Hiking the Ice Age Trail
Michael May 21st, 2008
What is 10,000 years in the making and located entirely in Wisconsin? The answer is the Ice Age Trail. The Ice Age Trail is a 1,000 mile long trail that meanders along the landscape carved by the glaciers 10,000 years ago. The trail is one of eight national scenic trails and about 600 miles are complete.
The Ice Age Trail celebrates is 50th birthday year. The idea of Milwaukeean Ray Zillmer who had a vision of a 1000 mile trail spanning the state. The Ice Age Foundation was started in 1958 and in 1980 Congress designated it a national scenic trail. What makes the Ice Age Trail special is not only is it entirely located within Wisconsin, but 57% of Wisconsin Residents live within 20 miles of the trail.
Anyone can hike the Ice Age Trail. Maps and hiking information is available at the Ice Age Park and Trail website. One June 7, in celebration of National Trails Day, IAT chapters will get out and do the Mammoth Walk. The goal is for all 1000 miles of the trail get hiked on that day. Come out, join the fun, and experience what makes the Wisconsin landscape so spectacular.