White Sulfur Spring

## Overview White Sulfur Spring is a naturally occurring sulfur spring located near Mount Airy in Surry County, North Carolina. As its name suggests, the spring produces sulfur-rich water, which historically has been associated with therapeutic and mineral bathing traditions across the Appalachian region. The spring sits in the rolling foothills near the Ararat River, an area long known for its mineral water sources. A dedicated website at whitesulphurspringsnc.com provides additional local information about the site. Surry County and the Mount Airy area are nestled along the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a geological zone where ancient metamorphic and igneous rock formations allow mineral-laden groundwater to reach the surface. Sulfur springs like this one occur where water passes through sulfur-bearing rock layers deep underground before emerging at the surface, often carrying a distinctive mineral scent and taste. ## Directions 1. Head to **106 Hillside Trail, Mount Airy, NC 27030** — this is the nearest address to the spring. 2. From the entrance area near the Ararat River, the spring itself is located approximately **a quarter mile to the southwest**. Look for the spring set back from the river access point. 3. **GPS Coordinates:** 36.54194982, -80.57256103 — use these for precise navigation, as the spring is not directly at the road entrance. *Note: The spring is situated on private property. Visitors should check current access conditions and respect any posted signage before approaching.* ## What to Expect White Sulfur Spring is a free-access natural hot spring in a scenic area of the North Carolina foothills. The surrounding landscape features the wooded terrain and gentle hills typical of the Ararat River valley. Expect the characteristic sulfur aroma common to mineral springs of this type — a sign of the water's natural mineral content. Because the spring is located roughly a quarter mile from the nearest road access, visitors should be prepared for a short walk over natural terrain. Footwear suitable for uneven or potentially muddy ground is recommended. The Ararat River is nearby, making this a pleasant area to explore beyond just the spring itself. As with all natural springs, water conditions can vary with the seasons and weather. The water has historically been valued for its mineral properties, but visitors should be aware that no formal water quality testing results are publicly available for this site.