Wheden Spring, Shell, Wyoming, 82441

## Overview Wheden Spring is a public drinking spring located near the small community of Shell in Big Horn County, Wyoming. Situated along the scenic US Route 14 Alternate (also known as the Shell Canyon route), this roadside spring offers a convenient stop for travelers exploring the western foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. The spring flows from a steel pipe, delivering a steady stream of naturally sourced water that has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and passersby alike. The spring sits at an elevation consistent with the Bighorn Mountain foothills, in an area shaped by ancient geological forces — the same forces that carved nearby Shell Canyon and exposed millions of years of rock formations. Shell Canyon and the surrounding area are well known for their dramatic limestone cliffs and natural water features, making Wheden Spring one of several natural water sources in the region. ## Directions 1. From the town of Shell, Wyoming, head east on US Route 14 Alternate (Shell Canyon Road) toward the Bighorn Mountains. 2. Watch for the spring on the **northeast side** of the road. 3. The spring flows from a steel pipe and is visible from the roadside. 4. GPS coordinates: **44.747462, -107.69037** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring can be easy to miss if you're not watching for it. ## What to Expect Wheden Spring is a simple, roadside spring that flows continuously from a steel pipe. The setup is utilitarian — there are no elaborate structures or signage — but the water flow is reliable and easy to access. Visitors can pull over along US-14 Alternate and fill containers directly from the pipe. The surrounding landscape is classic western Wyoming: rolling foothills, open rangeland, and views toward the rugged Bighorn Mountains. The drive along US-14 Alternate through Shell Canyon is itself a highlight, with towering canyon walls and Shell Falls — a popular scenic stop — located further up the road. As with any natural spring, water conditions can vary with the seasons. Spring runoff and heavy rains may affect water clarity. While this spring has been historically used as a drinking water source by the local community and travelers, water quality has not been independently verified. Visitors who wish to drink from the spring may want to take their own precautions. Wheden Spring makes for a worthwhile stop on any drive through Shell Canyon, whether you're topping off water bottles or simply stretching your legs along one of Wyoming's most scenic byways.