Hike the Beautiful Ice Age Trail | Eagle, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is home to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. One of only 11 National scenic trails in the United States, this beautiful trail encompasses over 1000 miles and 28 counties throughout Wisconsin. Numerous segment hikes in southern Wisconsin include scenic views, hilly terrain, and native plants. The Eagle segment hike provides a lens into Wisconsin’s glacial past.

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Glacial History of Wisconsin

Sculpted by receding glaciers over 12,000 years ago, the state of Wisconsin is home to varied and beautiful landscapes. Landscapes include hills and bluffs, woodlands, and prairies rich with native plants. Visitors from across the country hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski (in some segments!) through the diverse landscapes of this beautiful trail.

During the winter season, the trail takes on peaceful quiet that any outdoor enthusiast can appreciate. You will be fascinated by the geology of the Ice Age Trail and the story of Wisconsin’s unique glacial history.

Eagle, Wisconsin

Located in Waukesha County, the Eagle segment of the Ice Age Trail traverses 5.6 miles from State Highway 67 to State Highway 59. The Eagle Segment passes through wetlands, wide oak savannas, and restored prairie filled with native plants in spring and summer. The trail includes a unique outcrop of the Niagara Escarpment called Brady’s Rocks. This layer of dolomite extends northeast through Door County, Wisconsin, re-emerging at the eastern end of Lake Erie at Niagara Falls.

Brady’s Rocks

Brady’s Rocks has a unique history. This dolomite outcrop from the Silurian period was mined in the 1800s by Irish immigrant Michael Brady. The angular shape of the limestone in the outcrop is distinct from its surrounding glacial erratics.  Glacial erratics are large boulders carried, weathered, and deposited by the receding glaciers.

Brady’s Rocks has been home to numerous conservative fern species during the growing season. Examples include Cliff Brake fern, Fragile fern, and Walking fern which grow from cracks in the dolomite bedrock.

Eagle, WI | Local Restaurants

Looking for a bite to eat after your hike? Check out Rustix Grill in downtown Eagle (105 Main Street – Eagle, WI 53121) – a casual bar and grill serving burgers, fish and chips, craft beer and cocktails.Additionally Sandwich Sisters is located a couple doors east of Rustix Grill at 121 East Main Street serves a variety of deli-style sandwiches, seasonal soups, and weekly specials. Open daily 10am-7pm; 10am-2pm Sunday, closed Monday.

Nearby Ice Age Trail Segments

In southern and central Wisconsin, there are numerous beautiful segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that are equally scenic, diverse, and challenging to hike. You’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes. Hilly terrain, open prairies, and pine plantations dominate Kettle Moraine State Forest. There are many natural wonders to enjoy. 

The Ice Age Trail is also beautiful in the spring season as the spring ephemerals emerge. If you’re interested in exploring the segments of the IAT within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, read on for more information in my blog post: Kettle Moraine State Forest | 3 Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes.

AllTrails Maps

You can find detailed information on Wisconsin’s many scenic trails on the AllTrails website and AllTrails app. Search 500,000+ trails by state and trail type – includes photos, maps, and detailed trail reviews. To explore the AllTrails app, sign up for a  Free 7-day trial HERE.

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