It’s not hard to find things to do in Wisconsin, especially during the summer and fall. Wisconsin is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with ample opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and more, and the scenery is unbelievably beautiful. One of the best ways to get out and enjoy Wisconsin’s diverse landscapes is to hike. If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Wisconsin, don’t miss the epic Ice Age Trail.
Not only is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin a breathtaking journey through some of the state’s most scenic areas, but it’s also a testament to this area’s history and a chance to explore the forces that have shaped this rugged part of the Midwest in detail. The Ice Age Trail can easily be considered the crown jewel of hikes in Wisconsin. This National Scenic Trail spans over a thousand miles and is one of the most picturesque hikes in the Midwest. The trail offers hikers a unique journey through the remnants of the Ice Age on lands that were formed thousands of years ago. From dense forests to open prairies and striking geological formations, hikers will enjoy diverse terrain, panoramic views, tranquil woodlands, and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
While hiking the Ice Age Trail is an unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts, it’s just one of the many things waiting for you in Wisconsin this summer and fall. From kayaking on the sparkling waters of the Apostle Islands to cycling through the scenic Elroy-Sparta State Trail, Wisconsin provides countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Discover Wisconsin’s top state parks, spend your days on the water, get off the beaten path, explore scenic areas you’ve never heard of, enjoy vibrant summer festivals, and unwind in our vibrant towns and cities. Wisconsin is the perfect place for adventure and relaxation.
When it’s time to put your feet up and relax, there’s no better place to stay in Wisconsin than one of our association member properties. Our association includes a welcoming network of Bed and Breakfasts, Inns, Cabins, and vacation rentals in Wisconsin, many of which are on or near segments of the Ice Age Trail. These Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin provide the perfect retreat after a long day on the trail, not to mention personalized and friendly hospitality. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a well-appointed room, a hearty breakfast, and the insider knowledge of local hosts who can offer insights into the area. Book your getaways and get ready for an epic adventure through the Ice Age.
History of the Ice Age Trail
Though it’s home to some of the best hikes in Wisconsin, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is so much more than a place to hit the trails. The trail is a beautiful testament to the state’s geological and environmental history, stretching back over 12,000 years to the last glacial period. For many, the first thought that comes to mind when thinking of the Midwest is that it’s flat – and maybe that it has a lot of lakes. While there are certainly thousands of lakes and rivers across the Midwest, and there are parts of it that are flat, the Midwest is anything but that dull depiction. That is especially true along segments of the Ice Age Trail.
Understanding Wisconsin’s geological history is vital to understanding the unique and diverse landscapes you’ll find here. It’s a state carved out by the retreat of glaciers. The most recent ice age ended about 12,000 years ago, and as these massive glaciers that once covered the Midwest retreated, they did so unevenly. Those areas that were untouched by glaciers, such as Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, are uncharacteristically hilly and feature dramatic bluffs and deep valleys. The Ice Age Trail does a fantastic job walking you through this history.
Conceived in the 1950s by Milwaukeean Ray Zillmer, the goal of creating the Ice Age National Scenic Trail was to create a long-distance trek that would follow the terminal moraine of the last continental glacier and thus offer a unique window into the ancient past. The trail was officially established as a National Scenic Trail in 1980 and has since grown to now span 1,200+ miles and showcases a diverse array of landscapes sculpted by glacial activity.
The Ice Age Trail draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the country and meanders through varied terrains, including dense forests, open prairies, and picturesque farmlands. Each segment offers its own distinct charm and unique geological features, such as eskers, kames, and drumlins. These trail segments do a remarkable job of telling the story of Mother Nature’s immense power and provide access to some of Wisconsin’s best biodiversity. With so many things to see and do along the Ice Age Trail, it’s no wonder these trail segments are considered some of the best hikes in Wisconsin.
Perhaps more importantly than offering endless opportunities for hiking, the Ice Age Trail is an important conservation tool that safeguards diverse habitats across Wisconsin while also promoting environmental stewardship. Today, the Ice Age Trail offers a profound connection to the Earth’s ancient past and an unprecedented opportunity to explore the wonders of the Wisconsin wilderness.
Discover the Best Hikes in Wisconsin: Our Favorite Trail Segments
Traveling through more than 30 counties and across private land, city parks, state parks, county forests, and national forests, the Ice Age Trail offers an unprecedented connection between Wisconsin’s rugged terrain and the vibrant communities you’ll find along the way. The Ice Age Trail begins at its western end in Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls and ends on the eastern end at Potawatomi State Park in Door County’s Sturgeon Bay. Along the way, it travels through nineteen cities that have chosen to be recognized as an Ice Age Trail Community – and it’s these communities where you’ll find lodging at the top Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts, cabins, and more.
