Mammoth Fun-Run & Hike – Lodi Valley Chapter

Celebrate National Trails Day – Saturday, June 1 – with a family-friendly, great-for-all-ages Mammoth Fun Run & Hike hosted by the Lodi Valley Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. This year, the 6K trail run will be a fun and timed challenge. Enjoy the beautiful Lodi Marsh Segment as you run or hike to the Finish Line in Lodi, an Ice Age Trail Community!

Events: 6K hike and a timed 6K trail run (distances are approximate). VIEW and DOWNLOAD COURSE MAP HERE.

Event Details:

Location: The event will START and END at Doctor’s Park (220 S. Main Street). A shuttle will take participants to the race start along the Lodi Marsh Segment of the Ice Age Trail. Participants will run or hike their way back into Trail Community, Lodi, Wis.

Event Check-In: All participants need to check in with event volunteers at Doctor’s Park prior to boarding the shuttle. Registration and Check-In begins at 8:00 a.m. The last shuttle to the trailhead will leave from the registration site at 8:40 a.m. (Please leave Fido at home. Dogs are not allowed on the shuttle bus. Thank you for understanding.)

Race start: The Fun Run & Hike will begin at 9 a.m.

Registration: Register online now. Day-of event registrations will also be accepted.

About the Event:

Expect:

A beautiful trail with lovely views.
Challenging 6K timed run.
Trail prizes.
Homemade treats.
Good times for all!

Come for the event and stay for the Lodi Sausage Company brat stand on Main Street.

Donations: Donations to the Lodi Valley Chapter are encouraged to further corridor protection, trailbuilding, and trail maintenance.

Hike-a-Thon along the Dells of the Eau Claire Segment – Central Moraines Chapter

Explore the impressive Dells of the Eau Claire Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Join friends, family, and many other Trail enthusiasts for a great time exploring the Ice Age Trail in Marathon County. Help raise funds to conserve, create, maintain, and promote this national treasure.

Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Dells High Bridge spans 120 feet. Photo by Chuck Herdeman.

Hike a Remarkable Segment!

Enjoy a spectacular hike along the cascading Dells of the Eau Claire River as it winds though a series of ledges and pools in the mylonite bedrock gorge formed thousands of years ago by the glacial meltwater of the Green Bay Lobe.

For a donation of $25.00 (or more!), you get:

Premier, glacier-carved landscape
A fun-filled hike (various distances available)
Shuttle service to hike start
Delicious refreshments
A scavenger hunt for kids
Interpretive signs along the segment

The remarkable Dells of the Eau Claire Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is worth the jaunt!

The tumultuous Dells of the Eau Claire River eases into a slow flow. Photo by Michelle Corbett.

Event Details:

Location: Parking and event check-in, 177091 Campground Way, Aniwa, Wis, 54408

More information coming, soon!

Support the Ice Age Trail:

Help us raise $5,000 to support the work of the Central Moraines Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Alliance-member, suggested minimum donation: $25.00 (a tax-deductible gift) per participant 18 or older.
Non-Alliance-member, suggested minimum donation: $25.00 (a tax-deductible gift) per participant 18 or older. Non-members contributing $50 or more will be given a one-year Ice Age Trail Alliance membership.
Children age 17 or younger, suggested minimum donation: $10.00

Registration information coming soon!

Event Sponsors:

More information coming soon!

Please Note:

In the event of severe or threatening weather, for safety reasons, we may need to cancel this event last minute. If this happens, we will be unable to refund donations.
Pets are welcome but must be on leash and under control at all times. Note: Car shuttles may be limited to volunteers willing to shuttle pets.

Central Moraines Chapter – Winter Hike

The Hike

This is a family friendly hike along the scenic Plover River. The trail winds through a mature upland forest, drops down to follow a pristine path along the gurgling Plover River, and returns to higher ground. We’ll pass large erratics and walk the bridge across crystal clear Aniwa Creek. The section then passes through a savanna that’s been reforested with young Oak trees.

Event Details

We’ll start out, southbound, as a group. You get to choose your perfect hiking distance: The 2.5-mile one-way option is from Hatchery Road to Sportsmen Drive where you can grab a shuttle back to your vehicle. Or you can create a personalized round trip distance by reversing course at any point. Don’t forget to grab some cocoa (or other hot beverage) and cookies. Great camaraderie, a chance to unwind, and the ultimate energy boost! Dogs, on a leash, are welcome.

Location Details

We’ll meet between 12:45 and 1 p.m. near the Ice Age Trail parking lot at Hatchery and Village Roads in Aniwa. GPS coordinates: 45.018803,-89.244431. There’s been logging in the area lately, so roadside parking is recommended.

Optional Bonus “Trivia on the Trail”

Pick up a Trivia guide at the start of your hike. Look for questions posted along the trail. Answer them correctly and win a prize!

Tyke Hike – Lodi Valley Chapter

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance Lodi Valley Chapter for our next Tyke Hike at the Lodi Marsh Segment. These short walks are designed for young children accompanied by an adult, with a focus on noticing things in nature. During this hike we’ll look for what’s going on in early spring.

Meet at the Twin Pines trailhead of the Lodi Marsh Segment on Lodi Springfield Road.

Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy shoes, and in case of slippery conditions, a walking stick is useful. Leashed, well behaved dogs are welcome.

For more information, call Bill @ 608-843-3926 or email at billpatti@charter.net

Featured image by: Karen Smith

Tyke Hike – Lodi Valley Chapter

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance Lodi Valley Chapter for our next Tyke Hike. These short walks are designed for young children accompanied by an adult, with a focus on noticing things in nature. During this hike we’ll look for what’s going on in winter.

Meet at the Gibraltar Rock Segment parking lot at Gibraltar Rock Road.

Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy shoes, and in case of slippery conditions, a walking stick is useful. Leashed, well behaved dogs are welcome.

For more information, call Bill @ 608-843-3926 or email at billpatti@charter.net

Featured image by: Lisa Jones

Trailtessa 2024- Be a Twilight Explorer

Be a Twilight Explorer

Friday, April 26

7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Dunes Segment, Manitowoc County

Woodland Dunes Nature Center, Two Rivers

Be brave! Explore the magical time of twilight with a group of other women and girls.

Be curious! Learn about evening spring sounds, then explore part of the Dunes Segment of the Ice Age Trail for a short, guided twilight walk. Watch the timberdoodles perform their courtship display and listen for frogs and other critters.

If the sky is clear, scope out the night sky with an astronomer. Bring a headlamp/small flashlight and be prepared for some areas of mud on the trail. Trail length will be about ½ mile and is on fairly even ground.

Open to all ages. Registration required, space is limited.

Resister directly with Woodland Dunes Nature Center.

Contact Jessica Johnsrud, jessicaj@woodlanddunes.org, or call the Nature Center at 920-793-4007 to register.

Trailtessa [treyl-tes-sah], noun: a woman or girl who gets out on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail to experience adventure, freedom and a new way to be. Trailtessa Retreats are events designed by women for women. Re-discover YOU with plenty of permission. Be any way you want to Be. Trailtessa events were created in conjunction with the REI Force of Nature initiative.

We love dogs, but we ask that you not bring them to Trailtessa events.

Waxing Gibbous Moon Hike, McKenzie Creek Segment – Indianhead Chapter

Enjoy a forested and hilly hike, following the ups and downs of kettle topography under a waxing gibbous moon. Fingers crossed for clear skies – the half-lighted, not-quite-full moon will be visible well before dark. You’ll hike to serene, spring-fed McKenzie Lake, a prime example glacial activity’s end product. The kettle lake provides a magical backdrop for awe-inspiring views of the moon where chapter volunteer, Joe Synder, will have his telescope set up (weather permitting).

Bring post-hike treats to share.

Volunteer shuttles will take hikers back to their vehicles.

HIKE DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024
Start Time: 5:30 p.m.
Distance: 2 miles
Hike Start: Meet at the Trail Access and Parking on County Rd O/270th Ave
Hike End Point/Shuttles: McKenzie Lake boat ramp on 280th Ave.

