Tag Archives: Dane County

Winter Solstice Hike – Springfield Hill Segment

Join the fun on Thursday, December 21, 2023 to celebrate the Winter Solstice on the Ice Age Trail! 

Details

Dress for the weather. Headlamps and/or flashlights will be needed. There are no bathroom facilities available at the Springfield Hill Segment.

After the hike, enjoy FREE hot cocoa provided by the Dane County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. All are welcome, including well-behaved and leashed dogs.

Springfield Hill Segment
This segment, a short loop that can be hiked in either direction, highlights the 198-acre Springfield Hill Natural Resource Area. This property consists of steep wooded valleys, glacial kettle ponds, and open meadow. The stunning prairie changes with the seasons and demonstrates what’s possible through extensive and ongoing restoration efforts. The Trail’s route provides outstanding views from atop Springfield Hill, one of the highest points in the area.

Photo by Joe Ulmer. 

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

When: Saturday, November 18,  9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.   

Where:  University Ridge Golf Course.  Enter through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.  Park in the large parking lot near the clubhouse.  See map.

Parking:  Please park in the area shown on the attached map.

What to wear/what to bring: Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose.  Leather gloves are a must.  Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.

Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  Go to:  https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf

Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.

Questions?  Call, email or text me.

Happy Trails

Link to map: University golf course map 11-18-23

A Road Walk Becomes a Walk in the Woods!

Posted on

The final MSC Trailbuilding project for 2023 in Cross Plains brought a record number of volunteers and service hours.

A group of volunteers gather in a circle at the Cross Plains Segment for a morning meeting prior to the Trailbuilding event.
A record breaking number of volunteers gathered for the final 2023 MSC Trailbuilding Project in Cross Plains. Photo by Amy Lord.
The five-day trailbuilding project from October 18 – October 22 along the Cross Plains Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail ticked a lot of boxes: Enthusiastic volunteers, great weather, even better food, vibrant autumn color, an evening watching UW-Madison’s women’s volleyball on the big screen (literally), and pumpkin carving! As a bonus, volunteers built 3.1 miles of tread, including a 0.6-mile white-blazed loop trail.
Continue reading →

Habitat Improvement: Invasive Brush Control, SwampLovers’ Preserve, Table Bluff Segment, Dane County

What You’ll Help Do:
Remove invasive brush from the oak savannas and woodlands in the Alliance-owned Swamplovers’ Preserve using loppers and hand saws. Trained sawyers will bring down invasive trees, too. These efforts maintain habitat diversity and ecosystem quality while preparing the Preserve for future broadcast burning. Provided there is adequate snow cover, we’ll burn the brush piles, too.

Schedule:
Join us each day, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Friday, January 10, and Saturday, January 11, and learn what it takes to maintain the lush prairies and savannas of these Preserves.

Lunch is provided each day.

All Talents and Abilities Welcome!
We need brush haulers and trained swampers (volunteers who create brush piles) and brush-cutters. NPS certified sawyers are welcome and encouraged to bring their own chainsaw and PPE.

However, no experience is necessary and there’s a role for volunteers of all ages and abilities. Certified and friendly staff and volunteer crew leaders will provide hands-on training to get you started right away.

Registration:
To help us plan this event with your needs in mind, please register by Monday, January 6, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

Limit: 50 volunteers.

 

 

 

Parking and Volunteer Check-In

  • Details about parking and volunteer check-in will be sent in confirmation email several days ahead of the event.
  • Parking may be limited this time of year, so please consider ride-sharing.
  • There is no overnight camping or base camp for this project.

What to Bring

  • Winter-appropriate footwear. If snowy/icy, consider snowshoes and ice cleats (Micro Spikes, Yak Traks, etc.) for secure footing.
  • A plastic sled and/or backpack for hauling gear may prove helpful.
  • Appropriate ‘near-fire’ clothing (no synthetics – leave that fancy coat at home).
  • Clothing to dress in layers (for warmth and to keep dry).
  • A daypack, sunscreen, and leather gloves.
  • A water bottle(s) and a thermos filled with a warm beverage.
  • NPS certified sawyers are welcome and encouraged to bring your own saw and PPE.

Questions?
Please contact Steve Pence, Land Restoration Specialist, by emailing: Steve@iceagetrail.org

We hope to see you soon!

Happy Trails,

The Table Bluff Segment Project Team

 

Mammoth Hike Challenge BINGO

Join Monty and the Ice Age Trail Alliance for this FUN Mammoth Hike Challenge event = BINGO at Nineteen09 Wine Bar in Cross Plains.

No registration needed but early arrival is suggested to get a table.

IATA staff and volunteers, along with Monty, will be onsite at 4:00 selling merchandise, answering questions and talking Trail. BINGO takes place 5:00 – 7:00 pm. $5 per card. Prizes every round.

Event Details: 

  • Sunday, October 15
  • 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
  • BINGO takes place 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Mammoth Hike Challenge TRAIL MAGIC: Nineteen09 will be donating 20% of all sales from Sunday, October 15 to the Ice Age Trail Alliance!

New to Nineteen09? They are a locally owned wine bar, gift shop and event venue in Cross Plains, WI. Enjoy a glass of wine, specialty cocktail or mocktail, along with locally crafted beer in a historic building or if the weather is nice, outside on their beautiful patio. Check out their website to learn more, www.nineteen09.com.

Explore Cross Plains, an Ice Age Trail Community, before heading to Nineteen09 and bingo.

