Photo by: Justin Helmkamp
Annual Conference & Membership Meeting 2023
Thursday, April 20 – Sunday, April 23, 2023
We look forward to seeing you at the Blue Harbor Resort and Conference Center in Sheboygan.
It’s the best weekend of the year to talk Trail with other hiking enthusiasts.
Meet new friends or reunite with past hiking partners. Learn about volunteering, building Trail, and so much more.
Registration is CLOSED.
Questions? Email: [email protected]
Rates include: three catered meals each day (plus breakfast on Sunday), shuttled hike transportation*, inspiring speakers, informative sessions, and plenty of fun and camaraderie.
Early Bird Registration ended March 17! The Regular Rate applies. Registration is CLOSED.
Only want to attend Friday’s dinner and Keynote presentation? or Saturday Night’s Dinner and Awards Banquet? $55/person.
| Conference Packages | Early Bird Rate (before March 17) | Regular Rate
|
| Three-Day (Thurs, Fri, Sat) | $275 | $300 |
| Two-Day | $225 | $250 |
| One-Day | $150 | $175 |
| Friday Dinner and Keynote stand-alone rate (it is included in Friday packages) | $55 | $55 |
| Awards Banquet stand-alone rate (it is included with Saturday packages) | $55 | $55 |
*except “Listening Session” hike
Cancellations for paid registrations received in writing (email: [email protected]) before March 17 are refundable, less an administrative fee. Cancellations between March 18-April 6 are refunded 50% of paid registration. After April 6, no refunds will be issued. Thank you for understanding. For COVID-related cancellations, please contact [email protected].
Reminder: Registration closes April 3, 2023
Reserve Your Room Now!
A limited number of discounted rooms MAY be available for Ice Age Trail Conference attendees at Blue Harbor, on Wednesday or Thursday nights. (Ask for block pricing code: Ice Age Trail Alliance.)
The room block is filled for Friday and Saturday nights. Other rooms may be available at a higher price directly through the resort.
The room discount expires March 22.
To reserve your room online:
- Visit www.blueharborresort.com
- Click on Book Now (red box on top right corner)
- Pick the first option – ROOM
- Choose a venue to reserve your room- Condos or Resort
- Reserve a room screen will open up.
- Scroll down and enter ICEAGE in Show Group Booking box
- Click Continue
- On the next screen, all room types within the group will display in blue, click on the one that you prefer, exact dates of your stay and enter number of adults and children and hit continue
- Booking summary will open up to take you to the guest profile and payment option
- Rates in booking summary include taxes and resort fee, but not added services (such as spa, etc.)
- Click Pay Now and follow the prompts
To reserve your room by phone, call 1-866-701-2583. Refer to the group code Ice Age Trail Alliance.
Other hotels in the Sheboygan area:
La Quinta
2932 Kohler Memorial Drive
Sheboygan WI, 53081
Phone: (920) 457-2321
*When making a reservation, ask for a room in the Ice Age Trail Block*
Cancellation Policy: Cancel room reservation by 04/19/2023
Super 8
3402 Wilgus Ave
Sheboygan WI, 53081
Phone: (920) 457-2321
AmericInn
3664 S Taylor Dr.
Sheboygan WI, 53081
Phone: (920) 208-8130
Board of Directors’ Nominee List [Download PDF]
Proposed Bylaws Changes for 2023 Annual Meeting [Download PDF]
2023 Schedule of Events
Shuttled Hikes! Informative Sessions! Inspiring Speakers! Certified Training!
You won’t want to miss it.
- THURSDAY, APRIL 20
- 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. Breakfast
- 7:30 a.m. Morning Announcements
- 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Your Adventure: Greenbush Segment Hike (long and short options)
- Noon - 1:30 p.m. Lunch for non-hikers
- 2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. First Aid and CPR Certification
- 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 4:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Social Gathering
- 5:30p.m. - 6:45 p.m. Dinner
- 7:00 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Trail Mix Sessions
- 8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. Trail Mix Sessions
Please stop by the Registration table to pick up your name tag and conference schedule.
