Watridge Karst Spring (AKA Karst Springs)

## Overview Watridge Karst Spring — commonly known as Karst Springs — is a striking natural spring located in Spray Valley Provincial Park within Alberta's renowned Kananaskis Country. Situated at approximately 50.844°N, 115.427°W, this spring emerges from a karst geological formation, where water has dissolved underlying limestone and dolomite bedrock over thousands of years, carving underground channels before resurfacing as a powerful, crystal-clear spring. Karst springs are relatively rare geological features in the Canadian Rockies, making Watridge Karst Spring a notable destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and geology lovers alike. The spring is fed by snowmelt and glacial runoff that percolates through the porous carbonate rock of the surrounding mountains, filtering naturally before emerging at the surface. The water is typically very cold and remarkably clear, a hallmark of karst hydrology. Historically, karst springs in the Kananaskis region have been used as drinking water sources by backcountry travelers, and visitors have reported the water to be exceptionally clean-tasting, though conditions can vary seasonally. Spray Valley Provincial Park itself is a spectacular stretch of protected wilderness between Canmore and Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, offering dramatic mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife. Watridge Karst Spring is one of the park's hidden gems and a rewarding destination for those willing to make the trek. ## Directions 1. From Canmore, Alberta, head south on the Smith-Dorrien / Spray Lakes Trail (Highway 742) toward Spray Valley Provincial Park. 2. Continue along Highway 742, passing Spray Lakes Reservoir, and watch for the signed Watridge Lake trailhead on the west side of the road. 3. Park at the Watridge Lake trailhead parking area. 4. Follow the Watridge Lake Trail on foot. The trail leads through forested terrain toward Watridge Lake, and the karst spring is located along or near this route — look for signs or the distinctive emergence of water from the rocky ground. 5. The hike to the spring is generally moderate in difficulty and covers several kilometres. Allow adequate time for the round trip, especially in variable mountain weather. *Note: Highway 742 (Smith-Dorrien Trail) is a gravel road and may be subject to seasonal closures or rough conditions. Check current road and trail conditions with Alberta Parks before heading out.* ## What to Expect At Watridge Karst Spring, visitors will find water emerging directly from the limestone bedrock — a fascinating display of karst geology in action. The spring water is typically very cold and strikingly clear, with a blue-green tint characteristic of calcium-carbonate-rich karst systems. Flow rates can vary with the season, often peaking in late spring and early summer as snowmelt feeds the underground aquifer. The surrounding landscape is classic Canadian Rockies backcountry: dense coniferous forest, rugged mountain peaks, and the possibility of encountering wildlife such as elk, deer, and bears. The trail to the spring is generally well-maintained but can be muddy or snow-covered depending on the time of year. Summer (June through September) offers the most reliable access, though early-season visitors should be prepared for lingering snow at higher elevations. This is a backcountry destination with no developed facilities at the spring itself. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate footwear, layers, and supplies for a day hike in the mountains. The area is bear country — carrying bear spray and making noise on the trail is strongly recommended. The spring has historically been regarded as a source of clean drinking water by backcountry hikers, but water quality can fluctuate with weather and seasonal conditions, so visitors should exercise their own judgment regarding consumption.