Intermittent Spring (Periodic Spring)
Afton, Wyoming
Hike
The Periodic spring is the largest of three intermittent springs in the world. From late August to May, the flow cycles on and off at regular, predictable intervals. The spring runs up to 100 cubic feet per second of clear, ice cold water for about 18 minutes. The water then begins to subside and gradually ceases altogether for 15-20minutes. The Spring is located approximately five miles East of Afton, Wyoming.
Getting there: a short, easy trail of about three-quarters of a mile leads to the spring from the trailhead five miles east of Afton, up Swift Creek Canyon. The path is wide and lightly graveled, narrowing near the end where it crosses a couple of logs before a footbridge over Swift Creek brings you to the spring. Picnic tables sit nearby and the shallow water is a fun place for kids to play. It is an easy enough walk that a stroller works to the point where the trail narrows. Expect company on summer weekends.
More Information
Periodic Spring, Afton, Wyoming
In the Salt River mountains near Afton in west Wyoming, Periodic Spring is one of the very few springs in the world that start and stop at regular intervals; reached by a 1 mile trail
https://www.americansouthwest.net/wyoming/periodic-spring/index.htmlBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Afton, Wyoming
- Head east on E 4th Ave toward Adams St (315 ft)
- Turn left at the 1st cross street onto Adams St (0.3 mi)
- Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto E 2nd Ave (0.7 mi)
- Continue onto Forest Rd 10211/Swift Creek Rd (1.1 mi)
- Turn left to stay on Forest Rd 10211/Swift Creek Rd (3.1 mi)
The Spring is located approximately five miles East of Afton, Wyoming.
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