Location: Hallway outside of Salon B
Enjoy a fine start to the day with fellow conference attendees. Fuel up with coffee and good conversation. Buffet meal served.
Location: Salon A
Please join us to learn about what the day will bring, including hike details, and any changes or updates you might want to know about.
Location: Salon A
Greenbush Segment*
8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Shuttled hike; all hikers receive a box lunch.
Meeting location: Convention Center Entrance Lobby (grab a boxed lunch before getting on the bus).
*Pre-registration required to participate
This segment dips into deep valleys and traverses ridge through forests of basswood, oak, maple, and pine. Choose to hike the entire segment or a shorter portion.
Hike: Long hike–8.5 miles, Short hike–5.6 miles, 30-minute bus ride
Difficulty rating: 3
Elevation rating: 4
Limit: 100 participants
Boxed lunches available for non-hikers.
Location: Salon A
Ice Age Trail History and Geology Introduction | Salon B
The story of the Ice Age Trail is as long and winding as its path! Learn about the Trail’s nationally significant geologic and conservation history from Ice Age Trail expert Drew Hanson.
Presenter: Andrew Hanson III (Drew), Partnerships Liaison for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Putting “Scenic” in National Scenic Trail | Salon C
As a certified land trust, the Ice Age Trail Alliance is responsible for being a good land steward. Learn about the Alliance’s commitment to land stewardship and how it’s putting “scenic” in the National Scenic Trail.
Presenter: Steve Pence, Land Restoration Specialist
Trail Camera Surprise Finds | Salon D
Naturalists from Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve will share some surprising finds from their Trail cameras and the results.
Presenter: Jessica Johnsrud, Education Coordinator and Assistant Director, Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve, Two Rivers
Get the training you need to be a Swamper or Sawyer at Alliance projects.
Pre-registration and pre-workshop homework are required to complete your training.
Learn more about becoming a Swamper or Sawyer here.
FREE.
Select which 1.5-hour long training opportunity suits your schedule best:
- Thursday, April 20, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 21, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon
- Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Saturday, April 22, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Note: Each training session is capped at 24 people.
Ice Age Trail History and Geology Introduction | Salon B | REPEAT
The story of the Ice Age Trail is as long and winding as its path! Learn about the Trail’s nationally significant geologic and conservation history from Ice Age Trail expert Drew Hanson.
Presenter: Andrew Hanson III (Drew), Partnerships Liaison for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Putting “Scenic” in National Scenic Trail | Salon C | REPEAT
As a certified land trust, the Ice Age Trail Alliance is responsible for being a good land steward. Learn about the Alliance’s commitment to land stewardship and how it’s putting “scenic” in the National Scenic Trail.
Presenter: Steve Pence, Land Restoration Specialist
Wisconsin Bats and Bat Survey | Salon D
Learn about Wisconsin bats and how Woodland Dunes Nature Center is monitoring them along the Dunes Segment of the Ice Age Trail and other areas in Manitowoc County.
Presenter: Jessica Johnsrud, Education Coordinator and Assistant Director, Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve, Two Rivers
Mingle with friends, bid on Silent Auction items, and browse the Chapter displays.
Cash bar available.
Location: Lakeside Terrace
Enjoy getting to know fellow conference attendees around the dinner table. Buffet meal served.
Location: Salon A
Trailbuilding 101 | Salon B
So, you want to volunteer, but feel apprehensive about what you might be getting yourself into? Join Alliance staff to learn about what to expect when you first volunteer at a trailbuilding, trail maintenance, or habitat improvement project. Questions encouraged!
Presenters: Patrick Gleissner, Trail Operations Coordinator, and Riley Dupee, Field Operations Specialist
Thousand-Miler Adventures | Salon C
Enjoy tales from the Trail as hikers regale you with their adventures, brushes with adversity, and unparalleled Trail Angel kindnesses.
