Attractions and Places To See around Cross Plains - Top 9

Cross Plains is rich in natural beauty, particularly its glacial landscapes. You can explore the unique terrain of the Cross Plains State Park, which features a gorge carved by meltwater and expansive views of both driftless and glaciated areas. The Indian Lake area also offers a lake, forests, and trails, with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail winding nearby. Additionally, the Middleton North Fork Trail at Confluence Pond provides scenic wetland views along Pheasant Branch.

Yes, you can step back in time by visiting the Farmhouse ruins, which are the remnants of an old farmstead. These desolate stone structures offer a glimpse into early Cross Plains history. The area also features the historic Old Stone Dental Building, constructed in 1849, though it is not a public attraction.

The region offers diverse outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail running through the area. You can find various running routes, such as the Indian Lake loop or the State Ice Age Trail Area loop, which you can explore further in the Running Trails around Cross Plains guide. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the Esser Pond loop, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Cross Plains guide.

Absolutely. Many trails and natural areas are suitable for families. The Turtle Watch Bridge is a favorite, where you can often spot dozens of turtles from April into the fall. The Indian Lake area is also family-friendly, offering hiking trails, picnic spots, and a sledding hill in winter. The Pheasant Branch–Hwy 12 Trail Junction and Middleton North Fork Trail at Confluence Pond are also noted as family-friendly.

For easy hikes, consider segments of the Ice Age Trail, such as the Cross Plains Segment, or the Cross Plains Interpretive Loop. These trails offer accessible options for enjoying the natural scenery. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Cross Plains guide.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a thousand-mile footpath showcasing Wisconsin's glacial landscapes. A significant segment runs directly through Cross Plains. You can access it at various points, including the Indian Lake area and the Cross Plains Interpretive Site, which serves as a gateway and provides educational resources.

Yes, The Turtle Watch Bridge is specifically known for offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for observing dozens of turtles from April through fall. The scenic wetlands along Pheasant Branch, accessible via the Middleton North Fork Trail at Confluence Pond, also provide opportunities to see local fauna.

Spring through fall offers excellent conditions for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn being particularly scenic for rural drives and walks. Winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on trails around Indian Lake, which also has a popular sledding hill.

The Pheasant Branch–Hwy 12 Trail Junction is noted as being wheelchair accessible, connecting multiple trails and offering a convenient resting point.

Black Earth Creek, which meanders through the town, is renowned for excellent trout fishing, offering picturesque landscapes alongside recreational opportunities.

Visitors appreciate the diverse trail network, especially the connections offered by spots like the Pheasant Branch–Hwy 12 Trail Junction, which serves as a significant cyclist hub with nearby businesses and a Dero Fix-It station. The opportunity to observe wildlife, such as the turtles at The Turtle Watch Bridge, is also a highlight for many.

Cross Plains is situated within the unique Driftless Area, characterized by scenic hills, valleys, and limestone bluffs that were untouched by glacial activity. The Cross Plains State Park specifically showcases impressive glacial landforms, including a gorge carved by meltwater, offering views of both driftless and glaciated terrain.