MARATHON COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Hikers have been flocking to Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail.
The trail has gotten more attention in recent years, and as people seek outdoor activities due to COVID-19, that attention is only ramping up.
A faded yellow marker guides hikers down Dells Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail near Ringle, in Marathon County. The inviting pathway is rustic by design. Hiker Justin Smith says he’s enjoying every step.
“Last year, actually, I hiked the Appalachian Trail. That was a life-changer for me, and that made me hooked on through hiking. I was actually going to do the Pacific Crest Trail this year, but with everything going on, I decided to stay in our state, and do this one,” said Justin Smith, Lake Tomahawk.
Smith plans to hike the entire 1,200 Ice Age Trail. On August 10th, he started in St. Croix Falls in the western part of the state. He plans to finish near Sturgeon Bay on September 20th.
“It’s just a beautiful part of the state. If you’ve not been to Marathon County, Ice Age Trail Segment from the Dells of the Eau Claire, near Ringle, it’s just beautiful,” said Mike Wollmer, Ice Age Trail Alliance Executive Director & CEO.
The Ice Age Trail Alliance maintains the system, Trails in the Ringle Segment are scheduled to get upgrades in October.
“It connects people with the land that we call Wisconsin. It builds confidence, self-confidence in being able to deal with the storms of life, by hiking,” said Tim Malzhan, Ice Age Trail Alliance Trailway Director.
Justin Smith agrees, he plans to average about 25-30 miles per day.
“Kind of challenging myself and stepping out of my comfort zone a little bit, and doing something new,” he said.
Hikers can celebrate the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s 40th anniversary by taking part in the Mammoth Hike Challenge. For those who hike 40 miles in October, a certificate, and commemorative patch will be awarded.
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