Manitou Mineral Springs

Manitou Mineral Springs consist of eight natural springs distributed throughout downtown Manitou Springs that discharge carbonated water enriched with minerals from limestone aquifers originating near Pikes Peak. The water emerges at different locations and is easily accessible to visitors.

The springs held sacred meaning for the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne before European settlement. In the 19th century, settlers recognized their healing potential and established a resort destination starting in 1871.

The springs draw locals and visitors who believe in the healing properties of the mineral water, particularly because of its carbonation and dissolved minerals. Drinking or bathing in the water remains part of a living local tradition today.

The local visitor center provides detailed maps showing the exact location of each spring, with information about mineral composition at each site. Using these maps helps visitors locate all the springs in an organized way.

Seven Minute Spring discharges water in regular intervals because natural geological pressure beneath the surface triggers this cyclic activity. This makes the spring a fascinating phenomenon to observe.