Potosi Bluffs Roadside Spring, Potosi, WI 53820

## Overview Potosi Bluffs Roadside Spring is a charming natural spring tucked at the base of a towering sandstone cliff just south of the village of Potosi in Grant County, Wisconsin. Situated along the scenic Mississippi River corridor, this small but steady spring has long served as a refreshing stop for travelers exploring the bluffs and backroads of southwestern Wisconsin. The water emerges directly from the sandstone formation — part of the ancient Paleozoic bedrock that defines the Driftless Area, a region famously untouched by the last glaciation. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, and a cup has been attached near the cliff edge for passersby to take a drink. Potosi itself is one of Wisconsin's oldest communities, with roots in the lead-mining boom of the 1830s and 1840s. The village's name derives from the famed silver-mining city of Potosí in Bolivia, reflecting the mineral wealth once found in these hills. The spring sits along what is now designated a Rustic Road — one of Wisconsin's officially recognized scenic byways — where the high sandstone bluffs and sweeping views of the Mississippi River make for a memorable drive or walk. ## Directions 1. From the center of Potosi, WI, head south on **Main Street**. 2. Continue as Main Street transitions into **River Lane Road**, following the road southward along the Mississippi River. 3. As you travel this old **Rustic Road**, watch for the high sandstone cliffs rising on your right (west) side. The spring is located at the base of one of these bluffs. 4. **Important:** Pullover parking directly at the spring is not permitted — the road is quite narrow here, having been cut into the hillside, and there is not enough room to safely stop a vehicle. 5. Instead, park near **Potosi Point** (a short distance farther along the road) and walk back to the spring on foot. The spring will be on your left as you walk back northward. 6. Look for the cup attached near the cliff edge just off the roadside — this marks the spring's location. *GPS coordinates: 42.664449, -90.72267 — The nearest address is approximately 4463 Winkler Lane, Potosi, WI 53820.* ## What to Expect The spring itself is modest in size — a gentle flow of water seeping from the exposed sandstone bluff face. A cup has been placed at the spring for visitors, a tradition common at roadside springs throughout the Driftless Area. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travelers, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and has not been independently verified. The setting is the real showstopper. The Rustic Road hugs the base of dramatic sandstone cliffs, with the broad Mississippi River stretching out to the east. The scenery is especially striking in autumn when the bluffs are framed by fall foliage, but the drive and walk are worthwhile in any season. The narrow road carved into the hillside gives the area a rugged, old-world feel. Because the road is narrow and parking at the spring itself is not allowed, plan to park at Potosi Point and enjoy a short, easy walk to the spring. The walk is flat and follows the road, so no special footwear or gear is needed. This is a quick, rewarding stop that pairs well with a visit to the nearby National Brewery Museum in Potosi or a longer drive along the Great River Road.