Explore the Beautiful Sandstone Bluffs of Gibraltar Rock, Wisconsin

The 9 mile Gibraltar Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through Wisconsin’s unique post-glacial terrain, providing a close up look at the remnant landforms of central Wisconsin’s glacial past. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is one of only 11 national scenic trails in the United States, encompassing over 1000 miles and 28 counties throughout the state of Wisconsin. You’ll be fascinated by the geology of 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 that illustrate the state’s unique glacial history. From hills and bluffs to woodlands, wetlands, 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 state.

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Ice Age Trail Access

The Gibraltar Segment of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail is an out and back route (4.8 miles each way) consisting of 4.0 miles of trail with 0.8 mile of connecting route. Check out the Gibraltar Segment Guidebook from the Ice Age Trail Atlas Map (62f). The trail can be accessed in a number of ways. Park at the ferry wayside parking area for the Merrimac Ferry in Lodi to begin your hike, or park at the State Natural Area on Highway 113.

Gibraltar State Natural Area

Owned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources since 2007, Gibraltar Rock was designated a state Natural area in 1969. To access the short, steep climb to the top of the sandstone bluff, park at the State Natural Area for a panoramic view of the Wisconsin River Valley. The State Natural Area trailhead is located just south of State Highway 113 in Columbia County, Wisconsin. There is no street address for the State Natural Area. Visit the DNR Website for directions and trail access points.

Ice Age Trail Atlas/Trail Maps

For detailed topographic maps, you can order a copy of the atlas online through the Ice Age Trail Alliance store, or pick up a hard copy of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail Atlas from the Department of Natural Resources Kettle Moraine State Forest Headquarters Office and Visitors Center, located at S91W39091 WI-59, Eagle, WI 53119.

Gibraltar Rock | Information and Hours

Hours:  Gibraltar Rock is open from 6am – 8pm daily, 365 days a year.  Summer and fall are the busiest seasons to access the trail.  A parking lot for the SNA is located along Highway 113.

Fees:  A state to park at the ferry wayside or the Gibraltar State Natural Area. Wisconsin residents: Vehicle passes are $28 for a 12-month pass, or $13 for a daily pass.  Non-Wisconsin residents: Vehicle passes are $50 for a 12-month pass, or $16 for a daily pass. Self-service kiosks are available to purchase vehicle admission passes, or online through the Wisconsin State Park System.

Gibraltar Scenic Views

Enjoy the expansive views of the Wisconsin River Valley and Lake Wisconsin from atop Gibraltar’s 200-foot sandstone bluff. Native plants like prairie smoke, pasque flower, bird’s foot violet, blue-eyed grass, and whorled milkweed can be observed along the trail. The sandstone bluff is dominated by red cedars atop a dry prairie.

All Trails Maps/App

You can find detailed information on Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail and the Gibraltar Segment 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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Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Spring

The Ice Age Trail is beautiful in the spring season as the spring ephemerals emerge. Check out three of my favorite spring hikes in the Kettle Moraine State Forest in southern Wisconsin in my blog post: Kettle Moraine State Forest | 3 Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes.

Get out there and enjoy your hike on the beautiful Gibraltar Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail!  

– Erin