Presenters: Recent Thousand-Milers
Hiker Resources/FarOut App Q&A/Demo | Salon D
FarOut’s creators and Alliance experts will be available to answer your questions about navigating the Trail. Drop in anytime with your questions or to learn more about the resources available for your Ice Age Trail adventure.
Presenters: Paul Bodnar, Co-Founder and CEO of FarOut, Alice Bodnar, COO & General Counsel of FarOut, and Tiffany Stram, GIS Coordinator for the Alliance
Simple Exercises to Improve Balance for Hiking & Stability at All Ages | Peninsula Room
People of all ages suffer from instability while hiking, which can lead to irritation, tripping, falls, and potential injury. The good news is there are many simple things that can be done at home to prepare for better balance and more stability on the Trail. Learn from avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who will help you gain confidence, stability, balance, and ultimately have more fun on Trail!
Presenters: Dr. John Reitz, chiropractor, and Dr. Kristi Reitz, owners of Better Live Chiropractic & Wellness, Sheboygan
Trailbuilding 101 | Salon B | REPEAT
So, you want to volunteer, but feel apprehensive about what you might be getting yourself into? Join Alliance staff to learn about what to expect when you first volunteer at a trailbuilding, trail maintenance, or habitat improvement project. Questions encouraged!
Presenters: Patrick Gleissner, Trail Operations Coordinator, and Riley Dupee, Field Operations Specialist
Thousand-Miler Adventures | Salon C | REPEAT
Enjoy tales from the Trail as hikers regale you with their adventures, brushes with adversity, and unparalleled Trail Angel kindnesses.
Presenters: Recent Thousand-Milers
Hiker Resources/FarOut App Q&A/Demo | Salon D | REPEAT
FarOut’s creator and Alliance experts will be available to answer your questions about navigating the Trail. Drop in anytime with your questions or to learn more about the resources available for your Ice Age Trail adventure.
Presenters: Paul Bodnar, Co-Founder and CEO of FarOut, Alice Bodnar, COO & General Counsel of FarOut, and Tiffany Stram, GIS Coordinator for the Alliance
Simple Exercises to Improve Balance for Hiking & Stability at All Ages | Peninsula Room | REPEAT
People of all ages suffer from instability while hiking, which can lead to irritation, tripping, falls, and potential injury. The good news is there are many simple things that can be done at home to prepare for better balance and more stability on the Trail. Learn from avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who will help you gain confidence, stability, balance, and ultimately have more fun on Trail!
Presenters: Dr. John Reitz, chiropractor, and Dr. Kristi Reitz, owners of Better Live Chiropractic & Wellness, Sheboygan
- FRIDAY, APRIL 21
- 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. Breakfast
- 7:30 a.m. Morning Announcements
- 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Choose Your Adventure
- 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Board of Directors' Quarterly Meeting
- 10:30 a.m. - Noon First Aid Training and Certification
- 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Chapter Leadership Summit
- 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Future in the Outdoors Summit
- 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch
- 1:00 p.m. Meet the Alliance Staff
- 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. On Your Own Adventures
- 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Annual Membership Meeting and Board of Director Elections
- 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Social Gathering
- 4:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Board of Directors' Meeting
- 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Dinner
- 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Keynote Presentation
Please stop by the Registration table to pick up your name tag and conference schedule.
Location: Hallway outside of Salon B
Enjoy a fine start to the day with fellow conference attendees. Fuel up with coffee and good conversation. Plated meal served.
Location: Salon A
Please join us to learn about what the day will bring, including hike details, and any changes or updates you might want to know about.
Location: Salon A
Choose Your Adventure Hikes*
8:00 a.m. – Noon
Shuttled hikes; all hikers will enjoy a buffet lunch at Blue Harbor.
Meeting location: Convention Center Entrance Lobby (buses will depart from there).
*Pre-registration required to participate
Option 1 | Walla Hi Segment
This segment highlights Walla Hi County Park, which showcases glacial landscape’s best features of kettles, moraines and erratics, and boasts a magnificent, hand-crafted stone staircase. It packs in beauty and challenge over a short distance as the Trail navigates almost 200 feet in elevation change.
Hike: 2.3 miles, moderate to difficult terrain, 25-minute bus ride. | Difficulty rating: 3 | Elevation rating: 4 | Limit: 90 participants
Option 2 | FarOut Mobile App in Action: LaBudde Creek Segment (also offered on Saturday)
Put your FarOut skills to the test on the Trail. Alice Bodnar, FarOut’s COO & General Counsel, and others will be available to assist with your FarOut questions during the hike. This hike is intended to help folks get comfortable using different features of the FarOut App. All user levels welcome!
Hike: 1.5-mile, moderate terrain, 30-minute bus ride. | Difficulty rating: 2 | Elevation rating: 3 | Limit: 30 participants
Board members gather to discuss Alliance business.
Location: Salon G
Get the training you need to be a Swamper or Sawyer at Alliance projects.
Pre-registration and pre-workshop homework are required to complete your training.
Learn more about becoming a Swamper or Sawyer, here.
FREE.
Select which 1.5-hour long training opportunity suits your schedule best:
- Thursday, April 20, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 21, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon
- Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Saturday, April 22, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Note: Each training session is capped at 24 people.
This informative session will get Chapter coordinators and other chapter leaders up to speed on all the news from the Alliance, including what you to need about compliance. Expect small-group and roundtable discussions.
Location: Salon E/F
Host: Lisa Szela, Volunteer Support Coordinator
Join fellow outdoor enthusiasts for a day of hiking, socializing, and discovering opportunities with the Ice Age Trail!
Calling all college students, recent grads, or young professionals looking for a sense of community in the outdoors! Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance for its Future in the Outdoors Summit, a one-day event that gathers those interested in outdoor recreational activities and conservation.
Hear from outdoor influencers, volunteers, and partners of the Alliance. Whether you are interested in finding a hiking buddy, volunteer opportunities, or getting the best tips and tricks for your next backpacking adventure, you will leave this event with a newfound appreciation for Wisconsin’s landscapes.
Registration: $20
Limited seats available!
Event Schedule:
9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: Welcome
- Introductions/Meet & Greet/Prepare for hike
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Morning hike at the LaBudde Creek Segment
- A walk and talk along a newly updated segment will offer plenty of insights into how the Alliance conserves, creates, and maintains the Ice Age Trail. You’ll be joined by members of the Alliance’s Trail Team and dedicated volunteers.
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Lunch
- Join all conference attendees for a lunch buffet for a chance to meet long-time Trail enthusiasts.
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Hiking Tips, Tricks, and More!
- TikTok stars, Renee Miller and Tim Beissinger from the Thru-Hikers, will share stories about recent thru-hike adventures, discuss trail food, favorite gear, and other tips and tricks for long-distance hiking. Bring questions for the Q+A.
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Behind the Scenes Trail Talk
- Folks from the National Park Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Alliance staff and volunteers will talk about how to get involved with the Trail (i.e. volunteering or attending events), perks/benefits, etc.
4:00 p.m.: Thank You’s and Closing Remarks
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Happy Hour
- Future in the Outdoors attendees are invited to join all conference attendees for cocktails (cash bar) and conversation.
NOTE: The Future in the Outdoors Summit is intended for people ages 18-30 years old.
Gather with fellow conference attendees around the lunch table. Buffet meal served.
Location: Salon A
A lunchtime presentation by Alliance staff will help you put names with faces while you learn about each of their roles.
Location: Salon A
Browse unique shops, admire charming architecture, or explore museums in Sheboygan or Manitowoc. Both communities offer scenic walking paths that take full advantage of the water views.
Things to do | Visit Sheboygan (tourism site)
Sheboygan highlights:
- Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of Sheboygan and street art at the same time with the James Michael Kohler Arts Center’s “The Sheboygan Project.” 608 New York Ave.
- Explore the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden! A quirky, one-of-a-kind experience. 5634 Evergreen Dr.
Things to do | Visit Manitowoc (tourism site)
Manitowoc highlights:
- Take a walking tour of Downtown Manitowoc (an Ice Age Trail Community) by following this map!
- Browse the exhibits at the Rahr-West Art Museum. 610 N. Eighth St.
Celebrate 2022 Alliance successes and elect board members, at this meeting. All Alliance members are encouraged to attend. Conference registration is not required.
Download list of Board of Directors’ nominees [PDF].
Download Proposed Bylaws Changes for 2023 Annual Meeting [PDF]
Location: Salon B/C/D
Mingle with friends, bid on Silent Auction items, browse Chapter displays, and enjoy the musical stylings of Tom Luke.
Play a round of IAT Bingo. You’re sure to discover something fun about a fellow conference attendee.
Cash bar available.
Location: Lakeside Terrace
Members of the newly elected Board of Directors convenes to conduct Alliance business.
Location: Salon G
Enjoy getting to know fellow conference attendees around the dinner table. Buffet meal served.
Location: Salon A
Keynote by Craig Richard
Adventurer, athlete, musician, survivor, Craig has been around the world, to every continent, and has even hiked some of the Ice Age Trail. The story he will share reflects his deep passion for life and love of the outdoors and is sure to inspire.
Location: Salon A
- SATURDAY, APRIL 22
- 7:00 a.m. - Noon Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. Breakfast
- 7:30 a.m. Morning Announcements
- 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Choose Your Adventure
- 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. First Aid and CPR Certification
- 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Lunch
- 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Choose Your Adventure
- 1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. First Aid and CPR Certification
- 3:00 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
- 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Social Gathering
- 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Awards Banquet and Celebration
Please stop by the Registration table to pick up your name tag and conference schedule.
Location: Hallway outside of Salon B
Enjoy a fine start to the day with fellow conference attendees. Fuel up with coffee and good conversation. Plated meal served.
Location: Salon A
Please join us to learn about what the day will bring, including hike details, and any changes or updates you might want to know about.
Location: Salon A/E/F/G
Choose Your Adventure Hikes*
8:00 a.m. – Noon
Shuttled hikes (except Listening Session hike); all hikers will enjoy a buffet lunch at Blue Harbor.
Depart from the Convention Center Entrance Lobby
*Pre-registration required to participate
Option 1 | Brownrigg-Heier Preserve Behind the Scenes: Be among the first to explore the 130-acre Preserve, which will host Trail in the near future. Alliance staff will lead you on a sometimes-strenuous hike, bush-whacking along the way, explaining property highlights. This is an off-Trail tour of the property. Be prepared for rough terrain and difficult conditions. Note: This hike is repeated at 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Up to 4-miles, 45-minute bus ride | Difficulty rating: 5 | Elevation rating: N/A | Limit: 50 participants
Option 2 | Dunes Segment: This segment highlights Woodland Dunes State Natural Area, an oasis of marshland, swamps, sandy meadows and wooded ridges.
Hike: 2.7 miles | Difficulty rating: 2 | Elevation rating: 2 | Limit: 50 participants
Option 3 | Let’s Wing It: Birding Hike with Glacial Lakes Conservancy: Bring your binoculars (or grab a pair from us) and try your hand at birding during a hike at Willow Creek Preserve. Birding experts will lead you around the preserve owned and operated by Glacial Lakes Conservancy.
Hike: 1-3 miles, easy to moderate terrain, 25-minute bus ride | Difficulty rating: 1 | Elevation rating: 1 |Limit: 35 participants
Option 4 |“Listening Session” Small-Group Hike: Sit quietly in nature and listen to what it has to offer. Eric Sherman (membership and grants coordinator), will lead a small group on a nature hike in the Sheboygan area, where you’ll spread out and sit quietly.
Hike: Less than a mile, moderate terrain, dress warmly, carpooling (this is NOT a shuttled hike) | Limit: 15 participants
Get the training you need to be a Swamper or Sawyer at Alliance projects.
Pre-registration and pre-workshop homework are required to complete your training.
Learn more about becoming a Swamper or Sawyer, here.
FREE.
Select which 1.5-hour long training opportunity suits your schedule best:
- Thursday, April 20, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 21, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon
- Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Saturday, April 22, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Note: Each training session is capped at 24 people
FarOut Mobile App in Action | Salon B
Learn everything you need to know about navigating the Trail with FarOut from its creators, Alice and Paul Bodnar. Discover helpful features and watch a live demonstration. Plus, you’ll get to ask questions of the app creators!
Note: This is a perfect companion session to the FarOut Mobile App in Action hike taking place at 1:00 p.m. Choose Your Adventure Hike along the LaBudde Creek Segment. (Ideally, you will have the app downloaded on your phone.)
Presenters: Paul Bodnar, Co-Founder and CEO of FarOut and Alice Bodnar, COO & General Counsel of FarOut
Finding Artistic Inspiration in Nature | Salon C
Hear how Baraboo, Sauk County, and the Ice Age Trail inspires the work that Dutch-born artist Anne Horjus creates.
Note: A similar presentation, with different artists, will happen at 3:00 p.m.
Presenters: Anne Horjus, Artist
Blaze the Right Way | Salon D
Learn the ins and outs of correctly marking the Ice Age Trail. This session will cover location, size, and color of blaze, plus application method. Alliance staff may even give you an opportunity to blaze a trail signage post!
Note: This presentation is repeated at 1:30 p.m.
Presenters: Riley Dupee, Field Operations Specialist, and Pat Witkowski, Ice Age Trail Alliance Volunteer and member of the “Blazing Babes”
Hiker’s Forum – Wisdom from the Trail | Salon B
Wondering what the chances are of meeting a bear, what cowboy camping entails, or how people survive heat and ticks on their way to the coveted Thousand-miler status? This session is your chance to hear crazy, make-you-want-to-hike-the-Trail stories of those who’ve made the journey. Be inspired, be informed, and be entertained during this Jeopardy game-format hiker panel.
Note: This presentation will be repeated at 3:00 p.m. with a different slate of hikers.
Presenters: TBD; Moderators: Sharon Dziengel and Tess Mulrooney, Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers and Thousand-Milers
Extraordinary Stories of Geology and Natural History along the Ice Age Trail | Salon C
Award-winning author Scott Spoolman will share stories about Wisconsin and the Trail you most likely have never heard.
Note: This presentation is repeated at 1:30 p.m.
Presenter: Scott Spoolman, Wisconsin natural science writer and author
What’s on Tap | Salon D
Members of the Alliance’s Trail Team will present the scope of work for each 2023 MSC Trailbuilding event. Come learn what to expect at each project and how you can help out. The team will also offer a peek into 2024 Trail development and construction plans.
See the 2023 MSC Season at a Glance
Note: This presentation will be repeated at 3:00 p.m.
Presenters: Dave Caliebe, Trail Program Manager, and Chad DuChateau, Director of Trail Operations
Gather with fellow conference attendees around the lunch table. Buffet meal served.
Location: Salon A/E/F/G
Choose Your Adventure Hikes*
1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Shuttled hikes.
Meeting location: Convention Center Entrance Lobby (buses will depart from there)
*Pre-registration required to participate.
Option 1 | Brownrigg-Heier Preserve Behind the Scenes (Repeat from morning options): Be among the first to explore the 130-acre Preserve, which will host Trail in the near future. Alliance staff will lead you on a sometimes-strenuous hike, bush-whacking along the way, explaining property highlights. This is an off-Trail tour of the property. Be prepared for rough terrain and difficult conditions.
Hike: Up to 4-miles, 45-minute bus ride | Difficulty rating: 5 | Elevation rating: N/A | Limit: 50 participants
Option 2 | City of Two Rivers: Nice urban hike, which takes you past the home of the original ice cream sundae and Historic Rogers Fishing Village.
