Unwinding in Wisconsin's Natural Springs
Wisconsin, known for its cheese curds and Green Bay Packers, hides a surprising secret beneath its rolling hills and lush forests - a network of natural springs, whispering tales of relaxation and rejuvenation.
From 1868 - 1918, Waukesha, WI was considered the capital of the mineral spring water industry, and the influx in tourists and bottling plants soon propped up the city's name, making it a destination for the rich and famous.
In 2017, the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey completed an inventory of springs in Wisconsin - more than 400 total. This awesome viewer shows the locations and water quality for each.
At Chula Vista Resort on the banks of the Wisconsin River, the outdoor hot springs includes a large outdoor whirlpool, heated decks and a two-story adobe fireplace, perfect for warming up on a winter day.
Lesser-known gems like Cascade Falls and Moccasin Springs for a more secluded experience.
Hike through the Black Hills to reach the secluded Cascade Falls, featuring a natural pool amidst cascading waters.
Mt. Olympus is a large water park with both indoor and outdoor areas. This park features two hot spring-like pools, the Divine Warming Pool and the Fire Pool.
The Best Time to Go
Each season offers its own unique charm at Wisconsin's springs:
Spring and fall: Enjoy mild temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds. Ideal for hikes and scenic drives to reach secluded springs.
Summer: Escape the heat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of popular resorts. Be prepared for larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Winter: Experience the magic of soaking in steaming pools amidst snow-covered landscapes. Some springs like Moccasin Springs remain accessible year-round for the adventurous.
The habitats created by springs often harbor endangered and threatened species, such as the Hine’s emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana), which are dependent on the flow of spring water for survival.
Chula Vista Resort
Chula Vista Resort has over 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor waterparks, stunning Wisconsin River views, and top-rated amenities like Kaminski’s Chophouse, championship 18-hole golf course, and impressive meeting facilities if you need to sneak in some work. Shh we won’t tell!
Enjoy 27 exhilarating waterslides stretching over 1.5 miles long. Chula Vista Resort’s large outdoor whirlpool offers heated concrete decks and a two-story adobe fireplace while you relax and enjoy the calming waters and natural surroundings.
I love that Chula Vista Resort is proud to be Wyndham Green Certified.
Mt. Olympus
Mt. Olympus is a large water park with both indoor and outdoor areas. This park features two hot spring-like pools, the Divine Warming Pool and the Fire Pool. The Divine Warming pool is open to ages 11 and up, has warm, soothing water, and is surrounded by calm music. The Fire Pool is for adults only (18 and up), and is a large Greek-themed whirlpool with hot water, relaxing jets, and rushing waterfalls.
Sundara Spa
This spa provides hot spring like baths as part of their spa services. Sundara is Sanskrit for “beautiful” and they interpret that as beautiful on the inside and out.
They are adult-only and electronics-free in common areas for tranquility.
CBD Bath Treatment
The products used in this bath treatment have been specially selected for their pain relief and
anti-inflammatory qualities, with the therapist focusing on pinpoint pain areas such as knees, ankles and hands. Creams and oils also promote natural healing and anti-aging. The service includes exfoliation, a relaxing soak, and full-body hydration.
Signature Salt Bath Treatment
Immerse yourself in all things Sundara. This treatment begins with exfoliation of the skin, followed by a luxurious bath soak, and then full body hydration to conclude the service.
Mother-To-Be Bath and Massage
Both pampering and relaxing, this treatment begins with a whirlpool bath (at a temperature safe for both mom and baby), followed by a customized full-body massage using calming essential oil.
Just a short drive from Wisconsin Dells is the Wollersheim Winery. Built in the 1840s, this hillside vineyard offers spectacular views to the Wisconsin River Valley below.
The Wisconsin Dells area is home to three state parks – Devil’s Lake, Mirror Lake and Rocky Arbor — and these are real gems for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail at Devil’s Lake State Park is a must for hikers.
The International Crane Foundation wildlife refuge is the only place in the world where you can see all 15 species of cranes. An open-air amphitheater opens onto a pond and tall grasses where it’s not unusual to see crane parents tending to their chick.
Wilderness Resort
Wilderness Resort is one of the largest waterpark resorts in Wisconsin and has a scenic man-made hot spring. This is a great option for families, as parents can enjoy the calming, warm waters of the hot springs, while the kids have fun sliding down the waterslides at the waterpark.
The hot spring is located in the Wilderness on the Lake portion of the resort. It features the Vanishing Edge Lagoon infinity pool and an indoor/outdoor hot spa that is an ideal place to relax.
American Club Resort
For the ultimate luxurious experience, visit the American Club Resort. This 5-star resort is located an hour north of Milwaukee and provides everything you need to relax and rejuvenate your senses. The resort features the Kohler Waters Spa, which combines the relaxation of a hot spring with luxury spa services.
The spa uses a Hydrotherapy Circuit that is designed to help reduce muscle tension, relieve pain, boost your immune system, and relieve stress. It includes a heated whirlpool, cold plunge, relaxation pool, sauna, and steam room. Another highlight is their rooftop whirlpool, which provides panoramic views.
