Seven Stairs Water Fountian

## Overview Seven Stairs Water Fountain is a public drinking spring located along the iconic California Highway 1 (CA-1) in Big Sur, California. Situated at approximately mile marker coordinates 35.892574, -121.460661, this roadside spring offers travelers a refreshing stop amid one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in the United States. The Big Sur region is renowned for its rugged cliffs, ancient redwood forests, and natural springs fed by the Santa Lucia Mountains, which rise steeply from the Pacific Ocean. Springs like this one have historically served as vital water sources for travelers navigating this remote and winding coastal highway. The name "Seven Stairs" suggests the spring may be accessed via a short series of steps or a tiered rock formation — a common feature along Big Sur's steep terrain where natural water sources emerge from hillside seeps and fractures in the granitic and metamorphic rock of the Santa Lucia Range. Visitors have historically used roadside springs along CA-1 as drinking water sources, though water quality can vary seasonally and conditions may change over time. ## Directions 1. Travel along California Highway 1 (CA-1) through the Big Sur corridor. 2. The spring is located roadside at GPS coordinates **35.892574, -121.460661**, which places it along the northern stretch of Big Sur, roughly between the towns of Big Sur and San Simeon. 3. Watch for a small pullout or turnout area on the inland (mountain) side of the highway near the spring. 4. The spring appears to be accessible directly from the road — look for a fountain or spout structure, potentially with a short stairway leading to the water source. *Note: Highway 1 through Big Sur is subject to seasonal closures due to landslides and road work. Check Caltrans road conditions before your trip.* ## What to Expect Seven Stairs Water Fountain is a roadside public drinking spring along one of the most scenic drives in North America. Expect a simple, natural water source — likely a pipe or spout emerging from the hillside — set against the stunning backdrop of the Big Sur coast. The surrounding landscape features steep, chaparral-covered mountains, towering redwoods in nearby canyons, and sweeping ocean views. As with many roadside springs in the Big Sur area, flow may vary depending on the season. Springs in this region tend to flow most strongly during and after the winter rainy season (November through April) and may slow to a trickle or dry up during late summer and fall. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travelers, but conditions can change — use your best judgment regarding water quality. Parking is likely limited to a small highway pullout, so use caution when stopping along this narrow, winding stretch of CA-1. The area can be foggy, especially in the morning and evening, so visibility may be reduced. This is a wonderful stop to stretch your legs, fill a bottle, and take in the extraordinary natural beauty of the Big Sur coastline.