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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 Segment | Ice Age Trail Access

Located in Waukesha County, the Eagle segment of the Ice Age Trail traverses 5.6 miles from State Highway 67 to State Highway 59. You can access the trail on Highway 67 via the trailhead parking lot at W364S7310 WI-67. A vehicle admission sticker is required to park at trailheads throughout the Kettle Moraine State Forest. These can be purchased online, at Forest Headquarters or at kiosks located at many trailheads. The Ice Age Trail is free to hike.

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.

Eagle Segment Terrain

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

Southern and central Wisconsin is full of numerous beautiful segment hikes along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Each of these hikes are scenic, diverse, and beautiful in their own ways. You’ll enjoy varied terrain, open prairies, rocky bluffs, and pine plantations that 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 wildflowers 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 recent article: Kettle Moraine State Forest | 3 Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes.

Kettle Moraine State Forest | 3 Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes

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AllTrails Maps

You can find detailed information on Wisconsin’s many scenic trails on AllTrails. Search 500,000+ trails by state and trail type, with photos, maps, and detailed trail reviews. Sign up for a  Free 7-day trial HERE.

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Outdoor Gear Recommendations

As a lifelong Midwesterner, I’ve experienced the outdoors in all four seasons (sometimes all in one day!) and the various conditions that come with it! Over the years I’ve learned what works in all conditions – gear that is comfortable, breathable, well made, durable, and functional. Check out my recent recommendations – I recommend products that I personally wear or use, from companies that I support.