Spence, Derrick, and Silers Shelters

“Is there a plentiful supply of (filterable) drinking water at the Spence Field, Derrick Knob, and Silers Bald - anybody know? If so, is the water easy to reach?

Thanks”

“Going from memory here...

Derrick Knob has a nice spring near the shelter.

Silers Bald shelter has what I would call a "seep" spring and at times you can find a place to dip a bottle. The spring is near the shelter.

Spence Field has a spring but I can't remember much about that one. - MDSHiker”

“The water source at Spence Field is down the Eagle Creek path a short ways right behind the shelter. Clear, cold and reliable.”

“Before you leave home for your trip, either call the park backcountry office to check for possible problems or check the information of the site at the link below. Any water problems should be mentioned near the bottom of the site page.
Temporary Road and Facilities Closures
Currently, no shelters are listed with water problems. Spence Field Shelter has a Bear Warning.
last edited: 10/30/06 9:40:20 PM”

“Yes, Yes, and Yes.

Bearbait covered Spence. Derrick Knob spring is down the south slope about 75 feet or so and has always flowed pretty well. I falls into a shallow depression but I have never had any problems filtering there even in late June and early July when it had been dry for a few weeks.

Silars shelter has a spring also on the south slope and the hogs have rooted it out a couple times. However it flows well and I have never seen it dry.

As wet as it has been this summer, I wouldn't be overly concerned about water at any of the three shelters.”

“That's great news. I'll pro'ly be up there in December - thanks again all.”