Cross Plains Celebrates the Ice Age Trail

The Cross Plains Segment shows off its best summer look. Photo Credit: Lou Ann Novak

In 2017 the Village of Cross Plains became one of eight Ice Age Trail Communities. This designation is more than a sign on the highway and a ribbon cutting. It is an invitation to use the Ice Age National Scenic Trail to celebrate the local culture, history, landscape, and businesses.

This July 14 and 15 the Village, in collaboration with the Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce, and the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Dane County Chapter, will be taking up the invitation to celebrate!

Friday, July 14 – A Day of Service

Events get underway on Friday, July 14 at 8am. Volunteers will be improving the Cross Plains Segment of the Ice Age Trail.

Activities include:

  • Invasive species removal,
  • Trail tread maintenance, and
  • Upgrading trail signage.

There is a job for everyone and no experience is required. A lunch will be provided for volunteers. You are invited to join us, please register here.

Once the work is done, showers will be available at the Village pool and participants are encouraged to join the community for a complimentary meal at Crossroads Coffeehouse. In addition to locally prepared cuisine there will be locally crafted live music to enjoy.

Camping will also be available at the American Legion Park, a short stroll from Crossroads.

Ice Age Trail Alliance, Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Cross Plains Trail Community

A family that hikes together, stays together, and has fun together!
Photo by Cameron Gillie

Saturday, July 15 – A Day of Exploration

7am – Things get started bright and early with an Early Bird Walk from 7am – 9am. The group will move to Zander Park (located near the Ice Age Trail Alliance office) for a series of presentations about ways to enjoy the Ice Age Trail and Cross Plains.

9 am – Additionally, a Tyke Hike, for the young ones in the group, will start at 9am in Zander Park and last until 11:30am. These young hikers will swing by the beautiful Rosemary Garfoot Library to hear a story or two and explore books about the outdoors.

1:30 pm – After dining at a local restaurant, participants are encouraged to rendezvous at the Table Bluff Segment for a tour of the Swamplovers property. This afternoon hike and tour starts at 1:30pm.

Event Details

If you plan on joining the festivities please follow the “Ice Age Trail Event” signs and park at the Kalscheur Dodge-Chrysler lot on the corner of Co Hwy P just south of the intersection with Hwy 14.

Please complete the online registration so we can plan meals and tools accordingly.

Any questions may be directed to Luke Kloberdanz, Ice Age Trail Alliance, at 608.798.4453 or luke@iceagetrail.org.