Harding Spring
A natural spring in Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona, offering crisp, pure water straight from the earth. A refreshing roadside gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Harding Spring
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural spring in Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona, offering crisp, pure water straight from the earth. A refreshing roadside gem.
"Experience crisp, pure spring water straight from the source — a natural oasis tucked away in Sedona’s red rocks."
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tight, especially during busy seasons. Park across the street if possible.
💧 Bring Your Own Containers
If you plan to fill up, bring your own jugs or bottles for the refreshing spring water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Spring
Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, AZ
Experience crisp, pure water flowing directly from the earth. A refreshing stop for hikers and nature lovers.
+1
Overlook Trail & Fairy Doors
Above the spring
Discover hidden fairy doors on trees along a small trail above the spring. A whimsical find for all ages.
Historic Stone Spring Box
Highway 89A, near mile marker 385
See the historic stone structure where cool, fresh water emerges from a deep underground aquifer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Harding Spring
What to Bring for Harding Spring
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tight, especially during busy seasons. Park across the street if possible.
💧 Bring Your Own Containers
If you plan to fill up, bring your own jugs or bottles for the refreshing spring water.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the natural beauty with comfortable footwear.
🐶 Doggie Station Available
A convenient dog station is available, making it a great stop for travelers with pets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tight, especially during busy seasons. Park across the street if possible.
💧 Bring Your Own Containers
If you plan to fill up, bring your own jugs or bottles for the refreshing spring water.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the natural beauty with comfortable footwear.
🐶 Doggie Station Available
A convenient dog station is available, making it a great stop for travelers with pets.
🗺️ Easy to Miss Turnout
It's a small turnout off Highway 89A, so keep an eye out to avoid missing this gem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Harding Spring is praised for its refreshing, natural water and peaceful atmosphere, making it a unique roadside attraction. Visitors appreciate the convenience of filling water bottles and the charming fairy doors on the nearby trail. However, parking can be limited, and some reviews caution about the direct consumption of the water.
"We were excited to add this spring to our list of "found" springs along our little hike through downtown Eureka Springs. It was fully shaded, lots of cool spots to explore around it. There's some cool stairs to the right of it that will take you to a small trail overhead where you can spot several small fairy doors on the trees along the trail. There's some really neat looking locks up above on the railing along the bluff. Beautiful, peaceful spot with a cool dog station and park bench. Parking located across the street for travelers to take a break, and there's a trolley stop across the street as well for those wanting to catch a ride to the next stop."
Tena Jones (Explored and Conquered)
"Beautiful location, it was so calming and peaceful… Best to walk there because everything is so close by… numerous hiking trails near there as well!"
Miriam Angulo
"In the heart of the historic loop in eureka springs, this is a must visit destination! Park across the street if you can and walk over to harding spring. They have a doggie station which is great after a long drive from Fayetteville, but totally worth it. And stella loved it!"
troy kelley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harding Spring is located in Oak Creek Canyon, right off State Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff, Arizona. Look for a small turnout near mile marker 385.
While there's a mention of Harding Spring in Eureka Springs, the prominent natural spring known for its water is located in Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona, near Sedona.
The spring is easily accessible from a turnout on Highway 89A. For a more immersive experience, consider walking from nearby parking areas if you're exploring the historic loop.
Absolutely! It's a perfect roadside pit stop to refill water bottles and stretch your legs while driving through the scenic Oak Creek Canyon.
While the spring itself is roadside, there are numerous hiking trails nearby in Oak Creek Canyon that can lead you to or from the spring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Harding Spring is a natural spring open to the public, and there is no entrance fee to access or fill up water.
As a natural spring, Harding Spring is accessible year-round, 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No tickets are required for Harding Spring. It's a natural attraction that anyone can visit freely.
While many visitors drink the water and find it refreshing, one review mentioned a sign stating it's not safe for contact or drinking. It's advisable to exercise caution or use purification methods if you have concerns.
The spring area typically includes a historic stone spring box for filling water and sometimes a park bench. A dog station is also noted.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique stone spring box, the clear water flowing, and the surrounding natural beauty of Oak Creek Canyon. The overlook trail also offers interesting perspectives.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location. It's best to check local rules for Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona before flying a drone.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide softer, diffused light. Consider the season for foliage colors.
Yes, the fairy doors on the overlook trail are a unique photographic subject. Be respectful of the natural environment when taking pictures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography might require permits, and always be mindful of other visitors.
🎫 💧 Water Quality & Filling
Yes, Harding Spring is known for its fresh, crisp drinking water, and visitors often bring containers to fill up.
People travel from up to three hours away to collect water from Harding Spring, highlighting its reputation for quality.
The spring taps into a deep underground aquifer, naturally filtering the water. However, some reviews suggest caution regarding drinking directly from it.
Bringing larger jugs or multiple bottles is recommended if you plan to take a significant amount of water back with you.
The spring is described as free-flowing and providing water year-round, indicating a consistent flow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The small trail above the spring with the fairy doors is particularly enchanting for younger visitors and adds an element of discovery. Parking can be a bit challenging, so consider visiting during off-peak hours. The area is generally safe for a brief stop, but always supervise children closely, especially near the water and on any trails. The nearby dog station is also a bonus for families traveling with pets.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Be prepared for limited parking, especially during peak travel times. If you're planning a longer excursion in Oak Creek Canyon, Harding Spring can be a convenient spot to start or end your day, offering a taste of the region's natural resources.
💧 Water Enthusiasts & Naturalists
+1While the spring is a natural phenomenon, it's important to be mindful of its conservation and to follow any posted guidelines regarding water consumption. The surrounding Oak Creek Canyon also offers a rich environment for nature observation and appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Wonder of Harding Spring
+2The spring is easily accessible via a small turnout on the side of State Route 89A, making it a convenient stop for those driving between Sedona and Flagstaff. The water emerges from a historic stone spring box, a testament to its long-standing presence and utility. While many enjoy drinking the water directly, it's always wise to be aware of local advisories regarding water safety.
Beyond its primary function as a water source, Harding Spring offers a moment of tranquility amidst the stunning red rock landscape. It's a place where visitors can pause, recharge, and connect with the natural environment. The surrounding area also provides opportunities for short walks and exploration, adding to the overall experience.
+1Exploring the Surroundings of Harding Spring
This overlook trail provides a different perspective of the spring and its surroundings. Visitors have also noted interesting locks attached to the railing along the bluff, hinting at the stories and memories left behind by previous travelers. The natural setting is peaceful and shaded, making it a pleasant spot to spend a little extra time.
Furthermore, Harding Spring is situated in the heart of Oak Creek Canyon, an area rich with hiking opportunities. Numerous trails are accessible nearby, catering to various skill levels. This makes Harding Spring an ideal starting or ending point for a day of hiking and outdoor adventure in the Sedona and Flagstaff region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit