This October, our friends at the Ice Age Trail Alliance invite you to take the Mammoth Hike Challenge. Hike, run, walk or backpack 43 miles on the Ice Age Trail and visit three Trail Communities to earn a limited-edition patch and certificate.
Unsure about hiking all 43 miles? Gaining bonus miles is an option, with tasks ranging between five to 10 miles each for involvement with the Ice Age Trail Alliance. New 2023 Mammoth Challenge Ice Age Trail segments include White Cedar, Evansville, Cornell, Gibbs Lake and soon, the latest Rib Lake segment. Registration is free.
Did you know that the Ice Age State and National Scenic Trail crosses through several state park properties, and begins AND ends at two state parks? No matter which way you start or finish, you’re at a state park.
The western terminus of the 1,200-mile trail is in Interstate State Park in Polk County, while the eastern terminus is at Potawatomi State Park in Door County. The trail traces the edge of the glaciers’ advance about 10,000 years ago due to the repeated glacial freezing and melting that occurred during that time. The basic features defining the route of the Ice Age Trail are the Kettle Moraine of eastern Wisconsin and extending westward along the most recent terminal moraine.
The Ice Age Trail provides recreational opportunities for thousands of visitors each year and expands the interpretation of Wisconsin’s unique glacial geology to dozens of communities along its route. In fact, the trail passes through 142 Wisconsin communities in 30 counties. Some communities have elected to become official “Trail Communities.” Look for an Ice Age Trail Community sign on your way into town.
The Ice Age Trail is managed cooperatively by the DNR, the National Park Service and the Ice Age Trail Alliance. The trail passes through public and private land; please be respectful and stay on the trail, especially when on private land. The trail is a work in progress. More than 600 miles are marked segments, while another 500 miles are unmarked routes.