Recommendations:

Know your activity tolerance and respect that.
Dress for the weather: wear layers, a hat, etc.
Bring bug repellant, water, and a snack.
Bring a treat to share.
Bring a headlamp if you plan to make it a four-mile round-trip moonlight hike.

Note: Inclement weather will cancel the hike.

Questions? Please call hike leaders, Cheryl (715-371-0048) or Barb (715-410-8069)

Photo credit: Eric Sherman

Dane County Winter Fun Extravaganza

Event Description

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance, Lussier Family Heritage Center and Dane County Parks at the Winter Fun Extravaganza! The event will be a great opportunity to get outside this winter. Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers will be at the snowshoe area to help attendees with gear and questions. Alliance members will also have maps, stickers and bandanas for everyone who comes by to say hello.

Here is a list of fun things that will be going on that you can participate in.

Sledding – A few sleds will be available at first come, first serve basis.
Warming Shelter Fire – We will light up the fire in the warming shelter and be providing s’mores with a donation to our environmental education programs.
Snowshoeing – Snowshoe rentals will be $5 a pair to use during the event on a first come, first serve basis.
Permit Free Weekend for Cross County Skiing!
Bonfire – We will have a bonfire going at the shelter and be providing s’mores and hot chocolate with a donation to our environmental education programs.
Snow free play! Use our igloo bricks to build an igloo, make snow people and more!

This is a free event open to the public, no registration is required. This event is weather dependent, check Dane County Parks’ Facebook event page and other social media platforms for cancelations.

Location

Indian Lake County Park

8183 State Highway 19
Cross Plains, WI 53528
Get Directions

Contact

heritagecenter@countyofdane.com

*Image credit: Lussier Family Heritage Center, Dane County Parks

Family Scavenger Hike, Straight Lake Segment – Indianhead Chapter

Family Scavenger Hike, Straight Lake Segment, Indianhead Chapter

Bring the kiddos and join us for a family-friendly hike along an easy-to-traverse section of the Straight Lake Segment. Keen eyes will spot nature’s little gifts (and yellow blazes!) during this nearly two-mile scavenger hike. Volunteer shuttles will take you and your littles back to your vehicle. Enjoy a special snack, brownies, made by chapter volunteer Corrine “Cork” Lundberg.

This hike is in partnership with the Polk County Social Services Department to help raise awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

HIKE DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024
Start Time: 1:00 p.m.
Distance: 1.7 miles
Hike Start: Trail Access and Parking along 280th Ave.
Hike End Point: Park Entrance parking lot (270th Ave. and 120th St.) with shuttles back to the start.

A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required to enter the Straight Lake State Park. (Vehicle admission stickers can be purchased at the park through self-registration or online).

Recommendations:

Know your activity tolerance and respect that.
Dress for the weather: wear layers, a hat, etc.
Bring sunscreen, bug repellant, water, and a snack.

Note: Inclement weather will cancel the hike.

Questions? Please call hike leaders, Cheryl (715-371-0048) or Barb (715-410-8069)

Photo credit: Kris Van Handel

Trailtessa 2024: Be BLISSFUL

Be BLISSFUL

February 17, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca/Portage Counties

Cost: $20/attendee, Girls under 18 are free

Pure Bliss. Embrace all that winter has to offer! Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance at Hartman Creek State Park for a morning hike. Make new friends, warm your hands at a post-hike bonfire, and enjoy homemade, locally-sourced AMAZING soup and bread from female-owned 13 Chairs in Amhurst.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm Snowshoe Hike (lunch included after the hike)

*2-mile guided snowshoe hike along the Hartman Creek Segment. Snowshoes will be available for attendees to use if needed.

Registration fee is non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, we will consider it a donation to the Alliance.

We love dogs, but we ask that you not bring them to Trailtessa events.

Trail Community Event: Light Up Cross Plains 2023

The Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to the third annual Light Up Cross Plains event on Saturday, December 2, 2023.

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance for a guided hike at 3:30 pm.

