Ice Age Trail 2019

I hiked a total of 102.8 miles on Wisconsin’s “Ice Age Trail” in 2019. My route took me South>North from Jefferson to Sheboygan County. If you’re planning on hiking anywhere along this trek, learn from my mistakes below!

Quick Tips for the Southeastern portion of the Ice Age Trail

Buy an atlas from www.iceagetrail.org
The detailed maps created by the Ice Age Trail Alliance are the best tool out there for staying on track during any segment of the IAT. A physical map also wont have its battery die during your journey (looking at you smartphone GPS).

Diners are the way to go
The IAT blazes through many small towns along the way. Sometimes down main street. A hot meal from a local joint keeps your spirits up and your backpack weight down. Also, you’ll stick out like a sore thumb with your trail gear and people are guaranteed to ask you about your hike. This is a great way to get to know people and maybe share a laugh.

I stopped in Slinger WI at Karina’s Cafe one morning and met just about everyone in town. Meeting locals is also a good way to finesse a ride to your next campsite if you’re feeling tired.

Call the Sheriff’s Department and do a “wellness check” on your parked vehicle
If you’re worried about your car being parked in an open lot for an extended period of time, call the county’s Sheriff Department to check in on it. A little kindness and appreciation goes a long way on the phone and they’re usually happy to do it. Let them know how long you’ll be out and it will stay on their radar to keep an eye on it.

I called about my car halfway through the trip and a kind officer quickly called me back with updates. My Jeep stayed untouched the whole 10-day trip luckily!

Bed and Breakfasts are the way to go
Usually cheaper than any hotel option. You also get a fancy breakfast if you’re needing a break from oatmeal or Rx bars. I stayed at a BnB on my last night of the trip and it was extremely refreshing.

Don’t sleep in a hammock in early spring
And don’t rely on historical temperature data when scheduling a trip. Even with my Eno under-quilt I didn’t feel insulated enough to sleep comfortably. I had to stop an a Sierra Trading Company and drop $$$ on a fancy sleeping bag to handle the 30ish degree nights.

Gear and Route Information