The 5.6 mile Scuppernong Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail travels through Wisconsin’s unique post-glacial terrain. Throughout the state, this scenic trail passes through landforms left behind as glaciers receded from southern Wisconsin. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is one of only 11 National scenic trails in the United States. This trail encompasses over 1000 miles and 28 counties throughout the state of Wisconsin. You will be fascinated by the diverse landscapes along the Ice Age Trail, and Wisconsin’s unique glacial history.
Glacial History of Wisconsin
Sculpted by receding glaciers over 12,000 years ago, the state of Wisconsin is home to diverse landscapes. From hills and bluffs to woodlands and prairies rich with native plants, Midwestern residents and visitors from all over the country are fortunate to hike, snowshoe, and even cross-country ski (in some segments!) the diverse landscapes of this beautiful trail.
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Scuppernong Segment | Ice Age Trail
Located in Waukesha County, this 5.6-mile Ice Age Trail segment travels from County Highway C to State Highway 67 through hilly terrain including hardwood forests and glacial kettles.
Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail
Just a mile west of the Scuppernong segment are Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail (S59 W36630 Cty Rd ZZ, Dousman, WI 53118) and Ottowa Lake Recreation Area, (S59 W36530 County ZZ Dousman, WI 53118) where visitors can swim, boat, picnic, hike, and camp. Learn more about the Ottawa Lake Recreation Area facilities.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the area surrounding Scuppernong Springs was home to a hotel, sawmill, and trout hatchery. The spring itself, which is about 48 degrees, bubbles from the ground where groundwater reaches the surface. Dogs are not permitted on the Scuppernong Springs Trail.
Wisconsin’s Post-Glacial Landforms | Scuppernong Segment
Kettle: Kettles are round depressions formed by melting blocks of ice. As glaciers receded, large blocks of ice detached (calved), leaving depressions in the landscape. These round depressions are known as kettles.
Kame: Kames are round hills of glacial sediment (sand and gravel) formed from meltwater streams from glaciers and arranged in layers. Kettles and kames are often found in close proximity. This is known as kettle and kame topography.
Esker: Eskers are long, sinuous ridges of glacial sediment (sand and gravel) formed from meltwater streams. Glaciers deposited sediment beneath them as they melted. These unique features appear snake-like from above, extending for hundreds of meters or even hundreds of kilometers. Eskers vary in size and shape, with some with flat tops and others with sharp ridges.
Ice Age Trail Atlas/Trail Maps | Scuppernong Segment
For detailed topographic maps, pick up a copy of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail Atlas (hard copy or e-version) from the Department of Natural Resources Kettle Moraine State Forest Headquarters Office and Visitors Center, located at S91W39091 WI-59, Eagle, WI 53119, or order a copy of the atlas online through the Ice Age Trail Alliance store.
All Trails Maps/App
You can find detailed information on Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail on the AllTrails website and AllTrails app. Search 500,000+ trails by state and trail type – includes photos, maps, and detailed trail reviews.
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Scuppernong Segment | Scenic Ice Age Trail Beauty
The Kettle Moraine State Forest and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is scenic, diverse, and challenging to hike. Enjoy a variety of landscapes, hilly terrain, open prairies, and pine plantations, and plenty of natural wonders to enjoy.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Spring
The Ice Age Trail is beautiful in the spring season as the spring ephemerals emerge. Read on to learn about three of my favorite spring hikes in my blog post Kettle Moraine State Forest | 3 Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes.
Enjoy your hike along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail!
– Erin
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