Square Keg Barkeep’s Spring

## Overview Square Keg Barkeep's Spring is a public drinking spring located in the mountains of southwestern Colorado, near the town of Creede in Mineral County. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,000 feet in the San Juan Mountains, this spring sits within one of the most geologically active and mineral-rich regions in the state. The San Juan volcanic field, which shaped this landscape over millions of years, is known for producing numerous natural springs fed by snowmelt and deep groundwater percolating through ancient volcanic rock formations. The GPS coordinates place this spring along the upper Rio Grande corridor, an area historically significant for silver mining, ranching, and outdoor recreation. The name "Square Keg Barkeep's Spring" suggests a colorful local history — possibly tied to the saloons and mining camps that once dotted this rugged terrain during Colorado's silver boom of the late 1800s. Creede itself was one of the last great silver strikes in the American West, and natural springs in the area have long been valued by miners, settlers, and travelers as reliable sources of fresh mountain water. ## Directions 1. The spring is located at GPS coordinates **37.7922635227309, -106.85733970478**. 2. From Creede, Colorado, head west on CO-149 / Main Street toward the Rio Grande. 3. Use a GPS device or mapping app to navigate to the precise coordinates, as the spring may be off a secondary road or forest service route in the surrounding San Juan National Forest area. 4. Look for signs of a developed or semi-developed spring source near the roadside or trailhead. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates only and have not been independently verified with a detailed route description. Visitors are encouraged to confirm access conditions locally, especially during winter months when mountain roads may be snow-covered or impassable.* ## What to Expect This spring is classified as a public drinking spring, suggesting it has historically been used by locals and visitors as a water source. At nearly 9,000 feet of elevation in the San Juan Mountains, the water is likely cold and fed by snowmelt filtering through volcanic rock — a process that can impart trace minerals characteristic of the region's geology. The surrounding landscape is quintessential high-country Colorado: dense stands of spruce and aspen, dramatic canyon walls, and sweeping mountain vistas. The area around Creede and the upper Rio Grande valley offers outstanding hiking, fishing, and scenic driving, particularly along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway (CO-149). Visitors should be aware that mountain weather can change rapidly at this elevation. Summer months (June through September) generally offer the best access and most pleasant conditions. Road accessibility may be limited in winter and early spring due to snow. There are no reports of formal facilities at the spring site, so plan accordingly.