Winter Solstice Hike – Springfield Hill Segment

Join the fun on Thursday, December 21, 2023 to celebrate the Winter Solstice on the Ice Age Trail! 

Details

Dress for the weather. Headlamps and/or flashlights will be needed. There are no bathroom facilities available at the Springfield Hill Segment.

After the hike, enjoy FREE hot cocoa provided by the Dane County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. All are welcome, including well-behaved and leashed dogs.

Springfield Hill Segment
This segment, a short loop that can be hiked in either direction, highlights the 198-acre Springfield Hill Natural Resource Area. This property consists of steep wooded valleys, glacial kettle ponds, and open meadow. The stunning prairie changes with the seasons and demonstrates what’s possible through extensive and ongoing restoration efforts. The Trail’s route provides outstanding views from atop Springfield Hill, one of the highest points in the area.

Photo by Joe Ulmer. 

Winter Hikes and More this December!

Winter beauty on the John Muir Park Segment. Photo by Alyssa Kohls.
Winter beauty on the John Muir Park Segment. Photo by Alyssa Kohls.
Our volunteer chapters are hosting winter hikes and snowshoeing excursions all month long!

Revel in the restful quiet of a snow-covered landscape. Feel the crunch of snow under foot, or snowshoe. Take advantage of leaf-off season to admire expansive landscapes of glacial features.

Hike under the full moon on the winter solstice, go for a festive jaunt with Santa, explore your favorite Segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail transformed into a winter wonderland.

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Welcome Winter with Trail Community Fun

Cross Plains 2019 Winter Solstice Hike. Photo by Cameron Gillie
Cross Plains 2019 Winter Solstice Hike. Photo by Cameron Gillie
As the air grows chilly and snow begins to appear in the forecast, it can be tempting to huddle indoors.

But don’t close the shutters till spring just yet!

Our Trail Communities are proving there are many opportunities to get out and into the festive spirit throughout the month. Venture out and enjoy the lights, the snacks, and the community at any of these upcoming events!

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