Ice Age Trail Communities

Rice Lake

Welcome to the  City of Rice Lake 

Welcome to Rice Lake, a hidden gem just off the Ice Age Trail! As you step off the trail, you'll find yourself embraced by the warmth of our vibrant community, where the natural beauty of the glistening lake and river meets the charm of small-town hospitality. Whether you're here to explore our scenic parks, indulge in local culinary delights, or simply unwind by the tranquil waters of Rice Lake, we invite you to make the most of your visit. Enjoy every moment of your adventure, and let the serene landscapes and friendly faces of Rice Lake leave a lasting impression on your heart.  

Weyerhaeuser

Welcome to the  Village of Weyerhaeuser 

The Village of Weyerhaeuser, situated beneath the sunny slopes of the Blue Hills, proudly offers a humble, family-friendly community, an outstanding quality of life, and fantastic, four-season activities.

 Weyerhaeuser is also proud of its wonderful Community Park, complete with tennis courts, ball field, and large pavilion. Weyerhaeuser may be the pickleball capital of the world with its six brand-new outdoor acrylic and asphalt courts located in Community Park! Pack a set of paddles and plan to play a friendly game with the locals.

Cornell

Welcome to the  City of Cornell 

Start your visit in Cornell and the near-by Ice Age Trail segments with a stop to the Cornell Visitors Center. It is located just south and west of the structural steel landmark, which is listed in the National Directory of Historical Places and recognized by the State of Wisconsin Historical Society as the only stationary pulpwood stacker left standing in the world.

At the Visitors Center, you will find lots of information about what to do, where to eat, and what to see in and around Cornell, including maps of the local area.

Rib Lake

Welcome to the  Village of Rib Lake 

Located in Northeast Taylor County, the Village of Rib Lake rests on the terminus of the glacier from the most recent Ice Age, 15,000 years ago. Glacial hills north of the Village give way to flatter land to the South. Rib Lake began as a lumber mill town: being home to one of the biggest mills in the state from the 1880’s to the late 1960’s. The Town and Village of Rib Lake get their name from the 320-acre lake that is within the Village limits. Thanks to the Rib Lake Fish & Game stocking efforts, Rib Lake provides excellent fishing!

Ice Age Trail hikers are within one mile of the Village, making it an excellent resupply location. It is the only place close to the trail for 30+ miles to the East and 40+ miles to the West! The Village offers gas/convenience stores, lodging, coffee shop, taverns, laundromat, restaurants, and camping at Lakeview Park which is complete with restrooms and showers.

Timm’s Hill National Trail intersects with the IAT and goes North approximately 10 miles and takes you to the highest point in the State. Camping is available at Wood Lake along with a picnic area and swimming beach. The lake, owned and maintained by Taylor County, has a 3.6-mile loop trail featuring signs identifying logging history and natural features.

Merrill

Welcome to the  City of Merrill 

The City of Merrill, located along the scenic Wisconsin River at its confluence with the Prairie River, boasts 16 parks and more than 1,300 acres of parkland. Merrill proudly offers a small, family-friendly community with an outstanding quality of life: small-town charm, career opportunities, excellent schools, and fantastic four-season activities.

For hikers exploring Lincoln County’s nearby Ice Age Trail segments – Averill-Kelly Creek Wilderness, Turtle Rock, Grandfather Falls, and Underdown – Merrill offers plenty of lodging and dining options. Get your caffeine fix at First Street Coffee Station and celebrate a hike’s end at the Sawmill Brewing Company or Sutton’s Wine Bar. Shop boutiques, antiques, and thrift stores. And stop in at Northwoods Maple Farm for their maple butter and syrup.

Something is happening in Merrill year-round. Enjoy dog sled races and local ice fishing tournaments during winter; summer brings the Dairy Breakfast in June, and 4th of July fireworks; there’s the Labor Day Parade and Car Show; and the Lincoln Lager Barleyfest, and Pork in the Park BBQ. Plus, pick your own fresh fruits at various strawberry farms and apple orchards in the area and don’t forget about the Farmer’s Market.