If you’re ready for an epic journey, it’s time to pick a trail segment and get to hiking in Wisconsin. Though the trail meanders through the state for 1,200 miles, only about half of it consists of yellow-blazed Ice Age Trail segments. The remaining portion of the routes consists of unmarked connecting routes. Though we love every inch of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, we’ve listed five of the best trail segments below, which take you through the diversity of landscapes you’ll encounter.
Best Segments of the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin:
- Starting at the trail’s western terminus is the St. Croix Falls Segment. This segment is shy of 9 miles long and offers stunning views of the St. Croix River and the Dalles of the St. Croix. It features impressive rock formations and waterfalls and connects up to the Gandy Dancer Trail Segment, a 15-mile segment that uses the popular multi-use Gandy Dancer State Trail, which also just so happens to be one of our favorite bike trails in Wisconsin. Access to this part of the trail starts at Interstate State Park’s Pothole Trail, which is one of Wisconsin’s oldest recreational footpaths.
- One of the most popular segments of the Ice Age Trail is the Devil’s Lake Segment in the beautiful Baraboo Hills. This part of the trail passes through the popular Devil’s Lake State Park and features dramatic 500-foot quartzite bluffs and expansive views of Devil’s Lake. It is challenging, with rocky terrain and steep climbs, but the breathtaking vistas are more than worth the effort. Another great segment in the area is the Lodi Marsh Segment.
- If you’re looking for a single destination that showcases evidence of the Ice Age, head to the Northern Kettle Moraine State Forest portion of the Ice Age Trail. Here, you’ll find several trail segments worth exploring, including the Parnell Segment, the Milwaukee River Segment, and others. The area formed when two tongue-shaped ice sheets collided and receded, leaving behind the characteristic kettles and moraines. Known for its rolling hills and dense forests, this area showcases these characteristic glacial formations, such as the Parnell Esker, Greenbush Kettle, and the Dundee Kame.
- The Chippewa Moraine Segment is one of the best hikes in Wisconsin. This part of the trail is renowned for its pristine glacial landscapes and takes hikers through a series of ice-walled lake plains and kettle lakes. It also passes through the North Shattuck Lake State Natural Area, an area well-known as a birding paradise. Apart from excellent opportunities to watch birds and other wildlife, this segment traverses beautiful undulating terrain as it passes the lakes, affording hikers a picturesque afternoon on the trails.
- If you’re looking for dramatic coastal views and walks through Lake Michigan’s sand dunes, head to the Manitowoc and Two Rivers segment of the Ice Age Trail. Start this journey at Point Beach State Forest and traverse some dunes before passing the Rawley Point Lighthouse to the shores of Lake Michigan. From there, continue south through Two Rivers into Woodland Dunes State Nature Center and Preserve. There, you’ll find a stunning network of marshland, swamps, sandy meadows, and wooded ridges before once again ending at a more urban section of the trail in Manitowoc.
- Finally, end your trail at the Sturgeon Bay Segment. This segment is the eastern terminus of the trail for a reason. Not only does it showcase Door County’s exceptional beauty, but it also offers a dramatic taste of all elements found along the entire Ice Age Trail. It starts with a rail trail hike before heading into an urban section of the trail and then ends in a beautiful, forested part of Potawatomi State Park. With such stunning landscapes to enjoy, it’s easily one of the best hikes in Wisconsin.
Find Unique Places to Stay Along the Trail
Whether you’re just looking for simple day hikes or long backpacking treks, it’s easy to see why the Ice Age Trail is considered one of the best hikes in Wisconsin, let alone the Midwest. After a long day on the trails, put your feet up and enjoy the finer comforts of your trip. There’s no better place to stay in Wisconsin than one of our association members. Many of the top Wisconsin Inns are located on or near trail segments, including those we’ve mentioned here – and these trail segments are just a small part of what you can enjoy during your Wisconsin getaways!
Choose to stay among our collection of Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts, Boutique Hotels, and Cabins, and you’ll enjoy an authentic slice of Wisconsin hospitality. Our dedication to excellence is unmatched, with our independent lodging properties offering one-of-a-kind lodging experiences that you won’t find in standard hotel chains and impersonal rentals like Airbnb or VRBO. Our collection of lodging properties is diverse, too, including everything from urban vacation rentals and working farms to historic estates and solitary cabins.
Whether on a solo adventure or traveling with your family, there’s no better place to stay in Wisconsin than our Inns. We’ll treat you to the comforts of home and an authentic slice of the Midwest. Wisconsin is a spectacular four-season destination, but this summer and fall are rife with opportunities for adventure. From the meandering waters of the Mighty Mississippi to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, a Midwest getaway is the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the best of it. Book your stay at one of our exceptional Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin today.
