Plan Your Visit

Chippewa Moraine Segment of the Ice Age Trail near the David R. Obey Ice Age Interpretive Center in New Auburn, WI.

NPS Photo / Billy Flynn

About the Ice Age Trail

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200‑mile footpath that winds across Wisconsin, tracing the edge of a colossal glacier that once blanketed the state. Stretching from Potawatomi State Park on the shores of Lake Michigan to Interstate State Park along Wisconsin’s western border, the trail leads hikers through open prairies, dense forests, rolling hills, and a stunning variety of glacial landscapes. Established in 1980 to highlight the remarkable features shaped during the last Ice Age, it is one of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States.

Whether you’re planning a short afternoon hike or a multi‑day adventure, the information below will help you prepare.

 

Current Conditions

Check the Alerts & Conditions page for current trail reroutes and closures that may affect trip planning.

Trail alert information comes from the Ice Age Trail Alliance, the official nonprofit partner of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

 

Maps

The map below gives a general overview of the trail and highlights some important points of interest.

A comprehensive trail atlas and guidebook is available for purchase from the Ice Age Trail Alliance. The Alliance also maintains an interactive trail map.

 

 

Official trail marker logo for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

NPS

Trail Signs and Blazes

Trail Marker

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is identified by its official emblem, a stylized woolly mammoth. This symbol reflects the Trail’s glacial heritage and appears on signs, maps, and other official materials to help visitors recognize the designated route.

Blazes

Blazes are simple painted markings placed on trees, posts, or other features to help hikers follow the Trail with confidence.

Here’s what each blaze means:

• Yellow Blazes: These indicate the main Ice Age Trail route. Follow yellow blazes to stay on the official, primary footpath.

• Blue Blazes: These mark spur trails or short side trails that connect to parking areas, campsites, scenic features, or other points of interest.

• White Blazes: Occasionally used to mark connectors or special routes, depending on the segment. Always check local maps or signs for clarification.

 

Yellow blazes mark the main route of the Ice Age Trail.

NPS Photo / Billy Flynn

 

Blue Blazes mark spur trails or short side trails that connect to parking areas, campsites, scenic features, or other points of interest.

NPS Photo / Billy Flynn

 

NPS

Camping

Camping opportunities along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail vary widely. Because the Trail crosses many types of public and private lands, overnight options differ from one segment to the next. In most areas, camping is allowed only in designated locations. In others, local land managers permit more flexible camping.

Hikers should review options in advance using the Hiker Resource Map provided by the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Traditional Campgrounds

Traditional campgrounds are developed areas that typically include vehicle access and amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings. Many public and private campgrounds are located on or near the Trail. These sites often require reservations or fees.

The Hiker Resource Map is an excellent tool for locating campground options along your planned route.

 

Dispersed camping area sign.

NPS Photo / Billy Flynn

Dispersed Camping Areas

Dispersed Camping Areas (DCAs) are simple, no‑frills locations intended to support long‑distance, multi‑day hikers. DCAs do not require reservations or permits, but hikers must follow specific guidelines:

• Camp within sight of the DCA sign
• Maximum group size of six
• One night per stay
• No fires except for backpacking stoves
• Leave no trace of your visit
• Wash yourself and dishes at least 200 feet from water
• Dispose of human or pet waste in a 6‑inch cathole when no facility is provided

 

Primitive camping area shown on the Hiker Resource Map from the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Ice Age Trail Alliance

Primitive Camping Areas

Primitive camping is available generally on large tracts of public land such as county or national forests. These areas offer a remote experience with no developed facilities. Some pimritive camping areas may require a permit.

Review primitive camping areas using the Hiker Resource Map provided by the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Backpacking Shelters

Backpacking shelters provide a more structured overnight option. These areas may include a pit toilet, fire ring, or Adirondack‑style shelter. Reservations or fees may be required.

Examples include shelters in the Northern and Southern Units of the Kettle Moraine State Forest and the backpacking sites at Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area. All backpacking shelters must be reserved in advance.