Antigo

Welcome to the  City of Antigo 

The county seat of the “County of Trails”, Antigo welcomes residents and visitors alike with a relaxing, stress-free atmosphere. Unwind in Antigo and enjoy shopping, history, great food, and all of the best recreational opportunities in the Northwoods of Wisconsin has to offer. Be sure to start your visit in Antigo and the nearby Ice Age Trail segments with a stop to the Welcome Center in the heart of downtown Antigo (404 Superior St.), which is also the Langlade County Historical Society Museum. There you’ll learn about all things Antigo and Langlade County.

Greater Wausau Area

Welcome to the Greater  Wausau  Area

Discover the Greater Wausau area of central Wisconsin—a unique fusion of urban sophistication and natural beauty spanning Wausau, Rothschild, Schofield, Weston, and Rib Mountain. Wausau, the region's heart, is nestled along the Wisconsin River and Rib Mountain, providing a picturesque backdrop to its vibrant downtown. This area is renowned for its cultural and historical richness, economic vitality, and exceptional recreational opportunities. At the heart of it all, downtown Wausau buzzes with a vibrant array of shops, eclectic restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Hatley

Welcome to the  Village of Hatley 

The Village of Hatley offers hikers the essentials, beginning with the Hatley Hangout, a bar and grill on Clark Street. The nearly nine-mile Ringle Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail begins (or ends) a block away on Curtis Avenue, so it's easy to fortify or replenish calories lost to hiking. A Subway sandwich shop, a Frosty Freeze (summertime!), and a Dollar Store round out the amenities. Along with several gas stations and convenience stores. 

Portage

Welcome to the  City of Portage 

The City of Portage is dedicated to building on the past and providing a good quality of life in a safe and caring community. Portage is the third oldest community in Wisconsin located on the continental divide. It is also located between the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, which are connected by the Portage Canal built in 1876. The City of Portage welcomes Ice Age Trail users to the area with its growing community, including great outdoor recreational opportunities. On the Portage Segment, hikers will walk in the footsteps of explorers while enjoying many locally owned businesses. Stop and enjoy a break, while basking in the history of what came before.

Baraboo - West Baraboo

Welcome to the  City of Baraboo  and  Village of West Baraboo 

Baraboo and West Baraboo’s central location on the Ice Age Trail, vibrant community, and globally renowned glacial features, including the ever-popular Devil’s Lake State Park, make them a natural fit to be an Ice Age Trail Community. Baraboo’s picturesque downtown is a national historic landmark and features five buildings that are in the National Register of Historic Places. The communities are renowned for their weekend events, including large crafts fairs, concerts, fantastic parades, and much more.

As you hike along the Trail through Baraboo, you’ll be in the vicinity of many businesses and restaurants, which you can explore and enjoy.

Lodi

Welcome to the  City of Lodi 

Lodi, meaning peaceful valley, is located in the heart of scenic south-central Wisconsin in Columbia County. The City of Lodi is situated in a beautiful valley among gently rolling hills. The serene Spring Creek, a Class II trout stream, meanders through Lodi’s downtown and throughout several of its parks. The city boasts relaxed and active green spaces created by its diverse assortment of parks. Lodi provides a gateway to Lake Wisconsin and is located near the Wisconsin River. While hiking the nearby segments of the Ice Age Trail, you’ll experience first-hand the hills and bluffs in the area. The Gibraltar Rock Segment of the Trail is located near Lodi and the Merrimac Ferry and provides a stunning view of the valley below, as well as access to the Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area.

Lodi’s pedestrian-friendly downtown maintains many unique shops, eateries, and other amenities available to visitors. Historic buildings line Main Street providing a picturesque backdrop for the town’s activities. The Ice Age Trail runs through the downtown and is maintained by the dedicated Lodi Valley Volunteer Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Be sure to stop by the newly opened Chamber of Commerce.