The hike will be approximately a 3-mile loop that starts and ends at Esser Square (the green space next to Crossroads Coffeehouse – 2020 Main Street, Cross Plains, WI 53528). Hikers will explore part of the Cross Plains Segment to the north of Highway 14/Main Street. Enjoy woodlands, the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Andersen Preserve, a savanna restoration area, the Hickory Hill Conservation Park and of course, the lighting of the tree at 4:45 pm.

Dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend bringing a headlamp and/or flashlight for the way back.

After the hike, head back to Esser Square to enjoy hot cocoa, fire pits, and s’mores available from 3:00 – 8:00 pm. A coupon will also be available from the Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce for 10% off at local Cross Plains restaurants.

For more information, visit the Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce Facebook event.

Waukesha/Milwaukee County Chapter: Wee Walkers Hike # North Shore Dr.

About:

Hartland became Wisconsin’s first Ice Age Trail Community in 2015, and this walking club was formed to bring people–both adults and “Wee Walkers”–together to enjoy the trail, community, and each other. Start the New Year right by getting your kids out of the house and onto the Ice Age Trail with the Hartland Walking Club’s “Wee Walkers” program–monthly hikes designed especially for tykes! They’d love to have you join them for a walk!

The Walk:

Gorgeous day for a hike coming up with our Wee Walkers one of our favorite parts of the Hartland Segment! We will start at the northeast corner of KE and Cottonwood Ave and head south on the Ice Age Trail to Foxwood Drive and back. This hike will move at a “toddler’s pace,” as they stop to explore and enjoy the surroundings along the way. Check their Facebook page for updates.

Details:

This month, their out-and-back hike will total approximately 1.8 miles. This section of trail is stroller-friendly but it’s really fun for kids with ups and downs, switchbacks, and surprises to explore. Please dress for the weather and consider bringing water and snacks. If conditions are unsafe we will cancel.

Walks are led by 5-year-old Simon, 3-year-old Ophelia, 1-year-old Rhea, and their mom, Christina, an Ice Age Trail volunteer (and kid at heart). All ages are welcome; kids must be accompanied by an adult. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.

Christina Callies and the Hartland Recreation Department organized this hike. Register in advance to ensure that you receive notification in the event this hike is postponed or canceled. You can also just show up at Cottonwood Wayside, too. There is no fee for this activity.

Location:

Equipment Depot Milwaukee has graciously given us permission to park in their lot adjacent to the trail; access the lot off Cottonwood Ave and park in the southernmost part of the lot along KE.

Contact Information:

Email comments or questions to your hike leader, Christina.

2023 Dane County Chapter Hike-A-Thon

Join the Dane County Chapter on Saturday, October 14, 2023 for the annual Dane County Hike-A-Thon!

Choose between 2 hike options:

A 16-mile hike going south to north on the Montrose Segment and part of the Verona Segment
A 5-mile hike going south to north on part of the Verona Segment

See below for hike details!

Either way, you’ll get a shuttle, refreshments, some swag, and you’ll get closer to completing the Mammoth Hike Challenge!

We ask that each Hike-a-Thon participant make a personal gift of $50 per individual or 1st member of a household, $25 for 2nd adult in the household. Children under 18 accompanied by an adult are $10.

All proceeds from the Hike-A-Thon will go towards the Dane County Land Protection Fund, which allows quick action when a land protection opportunity arises, providing funds to pay for critical, time-sensitive costs related to land acquisition, such as appraisals, land surveys, and other fees.

The Details:

All participants will receive a shuttle from their car to the start of the hike, and refreshments during and after the hike.

15-Mile Hikers: Meet at Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 at 7:30 am for check in.

The bus will leave promptly at 8:00 am and shuttle hikers to County D along the Montrose Segment for the start of the hike.
Hikers will then walk the Montrose Segment, a short connector route and part of the Verona Segment ending at Badger Prairie County Park Shelter #1.

5-Mile Hikers: Meet at the Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 at 11:30 am for check in.

The bus will leave promptly at 11:45 am and shuttle hikers to the parking lot at Prairie Moraine County Park.
Hikers will then walk portions of the Verona Segment ending at Badger Prairie County Park Shelter #1.

There will be two aid stations along the with water refills and lots of snacks: Bosco and Prairie Moraine parking lot.

Location/Parking Details:

LOCATION: Badger Prairie County Park, Link to Google map

PARKING: Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1, Link to location on Hiker Resource map

Post-Hike Celebration:

After your hike, join Dane County Chapter volunteers at the Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 for grab and go sandwiches provided by Millers & Sons Grocery, soda, beer, hot apple cider and other drinks, and snacks to refuel after a long hike.

Make plans to enjoy local businesses in the our Trail Community of Verona.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your gift as part of this event is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Thank you sponsors for supporting the Dane County Hike-A-Thon:

Miller and Sons Grocery
Verona Chamber of Commerce

Summer Fun Hike – Central Moraines Chapter

The Hike

Summer Fun Hike. This hike will feature beautiful rolling and winding terrain with fantastic views of kettles, a boulder train, and ephemeral ponds.

Event Details

This is a free event. Hikers can choose from two one-way hiking options, or a round-trip group hike.

Shuttles (for one-way hikers) will depart from the Poplar Lane parking lot between 8 and 8:45 a.m. One-way hikers can choose a 3.4 mile hike (from Hoot Owl to Poplar – leashed dogs welcome) or a 5.6 mile hike (Helf Road to Poplar – sorry no dogs between Helf and Hoot Owl).

The group hike (a 6.8 mile out-and-back) will depart from the Poplar Lane parking lot at 9 a.m. Participants can choose to do the full 6.8 mile round trip or turn back sooner to hike a shorter distance.

Family friendly. Dogs (must be leashed) are welcome on the group hike and on the 3.4 mile one-way hike.

Delicious summer snacks and drinks will be provided.

Follow the Central Moraines Chapter’s group page on Facebook for updates.

What to Bring

Dress for the weather. Closed toe shoes, a water bottle, and your preferred insect repellent are recommended. Hiking poles if you use them.

Hike Location

We’ll gather at the Ice Age Trail’s roadside parking lot on Poplar Lane, between Hatley and Ringle, about 15 miles east of Wausau.

GPS coordinates: 44.900494; -89.382500

National Trails Day: Group Hike and Open House at the Pleasant Lake Loop – Waushara and Marquette County Chapters

Lace up your hiking boots and gather your family and friends! In celebration of National Trails Day, join fellow hikers for an open house and hike along the Pleasant Lake section of the Ice Age Trail.

The Hike:

Enjoy a 1.5 mile guided group hike on a newly completed section of the Ice Age Trail featuring recently planted native prairie. Dr. Diane Lueck, Naturalist and Lecturer with the College of Natural Resources at UW Stevens Point, will lead this hike.

Event Details:

This is a free, family friendly event! All are welcome to attend, including leashed dogs. Participants can use this hike’s mileage towards their “Walk-the-Waush” goal. All participants will be eligible for event-related door prizes.

The event will be canceled if there is inclement weather.

What to Bring:

Hiking boots are ideal although tennis shoes can work, too. Dress in layers to accommodate Wisconsin’s weather. Bring a filled water bottle, insect repellant, and sun block.

Directions:

We’ll meet at 12:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Lake Ice Age trailhead parking lot located on 3rd Ave, 1/4 mile south of County Road CC in Coloma. To get there, take County Road CH south from Coloma to County Rd CC. Follow the yellow Ice Age Trail Event signs. Google Map Directions here.

Questions?

Contact: Randy L., Ice Age Trail Alliance (920-787-2333), Heather P. (920-787-7037, wausharacounty.parks@co.waushara.wi.us), or Jen P. (920-787-5638, public.health@co.waushara.wi.us)

Waukesha/Milwaukee County Chapter: Wee Walkers – Cottonwood Wayside to North Shore Dr.

About:

The Walk:

Hartland Walking Club’s “Wee Walkers” invite you and your kids to continue their 2023 series. This year, they are on a mission to hike the ENTIRE Hartland Segment of the Ice Age Trail–out AND back!! They started at Centennial park in January and will head south each month in 2023 until the full segment has been! Anyone who accomplishes this goal with us will earn a free “Hartland Segment” pin! Starting at the Maple Wayside, hikers will head south to the Cottonwood Wayside for an out and back hike on the Ice Age Trail. This hike will move at a “toddler’s pace,” as they stop to explore and enjoy the surroundings along the way. Check their Facebook page for updates.

Details:

This month, their out-and-back hike will total approximately 1.5 miles. They will trek from Cottonwood Wayside to North Shore Dr. and back. This section of trail is stroller-friendly. Please dress for the weather and consider bringing water and snacks. If conditions are unsafe we will cancel.

Christina Callies and the Hartland Recreation Department organized this hike. Register in advance (ensure that you receive notification in the event this hike is postponed or canceled) or simply show up at Cottonwood Wayside. There is no fee for this activity.

Location:

Meet at the parking lot at the Cottonwood Wayside. You will find Christina and her kids layering up by their car.

Contact Information:

Email comments or questions to your hike leader, Christina.

Waukesha/Milwaukee County Chapter: Wee Walkers – Maple Wayside to Cottonwood Wayside

About:

The Walk:

Details:

This month, their out-and-back hike will total approximately 1.5 miles. They will trek from the Maple Wayside to Cottonwood Wayside and back. Unfortunately, this section of trail is not stroller-friendly. Please dress for the weather and consider bringing water and snacks. If conditions are unsafe we will cancel.

Location:

Meet at the parking lot at the Maple Wayside. You will find Christina and her kids layering up by their car.

Contact Information:

Email comments or questions to your hike leader, Christina.

National Trails Day Hike – Washington/Oz Co Chapter

Pike Lake Segment

Please join us as we partner with the Friends of Pike Lake for their Discovery Day event. As part of that event, and to celebrate National Trails Day, we will offer a guided hike on the Pike Lake Segment of the Ice Age Trail. As we hike the IAT and other trails in the park, we see glacial features and climb a large glacial kame (Powder Hill).

No Wisconsin state park sticker is required, as this is the DNR’s Free Fun Weekend.

LOCATION: Beach Parking Lot, Pike Lake Unit, Kettle Moraine State Forest, east of Hartford. Click here for driving directions. Watch for yellow “Ice Age Trail Event” signs.

HIKE DESCRIPTION: We will take the Ice Age Trail east from the beach parking lot entrance, making a quick side trip to climb the observation tower on top of Powder Hill. We will return to the parking lot using the orange trail, which runs along the shore of Pike Lake. Total hike distance will be approximately 3 miles. (Participants can return on the green trail on their own to reduce the distance.)

WHAT TO BRING: Wear comfortable hiking boots and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring water and insect repellant.

HIKE LEADER: TBD

Waukesha/Milwaukee County Chapter: Wee Walkers – Nixon Park to Maple Wayside

About:

The Walk:

Hartland Walking Club’s “Wee Walkers” invite you and your kids to continue their 2023 series. This year, they are on a mission to hike the ENTIRE Hartland Segment of the Ice Age Trail–out AND back!! They started at Centennial park in January and will head south each month in 2023 until the full segment has been! Anyone who accomplishes this goal with us will earn a free “Hartland Segment” pin! Starting at Nixon Park, hikers will head south for an out and back hike on the Ice Age Trail. This hike will move at a “toddler’s pace,” as they stop to explore and enjoy the surroundings along the way. Check their Facebook page for updates.

Details:

This month, their out-and-back hike will total approximately 1.5 miles. They will trek from Nixon Park to Maple Wayside and back. This section of trail is stroller-friendly. A heavy-duty stroller is recommended in case there is residual snow, slush, and/or ice on the path. Please dress for the weather and consider bringing water and snacks. If conditions are unsafe we will cancel.

Location:

Meet at the parking lot at Nixon Park. You will find Christina and her kids layering up by their car or playing on the playground waiting for their hiking buddies to arrive!

Contact Information:

Email comments or questions to your hike leader, Christina.

