Twin Spring, Manitou Springs, Colorado

## Overview Twin Spring is one of the celebrated mineral springs of Manitou Springs, Colorado — a historic town at the foot of Pikes Peak that has been renowned for its naturally carbonated mineral waters since long before European settlement. The Ute people considered the springs sacred, believing the bubbling waters held powerful healing properties. In the late 1800s, Manitou Springs became a fashionable health resort destination, drawing visitors from across the country who came to "take the waters." Twin Spring is part of this rich tradition and remains freely accessible to the public today. Located near 306 Canon Avenue, Twin Spring delivers naturally mineralized water that visitors have long praised for its refreshing, distinctive taste. Like many of the Manitou Springs, the water is naturally effervescent — infused with carbon dioxide and a complex blend of dissolved minerals as it percolates through ancient geological formations deep beneath the surface. The springs in this area draw from aquifers within Paleozoic sedimentary rocks, picking up minerals such as calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonate along the way. Each spring in Manitou Springs has a slightly different mineral profile, giving each its own unique character and flavor. Twin Spring has been historically used as a drinking water source, and many visitors report that it produces some of the best-tasting mineral water they have ever tried. The spring is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it easy to stop by at any time. ## Directions 1. From Colorado Springs, head west on US-24 (Midland Expressway) toward Manitou Springs. 2. Take the Manitou Springs exit and follow Manitou Avenue west into the heart of town. 3. Turn left (south) onto Ruxton Avenue. 4. Twin Spring is located in the vicinity of 306 Canon Avenue, near the intersection with Ruxton Avenue. Look for the spring fountain — it is a public fixture along the street and easy to spot as you explore the downtown spring loop. *Parking is available along the streets in downtown Manitou Springs, though it can be limited during peak tourist season. Consider arriving early or walking from a nearby lot.* ## What to Expect Twin Spring is one of several public mineral springs scattered throughout the walkable downtown area of Manitou Springs. Visitors will find a publicly accessible spout or fountain where you can taste and collect the naturally carbonated mineral water. The water has a distinctive mineral flavor — slightly salty and effervescent — that sets it apart from ordinary spring water. Many visitors enjoy doing a self-guided "spring loop" tour, walking from spring to spring through the charming streets of Manitou Springs and sampling the different mineral waters at each stop. Each spring has its own unique taste due to varying mineral compositions. Twin Spring is a favorite stop on this route. The spring is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. The surrounding town of Manitou Springs offers restaurants, shops, galleries, and easy access to attractions like the Manitou Incline, Garden of the Gods, and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Bringing a cup or water bottle is recommended so you can sample and compare the waters at multiple springs during your visit. For more detailed information about the mineral springs of Manitou Springs, the resource at stevegarufi.com/mineralsprings.htm has historically provided helpful background on each spring's mineral content and history.