Cross Plains

Welcome to the  Village of Cross Plains 

As home to the Ice Age Trail Alliance headquarters, the Village of Cross Plains is a proud Ice Age Trail Community. With more than four miles of Ice Age Trail directly within the Village and more within a short drive, Cross Plains is a great hiking designation. Enjoy a saunter along the Black Earth Creek, Glacial Valley Conservancy, and the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Anderson Preserve. When you’re ready for a snack-or meal-break, head over to Main St., where you can find a coffee shop and restaurants. Convenience stores, grocery, and gas are also located along the same stretch of road. If you’re in the area during the day Mon.-Fri., be sure to stop at Ice Age Trail Alliance headquarters to say hello. Staff loves to say hello to hikers.

Verona

Welcome to the  City of Verona  &  Town of Verona 

Make plans to visit Verona, an Ice Age Trail Community that boasts about six miles of continuous Ice Age Trail. As you plan your trip, make sure to take a break, grab a drink, or a meal at one of Verona’s locally-owned businesses. From Mexican to Italian, brewpubs to ice cream shops, there’s something for whatever you’re in the mood for. And no matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something going on in Verona, to do and see!

Janesville

Welcome to the  City of Janesville 

The City of Janesville, Wisconsin’s Park Place, is proud to be an Ice Age Trail Community and offer residents and visitors a 2,611-acre parks system, with 65 improved parks and more than 31 miles of paved bike and walking trails. In fact, the City of Janesville has more miles of Ice Age Trail located within its limits than any other Wisconsin community. These amenities are vital to a community’s quality of life, and it is because of partners like the Rock County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance that Janesville’s Trail segments are well-maintained, heavily used, and draw year-round visitors.

The city values the partnership with the volunteers of the Rock County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance in assisting us to achieve one of our strategic goals: “Safe & Healthy Community: To advance safety and overall well-being of residents and neighborhoods through cooperation and encouraging an active lifestyle.”

Milton

Welcome to the  City of Milton 

Milton is excited to be an Ice Age Trail Community! It’s well-preserved history, progressive attractions and opportunities, can be enjoyed by everyone who visits, especially those passing through on the Ice Age Trail.

The Milton segment meanders through the community so hikers can see everything it has to offer. The segment features many parks with restroom facilities and drinking fountains, and passes by the local post office.

The City of Milton will provide you and your family with a wide assortment of activities, experiences, history, and fun! Check out the free public splash pad and free public dog park!

Whitewater

Welcome to the  City of Whitewater 

As the gateway to the Kettle Moraine State Forest and an Ice Age Trail Community, Whitewater provides opportunities to experience the peacefulness of rolling hills and beautifully clear lakes during the day and to dine in a fine restaurant and enjoy a world-class performance at night. You are a short walk away from our unique hometown stores where everyone is treated like family and a short drive away from the metropolitan areas of Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago.

Steeped in history, Whitewater embraces the future with state-of-the-art facilities for education, entertainment, health, fitness and business. After exploring nearby Ice Age Trail segments, come explore Whitewater.

Palmyra

Welcome to  Palmyra 

Nestled between Madison and Milwaukee, Palmyra offers a welcoming, tight-knit community surrounded by nature’s beauty. Tucked within the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Palmyra rests along the upper stretch of the Scuppernong River.

Stroll through Palmyra’s 150-year-old historic downtown to find a blend of small-town convenience and local character. Dining options abound, including spots serving a true Wisconsin classic—the Friday Night Fish Fry. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore: from hiking the Ice Age Trail to mountain biking, frisbee golf, and horseback riding. With its rich history, natural splendor, and warm community spirit, Palmyra is where nature, tradition, and small-town charm come together.

