Explore the Beautiful 100-Foot Cascading Fresh Spring in Guttenberg

Weekend adventures are a big part of what we like to do at our house. Living in the driftless region has provided my family with ample opportunities to explore, adventure, and experience new and beautiful places. That being said, there is one area in particular that I just have to visit if my family is trekking north on US 52. All it takes is a quick stop in Guttenberg along their Great River Road at a place called Big Springs Nature Park.

When it comes to big things wrapped in a small package, this place packs a serious punch. The park is relatively small, covering just 11 acres of land, but what you'll find contained is pure nature splendor. Picture a small spring fed stream that follows a 100-foot slope of cascading limestone bedrock.

The trail is well-cared for and follows along the above the right section of the stream until you reach the springs source itself. Now over the years and visits, I've watched this area change. Wind and rain continue to reveal even more of the bubbling spring. When my wife and I first visited the location the source of water seemed to be coming from an old iron pipe that fed into a small cement cistern.

Water still flows from the old and now quite rusted pipe, but even more of the natural spring has been revealed. It seems to simply bubble from the side of the bluff and begin its cascading fall towards the mighty Mississippi river.

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Walking the trail itself up and back might only take you a total of 30 minutes, but the visit is well worth it. In fact, most of that time will be spent taking photos and gawking at the natural wonder. Think of this location like nature condensed: no matter the season of your visit, you're sure to enjoy an epic experience in a very short amount of time. Keep scrolling for more pictures of Big Springs Nature Park and then plan a visit of your own.

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