Waukesha/Milwaukee County Chapter: Wee Walkers – Hartbrook Park

About:

The Walk:

Hartland Walking Club’s “Wee Walkers” invite you and your kids to continue their 2023 series. This year, they are on a mission to hike the ENTIRE Hartland Segment of the Ice Age Trail–out AND back!! They started at Centennial park in January and will head south each month in 2023 until the full segment has been! Anyone who accomplishes this goal with us will earn a free “Hartland Segment” pin! Starting at Hartbrook Park hikers will head south for an out and back hike on the Ice Age Trail. This hike will move at a “toddler’s pace,” as they stop to explore and enjoy the surroundings along the way. Check their Facebook page for updates.

Details:

This month, their out-and-back hike will total approximately 2 miles. They willtrek from Hartbrook Park to Nixon Park and back. This section of trail is stroller-friendly. A heavy-duty stroller is recommended in case there is residual snow, slush, and/or ice on the path. Hopefully some snow mountains will be found to climb and, for the second month in a row, hikers will get a bonus of not one but TWO playground stops! Please dress for the weather and consider bringing water and snacks. If conditions are unsafe we will cancel.

Location:

Meet at the parking lot at Hartbrook Park. You will find Christina and her kids layering up by their car or playing on the playground waiting for their hiking buddies to arrive!

Contact Information:

Email comments or questions to your hike leader, Christina.

Trailtessa 2023: Be BLISSFUL

Be BLISSFUL

February 18, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca/Portage Counties

Pure Bliss. Embrace all that winter has to offer! Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance at Hartman Creek State Park for a morning hike and/or an afternoon Intro to Winter Camping workshop. Make new friends, warm your hands at a post-hike bonfire, and enjoy homemade, locally-sourced treats from female-owned Gypsy Moon Catering. Registration (non-refundable) fee required for the hike and the workshop.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm Snowshoe Hike (lunch included after the hike)

*2-mile guided snowshoe hike along the Hartman Creek Segment. Snowshoes will be available for attendees to use if needed.

1:00 – 4:00 pm Introduction to Winter Camping Workshop* (lunch included before the workshop)

*Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance and instructor Chris McCart for this introduction to winter camping. Chris is new to Wisconsin but an old-timer in outdoor adventure education! She started a new job as an Assistant Professor of Interpretation at the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point this year. Previously, she coordinated the Outdoor Education Program at Black Hills State University, where she taught a variety of outdoor leadership courses, including backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, fly fishing, LNT Outdoor Ethics, rock climbing, orienteering, cross country skiing, and winter camping. Chris loves introducing folks to outdoor pursuits and helping them achieve their goals, whether that is dabbling or diving in! Attendees will learn about gear and what to pack (including demos and hands on activities), risk assessment, and lots of time for Q&A.

Register for either the hike or the workshop, or both. Registration fee is non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, we will consider it a donation to the Alliance.

$20.00 Snowshoe Hike Attendee
Free Girls under 18: Snowshoe Hike
$20.00 Intro to Winter Camping Workshop Attendee
$10.00 Girls Under 18: Intro to Winter Camping Workshop
$30.00 Snowshoe Hike AND Intro to Winter Camping Workshop Attendee
$10.00 Girls Under 18: Snowshoe Hike AND Intro to Winter Camping Workshop

We love dogs, but we ask that you not bring them to Trailtessa events.

Thank you Trailtessa partners:

Trail Community Event: Light Up Cross Plains 2022

Light Up Cross Plains

Saturday, December 3 at Twenty Twenty Main (2020 Main Street, Cross Plains WI 53528)

The Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce and Village of Cross Plains would like to invite you to the second annual Light Up Cross Plains event on Saturday, December 3 at Twenty Twenty Main (2020 Main Street, Cross Plains).

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance for a guided hike at 3:30 pm.

The hike will be approximately 3-miles. We will explore part of the Cross Plains Segment to the north of Highway 14/Main Street. Enjoy woodlands, the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Andersen Preserve, a savanna restoration area, the Hickory Hill Conservation Park and of course, the lighting of the tree at 4:45 pm. Dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend bringing a headlamp and/or flashlight to finish the hike down the hill after the tree lighting.

After the hike, head back to Twenty Twenty Main Street to enjoy hot cocoa, fire pits, and s’mores available from 4:00 – 6:30 pm.

For more information, visit the Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce Facebook event.