Delafield

Welcome to the  City of Delafield 

“It’s in our nature. Everything about Delafield fits perfectly. From our breathtaking outdoors to our diverse dining, and from our spirited shopping to our thriving business community, you’ll fall in love with this charming city that feels just right.” ---City of Delafield Tourism, Promotions & Economic Development

Two beautiful segments of the Ice Age Trail are located in the Delafield area. The 3.5-mile Delafield Segment is shared by the Lake Country Recreation Trail. Take the Lake Country Recreation Trail west towards downtown Delafield and continue west pas the Delafield Fish Hatchery on Main Street. Turn left on Cushing Park Road for 0.5 miles, as you enter the 7.8 Lapham Peak Segment of the Ice Age Trail and Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit. After your hike, stop in at one of the many locally owned retail businesses, coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, and breweries.

Hartland

Welcome to the  Village of Hartland 

The Village of Hartland has the distinction of being the first Ice Age Trail Community! Hartland, a village nestled in the midst of “Lake Country”, appeals with its vibrant, small-town charm and plenty of amenities offered by a thriving business district. Hartland’s charm is enhanced by extraordinary green spaces for residents and visitors alike. Numerous, well-maintained Village parks (99 acres of parkland) are tucked throughout the community. The Hartland Marsh, a property owned and maintained by the Ice Age Trail Alliance, offers a natural, untamed piece of land for exploration and contemplation. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail, itself, winds its way through the heart of downtown as it takes thru-hikers and local residents out on a day hike, past glacial features. The pedestrian-friendly downtown is home to many restaurants, retail, professional, and service businesses. Hartland benefits from a charming downtown shopping district, the Hartbrook Mall, Merton Plaza, and Cottonwood Plaza, each offering unique shops. Ample parking and a great selection of shops and services make Hartland a destination of choice.

Slinger

Welcome to the  Village of Slinger 

Slinger is very excited to be an Ice Age Trail Community. Although the Slinger segment of the Ice Age Trail is relatively short (2.1 miles), it runs directly through the middle of the village. And, Slinger’s Community Park, 128 Kettle Moraine Drive N, is actually situated right along the Ice Age Trail, providing hikers with a lovely rest stop including: playground equipment, bathroom facilities, athletic fields, and an informational kiosk. Slinger is located directly between the very scenic Kettle Moraine - Pike Lake Unit and Cedar Lakes Segments, which gives local residents and visitors many options for inspirational and refreshing day hikes. Make plans to explore Slinger today!

West Bend

Welcome to the  City of West Bend 

A sparkling river walk, an award-winning Museum of Wisconsin Art, a bustling Saturday farmers market, a labyrinth garden and a sculpture walk are all in the area surrounding the charming historic downtown district overlooking the Milwaukee River. Thriving businesses, unique shops, restaurants, outdoor concerts and special events, all brimming with true local flavor, will entice you to enjoy, stay and play.

Manitowoc-Two Rivers

Welcome to the Cities of  Manitowoc  &  Two Rivers 

Thousands of visitors are drawn to Manitowoc and Two Rivers each year not only to hike the Ice Age Trail, but also explore the USS Cobia World War II submarine, tour Rogers Street Fishing Village to view relics of famous shipwrecks, or sail across Lake Michigan on the S. S. Badger.

You’re invited to explore 20 miles of spectacular Lake Michigan shoreline. From the pristine coastline with its stunning parks and beaches and marinas, to historic downtowns and outdoor band concerts, Manitowoc-Two Rivers is a maritime treasure to visit, as well as, a wonderful place to hike.

Algoma

Friendly  Algoma  Welcomes You. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan and spread out along the banks of the Ahnapee River, Algoma invites lingering along your Thousand-Mile journey.

Stroll the beautiful sand beach and boardwalk lakeside, relax with a glass of wine from a historic winery, or grab a cold one from the local brewery. Spend time browsing delightful shops and enjoying meals at the many notable restaurants.

Immerse yourself in Algoma’s vibrant arts community: Embark on a self-guided tour of murals, art galleries, and studios showcasing local talent. Enjoy a meander on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail as it travels through downtown and follows a scenic boardwalk along Lake Michigan before connecting with the Ahnapee State Trail.