easily accessible from the road — no significant hiking is required. Visitors should be aware that water flow may vary seasonally, and the spring may run more slowly during dry summer periods. While this spring has been historically used as a drinking water source by visitors, water quality can fluctuate, and no guarantees of potability can be made.