The Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin is a remarkable hiking trail that stretches across the state for over 1,200 miles. The trail is located within the impressive Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) which manages and maintains this beautiful wilderness area.
The Ice Age Trail is named after the numerous glaciers that carved the landscape during the last Ice Age. It meanders through striking natural features such as glacial hills, rock formations, and picturesque lakes, showcasing the state's stunning geological history. The trail also highlights the region's unique flora and fauna, providing a great opportunity for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems.
Visitors to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail have a multitude of activities to enjoy. Along the trail, hikers can experience stunning vistas, tranquil forests, and delightful wildlife encounters. The trail is divided into several segments, making it accessible for hikers of varying skill levels and interests. Whether one chooses to hike a short section or challenges themselves to complete the entire trail, there are numerous camping and resting spots available along the way.
In addition to hiking, the Ice Age Trail offers various recreational activities. Cyclists can enjoy biking along some sections of the trail, while cross-country skiers and snowshoers can delight in exploring the trail during the winter months. The trail also provides unique opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and simply enjoying the breathtaking natural beauty that Wisconsin has to offer.
Aside from the trail itself, there are several attractions located nearby that visitors can explore. For history buffs, the Ice Age Visitor Center near Cross Plains provides interpretive exhibits about the Ice Age and natural history of the area. Additionally, Rib Mountain State Park near Wausau offers panoramic views from its observation tower, providing a great vantage point to appreciate the surrounding landscapes. State and county parks along the route also provide opportunities for picnicking, swimming, and fishing, adding further enjoyment for visitors.
With its captivating geological formations, diverse wildlife, and ample recreational activities, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail offers an extraordinary experience for individuals seeking to immerse themselves in Wisconsin's natural wonders. Whether one chooses to hike, bike, or simply explore the attractions nearby, this trail guarantees a memorable adventure in the heart of the Badger State.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail is situated within the picturesque state of Wisconsin in the United States. Spanning over 1,200 miles, this enchanting trail winds its way through a diverse range of geographical wonders. From the rolling hills of the scenic Driftless Area in the southwest to the glacial terrain of the Kettle Moraine in the east, hikers are treated to a breathtaking variety of landscapes. The trail meanders through lush forests, across sparkling rivers, and along stunning glacial landforms, displaying the remnants of the ice age that once shaped this region. As hikers venture along the trail, they can enjoy the tranquility of serene meadows, the beauty of crystal-clear lakes, and the awe-inspiring sight of imposing cliffs. With its abundant natural beauty, Ice Age National Scenic Trail offers a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating geographical wonders of Wisconsin.
8075 Old Sauk Pass RoadCross Plains, WI 53528Driving DirectionsPhone: 608-798-8700Web: Link
The best time to visit Ice Age National Scenic Trail would be in the months of June, July, and August. During these summer months, the average maximum temperatures range from 77°F to 82°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average minimum temperatures range from 56°F to 61°F, ensuring comfortable conditions even in the evenings. The average monthly precipitation during this time is around 4.1 inches, which is relatively moderate and shouldn't hinder outdoor adventures.
Some of the activities you can do in Ice Age National Scenic Trail are: Hands-On Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Camping Backcountry Camping Hiking Fishing Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Snowshoeing Volunteer Vacation
Learn about these topics at Ice Age National Scenic Trail: Animals Birds Geology Trails Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Glaciers Grasslands Natural Sounds Scenic Views Prairies
Your first stop should be the Hopewell Furnace NHS Visitor Center where you will find staff eager to assist with your orientation to the park. Exhibits about furnace operations and the making of iron products including the original Mark Bird 1772 stove are on display. You can shop for Hopewell Furnace NHS related items by visiting the Eastern National store, a not-for-profit cooperating association; proceeds help fund park programming. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center as well.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site Visitor Center - 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson, PA 19520.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
With a stay at AmericInn by Wyndham New Richmond in New Richmond, you'll be a 4-minute walk from New Richmond Heritage Center and within a 5-minute drive of 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in New Richmond? This hotel has 20 square feet (2 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1020 S Knowles Ave, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
Located in Stillwater, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Stillwater, MN is a 1-minute drive from Lift Bridge Brewing Company and 5 minutes from Warden's House Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2000 Washington Avenue, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Web: Link
When you stay at Coratel Inn & Suites New Richmond in New Richmond, you'll be connected to a shopping center, within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1561 Dorset Ln, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
Located in Stillwater, Water Street Inn is within a 15-minute drive of Willow River State Park and Float Rite Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Event facilities at this hotel consist of a conference center and a meeting room. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 101 Water St South, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Web: Link
With a stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Forest Lake, MN in Forest Lake, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Running Aces Harness Park and WineHaven Winery and Vineyard. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1954 West Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
Web: Link
Located in St Croix Falls, AmeriVu Inn and Suites - St. Croix Falls is within a 5-minute drive of St. Croix Festival Theatre and Interstate State Park. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 726 S Vincent St, St Croix Falls, Wisconsin 54024
Web: Link
With a stay at AmericInn by Wyndham Forest Lake, you'll be centrally located in Forest Lake, within a 15-minute drive of Running Aces Harness Park and WineHaven Winery and Vineyard. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1291 W Broadway Ave, Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
Web: Link
A stay at Amerivu Inn And Suites New Richmond places you in the heart of New Richmond, within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and New Richmond Golf Club. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 814 North Knowles Ave, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
With a stay at Best Western Plus New Richmond Inn & Suites in New Richmond, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in New Richmond? This hotel has 419 square feet (39 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 240 Paperjack Dr, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-29 | Devil’s Lake Segment — Balanced Rock Trail Closed May 4–8 The Balanced Rock Trail will be closed May 4–8 for a trail improvement project. Use the Grottos and Potholes trails to bypass this closure. More |
| 2026-04-29 | Lodi Segment — Partial Trail Closure The Ice Age Trail along Lodi Street between Main Street and Water Street is closed due to an infrastructure improvement project in downtown Lodi. The closure may last until July 1. When hiking eastbound, continue east on Sauk Street, turn left on Lodi Street, right on Hill Street, left on Mill Street, cross Water Street, and turn right to rejoin the Trail at the Pleasant Street bridge. Stay alert. Use caution. Keep dogs leashed. More |
| 2026-04-20 | Janesville Segment — Partial Trail Closure A 1.6-mile section of the trail from Riverside Park to Mineral Point Ave is closed due to flooding. To bypass this closure, use Parkside Dr, N Washington St, N Terrace St, and Mineral Point Ave for the 1.9-mi temporary detour. |
| 2026-04-13 | Averill–Kelly Creek Wilderness Segment — Dangerous Ford at New Wood River The New Wood River has risen and may be too high to safely ford. To bypass this section from the west, follow CTH‑E north for 1.9 miles, then continue east for 3.0 miles. At Burma Road, head south for 1.0 mile to rejoin the Ice Age Trail. Stay alert. Use caution. More |
| 2026-04-10 | Hemlock Creek Segment — Logging Activities Logging operations along the Hemlock Creek Segment may mean heavy machinery and trucks in the area. The Ice Age Trail follows a logging road used for storage and transport of logs. The Trail is open. Stay alert. Remain on the trail. Use caution. Keep dogs leashed. More |
| 2026-04-10 | Straight River Segment — Partial Trail Closure A 0.3‑mile section of the Straight River Segment south of 270th Avenue is closed indefinitely. To bypass this closure, from the eastern end of the Straight Lake Segment continue south on CTH‑I and east on STH‑48. This 2.4‑mile bypass replaces 2.0 miles of connecting route and Ice Age Trail. More |