Black Cube Spring, Cross Plains, Wisconsin

## Overview Black Cube Spring is a concrete-encapsulated natural spring located along Old Sauk Pass Road in Cross Plains, Wisconsin, within Dane County. Named for its distinctive cube-shaped opening, this roadside spring sits on a hillside and was once likely used as a public drinking water source for passersby. Cross Plains lies in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin — a geologically unique region that escaped the last glaciation, leaving behind deeply carved valleys, cold-water streams, and numerous natural springs fed by ancient aquifers filtering through layers of sandstone and dolomite. While the spring still flows, it currently shows signs of neglect and may be considered abandoned. The water inside the concrete enclosure is clear and visually appealing, though some surface debris has accumulated over time. The spigot at the bottom of the structure is partially blocked, allowing only a trickle of water to pass through, and the metal spout shows visible rust. Visitors have noted that the cube opening lacks a proper cover. Overall, the spring appears to be in need of restoration and reconstruction before it could serve reliably as a drinking water source again. ## Directions 1. From the village of Cross Plains, head west on Old Sauk Pass Road (also accessible from US-14). 2. As you drive uphill along Old Sauk Pass Road, watch for the spring on your **right side**. 3. If you are descending the hill (driving in the opposite direction), the spring will be on your **left side**. 4. The spring is located near the address **8119 Old Sauk Pass Road, Cross Plains, WI 53528**. 5. GPS coordinates: **43.081747, -89.613516** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring is a small roadside structure that can be easy to miss. ## What to Expect Black Cube Spring is a small, roadside spring enclosed in a concrete structure with a cube-shaped opening at the top. The setting is rural and quiet, nestled into the rolling hills characteristic of the Driftless Area. The spring water inside the enclosure appears clear and clean, though a thin layer of debris floats on the surface — a sign of the spring's current state of disuse. Water flow is minimal: the spigot at the base of the structure is largely blocked, and only a small trickle seeps through. The metal spout is noticeably rusty. Given these conditions, the spring is best appreciated as a historical curiosity and a glimpse into Wisconsin's tradition of roadside public springs rather than as a reliable water collection point. The water has not been recently tested, and the deteriorated infrastructure means it should not be assumed safe for drinking without proper treatment. There is no formal parking area — visitors typically pull off to the side of Old Sauk Pass Road. The spring is visible from the road and requires no hiking to reach. If you're exploring the area, nearby attractions include Cross Plains Ice Age National Scenic Trail segments and the Black Earth Creek, one of Wisconsin's premier trout streams. The spring is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may make the roadside stop more challenging.