I’ve been filling up my water bottle at Matrimony Springs since I was a child. It was tradition and necessity. The spring has been flowing for over 80 years with some controversies and one closure in that time. The spring naturally comes through a rock aquifer, before spilling out onto a makeshift plastic piece designed to funnel water into your jug.

History

There used to be a pipe that was illegally installed, before being removed and temporarily closed due to too much coliform in the run off. This caused outrage in the town in 2009 and continues to be a hot topic for those living in the area. Residents who live in Castle Valley use this spring to supplement other water supplies they have and closing it could be disastrous for them.

For now, it remains open to the public with talk of future plans to add a spring box.

The history of this spring is hard to track down. No one seems to know where the name comes from, most of the older generation recalls that it was always called that, with a few different theories. One common  thread is that if you drink the water, you’ll forever be in love with Moab and always finding a way to get back. Check out this fun Moab Happenings Archive about the name here.

Safety

Drink at your own risk, but the city does test it a few times a year. Currently it is safe for human consumption.

Stop by and make it your own tradition. The parking gets hard on busy weekends, you might even have to wait in line, but drinking from a pure form in nature is not something you always get to do.

Located on Hwy 128, right off hwy 191 about 100 yards on the right side.

Check out my other Moab Recommendations through the eyes of a local here!