| ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL |
The 1,000 mile Ice Age National
Scenic Trail is a continuous footpath through diverse landscapes
that follows the features that mark the furthest advance of the
last glacier in Wisconsin. Because of its tremendous geological
significance, the trail is one of the only 8 national scenic trail.
This 49 mile non-motorized segment runs diagonally across the
forest in Taylor County. Traversing eskers and moraines, around
kettle lakes and holes, the trail gives hikers intimate contact
with the land forms that were created when the last glacier covered
Wisconsin. Cross country skiing, showshoeing, and dog sled use
are allowed in winter. Motorized and horse use on the trail is prohibited.
Trail Lengths: Forest Road 102 to County Highway E - 11.8
miles; County Highway E to Forest Road 108 - 13.9 miles; Forest
Road 108 to Jerry Lake - 6.6 miles; Jerry Lake to State Highway
64 - 10.6 miles; Ice Age Loop - 7 miles.
What to Expect: Many species of trees, wild flowers, and
wildlife can be observed along the trail. Developed campsites
and drinking water near the trail are available around the Mondeaux
flowage. Camping is allowed at least 100 feet away from the trail
or 50 feet away from any waters edge. There are many access points
to the trail for tthose wishing to only hike a portion of the
trail. Developed parking areas are available a the Mondeaux Flowage,
Jerry Lake and Highway 64 where the trail enters the Forest. When
hiking in the spring and during rainy weather, it's a good idea to wear rubber boots because
much of the trail can be wet.
Trailhead Directions:
Highway 64: From Medford, drive west on State Highway 64
for 19 miles. The trailhead is located on the right (north) side
of the road.
Jerry Lake: From Medford, drive north on State Highway
13 for 4.5 miles. Turn left (west) on County Highway M and drive
13 miles to Forest Road 571. Turn right (north) and drive 0.75
mile to the parking lot.
Highway E: From State Highway 13 in Westboro, drive west
on County Highway D 8.2 miles to County Highway E. Turn left (south)
on E and Drive 3.5 miles to the trailead.
FR 101: From State Highway 13 in Westboro, drive west on
County Highway D 2.75 miles. Turn left (south) on FR 101 and follow
it 4.1 miles to the trailhead.
These trails are located near Spearhead Point, Eastwood, Westpoint, and Picnic Point Campgrounds.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Map
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