Hike: 3.0 miles | Difficulty rating: 1 | Elevation rating: 2 | Limit: 50 participants
Option 3 | FarOut mobile App in Action: LaBudde Creek Segment (Also offered on Thursday): Put your FarOut skills to the test on the Trail. Alice Bodnar, FarOut’s COO & General Counsel, and others will be available to assist with your FarOut questions during the hike. This hike is intended to help folks get comfortable using different features of the FarOut App. All user levels welcome!
Hike: 1.5-mile, moderate terrain, 30-minute bus ride | Difficulty rating: 2 | Elevation rating: 3 | Limit: 30 participants
Hiking Tips, Tricks, and More! | Salon B
Featuring the adventures and advice of professional thru-hikes and TikTok stars, Renee and Tim!
Presenters: Renee Miller and Tim Bessinger, outdoor influencers
Extraordinary Stories of Geology and Natural History along the Ice Age Trail | Salon C | REPEAT
Award-winning author Scott Spoolman will share stories about Wisconsin and the Trail you most likely have never heard.
Presenter: Scott Spoolman, Wisconsin natural science writer and author.
Blaze the Right Way | Salon D | REPEAT
Learn the ins and outs of correctly marking the Ice Age Trail. This session will cover location, size, and color of blaze, plus application method. Alliance staff may even give you an opportunity to blaze a trail signage post!
Presenters: Riley Dupee, Field Operations Specialist, and Pat Witkowski, Ice Age Trail Alliance Volunteer and member of the “Blazing Babes”
Get the training you need to be a Swamper or Sawyer at Alliance projects.
Pre-registration and pre-workshop homework are required to complete your training.
Learn more about becoming a Swamper or Sawyer, here.
FREE.
Select which 1.5-hour long training opportunity suits your schedule best:
- Thursday, April 20, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 21, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon
- Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Saturday, April 22, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Note: Each training session is capped at 24 people
Hikers’ Forum – Wisdom from the Trail | Salon B
Wondering what the chances are of meeting a bear, what cowboy camping entails, or how people survive heat and ticks on their way to the coveted Thousand-miler status? This session is your chance to hear crazy, make-you-want-to-hike-the-Trail stories of those who’ve made the journey. Be inspired, be informed, and be entertained during this Jeopardy game-format hiker panel.
Presenters: TBD; Moderators: Sharon Dziengel and Tess Mulrooney, Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers and Thousand-Milers
Finding Artistic Inspiration in Nature | Salon C
Hear from different artists about their work and process, and how the Ice Age Trail and/or their time on it, inspires what they create.
Presenters: Molly Krolczky, Artist, and Stephanie McGuire, Artist
What’s on Tap | Salon D | REPEAT
Members of the Alliance’s Trail Team will present the scope of work for each 2023 MSC Trailbuilding event. Come learn what to expect at each project and how you can help out. The team will also offer a peek into 2024 Trail development and construction plans.
See the 2023 MSC Season at a Glance
Presenters: Dave Caliebe, Trail Program Manager, and Chad DuChateau, Director of Trail Operations
Mingle with friends, bid on Silent Auction items, and enjoy music by Lakeland University Chamber Winds Quintet (ft. Evan Chancellor and students)!
Cash bar available.
The Silent Auction closes at 6:30 p.m. so be sure to drive up the bid on the items you want to take home.
Location: Lakeside Terrace
We’re rolling out the yellow carpet! It’ll be a big night as we celebrate the accomplishments of our tremendously generous volunteers. Come find out who gets a National Park Service vest or jacket. Discover who’ll be the next caretaker of the Spirit Stick and who’ll be the Trail Steward of the Year. Recent Thousand-Milers are recognized, too
- 6:00 p.m. Dinner (buffet meal served)
- 6:30 p.m. Silent Auction Closes
- 7:15 p.m. National Park Service Awards*
- 7:45 p.m. Silent Auction winners announced
- 8:00 p.m. Mammoth Achievement Awards*
Location: Salons A/E/F/G
*Award winners gather for official photos
Enjoy the final gathering of the conference and parting thoughts from members of the Alliance leadership. Plated meal served.
Location: Salon E/F/G
Happy Hiking!