Seven Minute Spring

Imagine a natural geyser that has been pulsing to the rhythm of the earth for decades. Seven Minute Spring is not just a point on the map of Colorado Springs, but a living monument to history and geology located in the cozy park of Manitou Springs. It earned its unusual name from a unique phenomenon: due to high carbon dioxide content, the water in the well would rise and erupt onto the surface exactly every seven minutes.

This mineral spring was drilled back in 1909 and has since been one of the gems of the USA in the field of balneological tourism. Today, it is one of the city's eight public springs, renowned for their rich mineral composition and healing properties. Unlike many other springs, the water here has a mild, refreshing taste, very close to regular drinking water, yet it is saturated with beneficial trace elements.

Nowadays, Seven Minute Spring is surrounded by a well-kept park with an elegant gazebo protecting the well. This place attracts travelers not only for the chance to touch natural magic but also for the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

For those planning a visit to Seven Minute Spring, it is helpful to have current contact information on hand. The site is maintained by the Mineral Springs Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the unique hydrological heritage of the region.

The main ritual that brings tourists here is, of course, tasting the healing mineral water. You are completely free to try the water directly from the source, so don't forget to bring an empty bottle or a cup. The local water is believed to have a unique balance of salts that has a beneficial effect on the body.

Beyond tasting, 7-Minute Spring Park is a wonderful place for aesthetic enjoyment. You can stroll through the sculpture gallery, relax in the shade of the ornate gazebo, or visit the open-air amphitheater. From here, you can enjoy inspiring views of the famous Pikes Peak, which serves as a perfect backdrop for photos.

For those who enjoy active and educational leisure, the spring is an excellent stop on a walking route encompassing all eight springs of Manitou Springs. A walk through the city's historic sites will show you how harmoniously the architecture of the past and the natural wealth of this region blend together.

Finding Seven Minute Spring is easy: it is located at 422 Washington Ave in Manitou Springs. This picturesque town is situated in the western part of Colorado Springs, right at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

If you are traveling by car from the city center, the drive will take about 20–30 minutes (a distance of approximately 15–20 km). There are parking spaces available near the park, making the visit very convenient.

For fans of public transport, there are regular bus routes connecting different parts of the city. You can also use taxi or rideshare services. The area around the spring is entirely pedestrian-friendly, so the walk from the nearest stop to the park will be a pleasant addition to your trip.

The history of this site began in 1909 when the well was drilled near the prestigious Manitou House hotel. The initial goal was to improve the park area, but the result exceeded expectations: due to high carbon dioxide content, pressurized water burst out, creating a natural geyser. The spring earned its name from its remarkable rhythm—eruptions occurred exactly every seven minutes.

In the 1920s, Seven Minute Spring became a commercially successful venture. The area was bustling with life: souvenir shops were opened, and a miniature railway was even built for the entertainment of tourists. However, by the mid-20th century, the site fell into disrepair, the wooden structures decayed, and the geyser's former glory began to fade.

The landmark found a new life in 1993 when it was transformed into a modern public park. Local artisans—Don Green, Maxine Green, and Bill Burgess—worked on its design. They created elegant fountains and a pavilion that stylistically references the original gazebos of the 1880s.

Today, Seven Minute Spring is an important part of the historical heritage of the USA and a symbol of the restoration of Colorado's resort traditions. The efforts of the Mineral Springs Foundation have preserved this natural artifact for future generations of travelers.

To leisurely explore Seven Minute Spring, taste the water, and take a few memorable photos, 30–45 minutes is usually sufficient. It is an ideal spot for a short break during a busy day of sightseeing.

However, if you decide to follow the complete route that includes all eight of the city's historic mineral springs, we recommend setting aside at least 2–3 hours for the walk. This walking tour will allow you to fully experience the unique resort atmosphere of this corner of Colorado Springs.

A pleasant feature of Seven Minute Spring is its accessibility: the park is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This allows you to plan your visit for an early morning walk in the rays of the rising sun or for a quiet evening of relaxation.

Despite the free access, we recommend checking the official website of the Mineral Springs Foundation before your trip to ensure there are no scheduled maintenance works or special events in the park.

Visiting the mineral spring is just part of a larger adventure. The surroundings of Manitou Springs are rich in amazing locations that allow you to dive deeper into the history and natural beauty of Colorado.

Exploring nearby attractions can significantly enrich your experience, turning a short stop into a full, action-packed day. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: