The Ice Age Trail from Mill Road to Nuclear Road is often flooded in spring or after heavy rain. To bypass this section, follow CTH-B between CTH-BB and Nuclear Road.
Full details →+4 more active alerts
Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
If you are planning a trip to Wisconsin, visiting Ice Age National Scenic Trail should definitely be on your list. This beautiful national scenic trail is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have just a few hours or a whole weekend, there is plenty to explore.
About Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a national scenic trail located in Wisconsin. Wisconsin has four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold, often bringing significant snowfall. Weather conditions can vary widely throughout the year and location on the trail. Prepare accordingly for each season when visiting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail spans nearly 1,200 miles across Wisconsin. Major commercial airports are located in cities and regional hubs throughout the state, offering access to the trail. Numerous trailheads with parking are available, allowing you to explore the trail at various entry points along the route.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Ice Age is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Ice Age National Scenic Trail offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Camping, Backcountry Camping, Fishing, Hands-On, and 7 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Ice Age
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Ice Age
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Ice Age before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 5 active alerts for Ice Age. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Secure Campsites Early: Lodging and developed campgrounds within and surrounding Ice Age get booked out months in advance. Make reservations on recreation.gov as early as the window opens.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Ice Age. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail spans 1,200 miles, traverses some of Wisconsin's finest geologic and glacial features, and passes through the ancestral lands of 15 Tribes. The Trail is built, managed and maintained by dedicated volunteers, Ice Age Trail Alliance, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, local partners, and the National Park Service.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Ice Age
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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