Stretching more than 1,000 miles across Wisconsin, the Ice Age Trail traces the path of ancient glaciers that sculpted the landscape thousands of years ago. This hike offers a tactile connection to a land shaped by colossal ice sheets, where gravelly ridges suddenly rise, moraines stand like frozen waves, and glacial lakes dare you to pause and reflect. Starting near Devil's Lake State Park—a hub for adventurers—the trail winds through rolling hardwood forests, open prairies, and rugged terrain that commands respect for its fiercely natural character.

Covering segments of the trail around the glacial ridges near Baraboo, expect between 5 to 12 miles of hiking depending on your itinerary, with elevation gains reaching up to 1,000 feet. The rolling hills hold steady challenges; rocky paths and loose soil require dependable footwear with good traction. Forest canopies shift from dense maples and oaks to open juniper-dotted ridges where the wind pushes against you, reminding you that nature here claims its space.

The trail's defining features—the moraines—are more than geological forms. They rise and fall like frozen waves that the glaciers withdrew from, leaving behind a series of ridges that invite hikers to climb and descend deliberately. Along the way, clear streams beckon, their current pushing forward in quiet insistence, a refreshing reminder to stay hydrated and pace yourself. Whether you're a casual hiker or a seasoned trekker, the trail’s pragmatic difficulty makes it accessible yet demanding.

Preparation is key. Start early to avoid midday heat, and bring layered clothing as weather can shift quickly. Water sources along the trail can be spotty; carry at least two liters per day. We recommend sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles for balance on uneven ground. Timing your hike for late spring through early fall offers the best conditions, but each season paints the landscape differently—from wildflower bursts in May to fiery maple leaves in October.

Along the Ice Age Trail, privacy meets panoramic views. Towering ridges frame distant rolling hills, and wildlife such as white-tailed deer and red-tailed hawks often share the trail quietly. Look for the subtle blue blazes marking the way, guiding you steadily through this landscape fiercely itself, a reminder of the ice’s ancient grasp and the patient reshaping of the Midwest’s earth.

This is more than a hike. It’s an encounter with time and terrain, both humbled and energized by the forces that carved it. Step thoughtfully and boldly—the Ice Age Trail is waiting.