Wisconsin Ice Age National Scenic Trail
One of only 11 national scenic trails in the country the ice age trail is a 1000 mile footpath contained entirely within the state of wisconsin.
Wisconsin ice age national scenic trail. The trail was established by an act of congress and protects a vast swath of land for public use. The ice age national scenic trail is one of americas eleven national scenic trails. Mammoths saber tooth cats and cave lions roamed the earth. Ice age national scenic trail the 1200 mile ice age national scenic trail passes through the heart of west bend.
The trail is one of the nations great foot paths tracing the route of the last glacier in wisconsin. The alliance also maintains an interactive trail map and information about trail conditions on its website. It is predominantly an off road hiking trail similar to the appalachian trail. The ice age national scenic trail is a thousand mile footpath that highlights these landscape features as it travels through some of the states most beautiful natural areas.
The trail traverses some of wisconsins most scenic landscapes and helps tell the story of the last ice age by highlighting wisconsins unique glacial features. The ice age national scenic trail traverses over 1000 miles of forestlands prairies wetlands and roadways throughout wisconsin. The trail is administered by the national park service and is constructed and maintained by private and public agencies including the ice age trail alliance a non profit and member volunteer based organization with local chapters. Now day hikers backpackers and outdoor lovers of all ages rely on the ice age trail for a place to unplug relax and enjoy nature.
Ancient glaciers carved the path through rocky terrain open prairies and peaceful forests. Ice age national scenic trail devils lake segment is a 147 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near merrimac wisconsin that features a lake and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. A mere 15000 years ago during the ice age much of north america lay under a huge glacier. But the ice age trail is more than a path through the woods.
A printed brochure that includes information about the trail along with a state wide map is available from the national park service office in madison wisconsin. Some of the best evidence of this glacier is found in wisconsin such as the states many lakes river valleys gently rolling hills and ridges. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The nearly 1200 mile ice age national scenic trail established in 1980 traces the glaciers edge.
The ice age trail is a national scenic trail stretching 1200 miles 1900 km in the state of wisconsin in the united states. Ice age national scenic trail brochure. One of only 11 national scenic trails the ice age trail is intended to be a premier hiking trail and conservation resource for silent sport and outdoor enthusiasts. The trail offers a number of activity options.