St. Marys Spring, Kimberley, BC, Canada

## Overview St. Marys Spring is a roadside natural spring located along St. Marys Lake Road in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia, between the communities of Marysville and Kimberley. The spring flows year-round from a pipe emerging low to the ground from a hillside, delivering cold, clear water that visitors have long reported to be delicious and refreshing. Nestled in the scenic St. Mary River valley — an area shaped by ancient glacial activity and rich in mineral-bearing geology — this unassuming spring has been a popular stop for locals and travellers who know where to find it. The surrounding landscape is classic interior BC: forested mountain slopes, the winding St. Mary River nearby, and quiet stretches of road with limited traffic. Kimberley itself, known as the "Bavarian City of the Rockies," sits at an elevation of roughly 1,120 metres and is famous for its alpine character and outdoor recreation. St. Marys Spring makes a convenient stop for anyone exploring the area, whether heading to St. Mary Lake, the nearby alpine trails, or simply passing through the valley. ## Directions 1. From Kimberley or Marysville, locate the turnoff for **St. Marys Lake Road** (situated between the two communities). 2. Turn onto St. Marys Lake Road and continue for approximately **15 km** (roughly 18 minutes of driving). 3. Watch carefully on the **right side** of the road for a pipe sticking out from the hillside, low to the ground. The spring is easy to miss. 4. There is a **small pullout on the left side** of the road where you can safely park. 5. Cross the road to access the spring on the right. **GPS Coordinates:** 49.61498, -116.153077 *Tip:* The spring is subtle — there is no large sign or obvious landmark. If you're using GPS, plug in the coordinates above to help pinpoint the location. Drive slowly as you approach the 15 km mark and keep your eyes on the right-hand hillside. ## What to Expect St. Marys Spring is a simple, no-frills roadside spring. Water flows from a pipe that protrudes from the hillside close to ground level, so bringing a jug or bottle that's easy to fill at a low angle is recommended. The flow is reported to be consistent throughout the year, including during winter months, making it an all-season water source. The pullout area is small, with room for one or two vehicles. The road itself is paved but can be quiet, so exercise normal caution when crossing to the spring side. The surrounding area is peaceful and scenic, with views of forested hillsides typical of the East Kootenay region. Visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and fresh, and the spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals. As with any natural spring, water quality can vary with conditions, and the water is untreated and unmonitored.