2022 Dane County Chapter Hike-A-Thon

Join the Dane County Chapter on Saturday, October 15, 2022 for the annual Dane County Hike-A-Thon!

Choose between 2 hike options:

A 20-mile hike from the Cross Plains Segment to the Verona Segment
A 4.5-mile hike on the Madison and Verona Segments

See below for hike details!

Either way, you’ll get a shuttle, refreshments, some swag, and you’ll get closer to completing the Mammoth Hike Challenge!

We ask that each Hike-a-Thon participant make a personal gift of $50 or more per hiker. Children 12 and under are free!

You can also support a hiker! The 3 hikers who receive the most support will receive either a Granite Gear backpack or a World Famous Tent donated by Fontana Sports. Use the registration link to support!

Cross Plains Segment Anderson Preserve. Photo by Mona Jean Harley

The Details:

All participants will receive a $10 gift card to Fontana Sports, a shuttle from their car to the start of the hike, and refreshments during and after the hike.

20-Mile Hikers: Meet at Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 at 7:45 am for check in.

The bus will leave promptly at 8:00 am and shuttle hikers to the west end of the Cross Plains Segment at Hickory Hill.
Hikers will then walk the Cross Plains, Valley View, Madison Segments, a part of the Verona Segment and all associated connector routes.

4.5-Mile Hikers: Meet at the Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 at 12:45 pm for check in.

The bus will leave promptly at 1:00 pm and shuttle hikers to the parking lot at University Ridge Golf Course.
Hikers will then walk portions of the Madison and Verona segments.

Location/Parking Details:

LOCATION: Badger Prairie County Park, Link to Google map

PARKING: Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1, Link to location on Hiker Resource map

Post-Hike Celebration:

After your hike, join Dane County Chapter volunteers at the Badger Prairie Park Shelter #1 for refreshments, door prizes, and exchanging of hiking stories.

Make plans to enjoy local businesses in the our Trail Community of Verona.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your gift as part of this event is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Thank you sponsors for supporting the Dane County Hike-A-Thon:

Halloween Trick or Treat Hike

Photo by Christina Callies.

Come out and enjoy the beautiful fall weather along this easy, family-friendly, two-mile guided hike through Roznos Meadow just south of Devil’s Lake State Park.

Learn about the glacial effects that created the landscape surrounding this lovely winding meadow trail. Great views of the bluffs, guaranteed.

And you might just find some Halloween treats along the way!

We welcome all ages and encourage light costumes and trick-or-treat bags.

Plan for approximately a 1-hour hike

It will be an out-and-back hike, so no shuttling needed. We will hike back to our vehicles.

Date & Time: Saturday, October 22, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Parking Lot: View on Hiker Resource map.

View on Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/8C7RhVTEBgqz4amz6

Contact Jenny Jahnke at jljahnke@live.com or 608-495-1052 to sign up.

Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest Hike – Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter

The Hike:

Kick off the Mammoth Hike Challenge with a 3, 5, 10, 15, or even 20-mile hike through the Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest.

You’ll enjoy wooded moraines, kettles, and outstanding views of Rice Lake and Whitewater Lake from atop a steep rise. If you hike the entire distance, you’ll get to preview one of the ever-popular backpacking shelters found along the Trail in this region, the “stone elephant”, and the views from the Bald Bluff Scenic Overlook.

You’ll start hiking along the Whitewater Lake Segment, and depending on how far you decide to go, you may also traverse Blackhawk and Blue Spring Lake segments, ending at the Emma Carlin Trails parking area.

Event details:

Meet at the Rice Lake Boat Launch by 7:45 am at the latest. We’ll start hiking at 8:00 am.

The Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter members (volunteer shuttle drivers) will be waiting at the 3, 5, 10, 15, or 20-mile end points to drive you back to your vehicle, allowing you to hike the distance most comfortable for you (and your hiking companions if you bring them).

If you plan to hike the 20-mile distance, please bring a lunch; we will take a lunch break at the Ole Oleson historic log cabin (Blackhawk Segment).

Regardless of the distance, please pack your own water and snacks, especially if you intend to hike one of the longer distances.

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Photos by Cameron Gillie of ThePinHoleThing.com