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49.1 km
~2 days
516 m
Multi-Day
“Hike the glacially sculpted Ice Age Trail, a journey through history and diverse Wisconsin landscapes.”
Embarking on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, hikers will traverse approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) of diverse landscapes shaped by glacial activity thousands of years ago. With an elevation gain of around 500 meters (1640 feet), the trail offers a medium difficulty rating, providing a moderate challenge for most hikers.
Getting to the Trailhead
The trailhead is located near Washington County, Wisconsin. For those driving, it's accessible via Highway 45, which leads to the forest's main entrances. Parking is available at various points along the trail for those who prefer to tackle specific sections. Public transport options are limited, so it's advisable to check local resources for the latest information on shuttle services or local buses that may drop off near the trailhead.
Navigating the Trail
Hikers can rely on HiiKER for detailed maps and GPS navigation to guide them through the trail. The path is well-marked with yellow blazes, ensuring a clear route through the forested terrain.
Trail Highlights and Landmarks
As you set out from the southern end of the trail, you'll be greeted by the serene beauty of the hardwood forests, interspersed with conifer plantations. The trail meanders through a series of rolling hills, known as kames, and dips into the low-lying areas called kettles, which were formed by retreating glaciers.
Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) in, you'll reach the Parnell Tower, an observation tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest canopy and glacial landscapes. It's a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
Continuing northward, the trail crosses a mix of prairies and wetlands, providing opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna. The area is home to white-tailed deer, red foxes, and a variety of bird species, including the pileated woodpecker and the rare Kirtland's warbler.
Historical Significance
The region holds significant historical value as it showcases the geological impact of the last Ice Age. The trail itself is a testament to the Wisconsin Glaciation period, which sculpted the land over 12,000 years ago. Hikers will encounter numerous glacial features, including moraines, drumlins, and eskers, offering a living classroom for those interested in geology and natural history.
Preparing for Your Hike
Before setting out, ensure you have adequate water, as natural water sources may not be safe for drinking. Weather can be unpredictable, so layered clothing is recommended. The trail can be hiked in sections, with various access points allowing for shorter day hikes. Camping is available in designated areas for those looking to experience the trail over multiple days.
Remember to leave no trace, respect the wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
What to expect?
Activity types
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest take to hike?
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest is 49.13 km, or about 30.5 miles, so most hikers treat it as a 2- to 3-day trip. With 516 m of climbing and generally easy-rated terrain, strong hikers can cover it in a long day, but the route is better known as a multi-day section hike through the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest difficult?
This route is rated easy, which fits its broad profile: 49.13 km with 516 m of elevation gain spread across rolling glacial terrain rather than sustained mountain climbing. The main challenge is the distance, not technical exposure, so it suits hikers looking for a long but relatively approachable multi-day trail in Washington County.
Are dogs allowed on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Dogs are allowed on most hiking trails in the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, including the Ice Age Trail corridor, as long as they are on a physical leash no longer than 8 feet. Pets are not allowed on certain marked nature trails such as the Spruce Lake Bog Trail, Ice Age Center Moraine Trail, and Long Lake Summit Trail, and they are also barred from designated cross-country ski trails when those trails are snow-covered.
Where can you park for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Parking is available at several access points in the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit rather than at a single trailhead. One useful landmark is the Parnell Tower trailhead on County Highway U, a quarter mile west of County Highway A, where there are picnic tables, grills, drinking water, and vault toilets; the Parnell lot is closed in winter.
Can you backpack or camp on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Backpacking is possible on this section. In the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, five backpack shelters are available year-round along the 31-mile Ice Age Trail corridor, and each shelter has a roof, fire ring, and pit toilet, with drinking water available within a short distance. These are walk-in sites, so all gear must be carried in and all refuse packed out.
What are the main highlights on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
One of the standout landmarks on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest is the Parnell Tower area. The Parnell Tower Trail climbs by a series of steps to the highest point in the forest, where a 60-foot observation tower looks out over the glacial landscape of kames, kettles, hardwood forest, and conifer plantations that define this section.
What is the best time of year to hike the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Late spring through fall is the most straightforward season for hiking this route, when trail facilities and parking areas are generally easiest to use. Winter hiking is still possible in parts of the forest, but some access changes seasonally, including the Parnell Tower parking lot, which closes during winter, and some snow-covered ski trails where hiking is not allowed.
Is hunting allowed near the Ice Age National Scenic Trail - Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Yes. In the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit, about 95% of the property is open to public hunting during established seasons, and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is specifically listed among the heavily used trails that pass through the forest. That makes blaze-orange clothing a smart precaution during Wisconsin hunting seasons, especially in fall.
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