Ward Spring, Ward, CO

## Overview Ward Spring is a public drinking spring located in the small mountain town of Ward, Colorado, nestled in Boulder County at an elevation of roughly 9,450 feet along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Ward itself is one of Colorado's most characterful high-altitude communities — a tiny, unincorporated former mining town with a population of just a few hundred residents. The spring has long served as a local water source, and residents continue to rely on it as part of daily life in this remote mountain setting. According to a local resident, the water is chlorinated only once a year and is routinely tested for purity and health. While this suggests the community takes water quality seriously, visitors should be aware that independent verification of current test results is always a good idea before consuming any natural water source. ## Directions 1. From Boulder, head west on Canyon Boulevard (CO-119) toward Nederland — a scenic drive of about 17 miles through Boulder Canyon. 2. In Nederland, turn right (north) onto CO-72 (the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway). 3. Continue north on CO-72 for approximately 5 miles until you reach the small town of Ward. 4. Once in Ward, look for Boston Street and Utica Street — the spring is located near the intersection of these roads, on the right side of the road. 5. GPS coordinates: 40.070881, -105.506134. Ward is a very small town, so the spring should be relatively easy to spot once you arrive. Parking is limited, so be mindful of local residents and avoid blocking any roads or driveways. ## What to Expect Ward Spring is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. The spring can be found on the right side of the road near Boston Street and Utica Street. It is a well-known and frequently used water source among Ward locals, which speaks to its longstanding role in the community. Because Ward sits at nearly 9,500 feet in elevation, visitors should be prepared for mountain weather conditions at any time of year. Winters can be harsh with significant snowfall, and even summer evenings can be quite cool. The drive up from Nederland along the Peak to Peak Byway is stunningly beautiful, passing through dense pine forests with views of the Continental Divide — making the trip to Ward Spring a rewarding outing even beyond the water itself. The town of Ward has a rustic, off-the-grid character that many visitors find charming. There are no major amenities in town, so plan accordingly — bring what you need and leave no trace. If you're filling containers, be courteous to locals who depend on the spring as a regular water source.