       

 

 

 

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

I’m planning a trail improvement day at University Ridge golf course.  We’re going to make a huge improvement at the Woods Road trailhead!  In a few hours we will transform this area from buckthorn jungle to an attractive Ice Age NST trailhead.
What: Clear invasive brush to improve forest health, reveal the area’s natural beauty and enhance the hiking experience.  Pile the cut brush for winter burning.
Chain sawyers: We can use gas chain saws in this area.  Your help will be much appreciated.  Battery-powered saw?  We love you too!
When: Sunday, July 23,  9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.   
Where:  University Ridge Golf Course.  Enter through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.
Parking:  Please park in the area shown on the attached map.  PLEASE DO NOT PARK ON WOODS ROAD–THE SHOULDER IS NARROW AND STEEP.  TRAFFIC MOVES FAST ON THIS ROAD.  INSTEAD, PARK SAFELY IN THE AREA SHOWN ON THE ATTACHED MAP.
What to wear/what to bring: Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose.  Leather gloves are a must.  It is tick season.  Wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin.  Tick-borne illness is no fun!  Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  Go to:  https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf 
Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.
If you plan to help on July 23, please reply to this message.  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies.  It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.
Questions?  Call, email or text me.  I hope to see you on July 23!

Happy Trails

Link to details: July 23 workday map

Future in the Outdoors – Stewardship Social

Join fellow young professionals for a summer evening of stewardship, snacks, and fun!

The Ice Age Trail Alliance invites young professionals to a special Future in the Outdoors “Stewardship Social” volunteer event. This event is a fun way to learn more about the Alliance’s Habitat Improvement program, support the native wildflowers, and increase habitat for critical pollinators. It is also a great way to try your hand at volunteering, meet other young professionals interested in the outdoors, and even find a hiking buddy for the upcoming 2023 Mammoth Hike Challenge!

Future in the Outdoors – Stewardship Social will take place at the southern end of the Table Bluff Segment on Picnic Hill Prairie in the Swamplovers Preserve (Cross Plains/Dane County), one of the most diverse restored dry prairies in the area.

Project Description:

Invasive species are a sad reality for land conservation efforts.  They usually lack natural predators that keep them under control in their native ranges, leading to out-competition of native species which decreases high quality habitat for insects, birds, butterflies and other critters. The Picnic Hill Prairie on the Swamplovers Preserve has been well established for years but still needs regular tending to help the native species compete against invasive ones.

The work will include walking carefully through a medium tall prairie full of stunning wildflowers and ‘spot weeding’ invasive plants. We’ll discuss a few target weed species and explain how to identify them. From there, we will split into small groups to start weeding. You’ll have an expert close by to help answer any questions and help identify what stays and what gets pulled. Enjoy a social and snacks after weeding.

See map of the project area[PDF].

Schedule:

Thursday, August 17, 2023* @ 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

  • 5:30 p.m. Arrive, park and hike up to Picnic Hill Prairie (there is a steep incline on the trip up)
  • 6:00 – 6:15 p.m. Welcome – Introductions – Project Overview
  • 6:15 – 7:30 p.m. Get your hands dirty! Weeding in the prairie.
  • 7:30 – 8:00 p.m. Social and snacks*, self-led hiking.

What to Bring:

  • Gardening gloves
  • Close-toed shoes
  • Sun hat/sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Long pants, long sleeve shirt (we will be in tall grass)
  • Personal drinking water and container
  • Picnic or snacks**
  • Raingear – we will work in light rain, please check the forecast

*The rain date is Thursday, August 24, 2023.

**The Ice Age Trail Alliance will provide light refreshments and snacks. A porta potty is available onsite.

We love dogs, but we ask that you not bring them to this event. Wooly mammoths are welcome.

Registration is FREE, but spots are limited!

Register today to save your spot and help us plan accordingly!

Volunteers in Parks Information:

No experience is necessary and volunteers of all ages are welcome, provided youth attend with an adult chaperone. If you are NEW to volunteering with the Ice Age Trail Alliance, please submit the volunteer agreement before the event, see below for more details.

  • Please complete this Volunteer Agreement, OF-301A Fillable Form.
  • Please email the completed form to Dan Watson, NPS Volunteer Coordinator, (daniel_watson@nps.gov).
  • Dan will reply to you with a signed copy of the form.

 

Featured image by: Cameron Gillie

Dane County Chapter Hike – Montrose Segment

Photo Credit: Brent Sieling

The Hike

The Trail starts from the parking lot heading south between two agricultural fields before entering a wooded area, and then winds uphill and west before turning to the south, passing an impressive bedrock outcropping dotted with ferns. It then continues east through an agricultural field and turns southeast to a high plateau. The Trail turns east when entering another woods, and drops down a ridge, then continues south across a farm field and reenters the woods. From this point the segment climbs gradually up the west side of a sandstone ridge, eventually making its way to a fine goat prairie and trailside bench with outstanding views across a glacial outwash plain to the Sugar River watershed and the city of Belleville. The segment takes a northeast turn and crosses a high prairie plateau before entering a woods and turns southeast to reach Cty Hwy D.

Event Details

We’ll hike the Ice Age Trail south while traversing through wooded and prairie areas. From sandstone vistas we’ll see the surrounding Sugar River Valley area. This is an out and back moderate hike (from Frenchtown Rd to Hwy D) with some rolling hills and with a total distance of about 5.5 miles.

Well behaved dogs are welcome on leash.

Be aware of possible Hwy 69 construction and allow extra time to arrive as portions may be closed. May need to access Frenchtown Rd from either Hwy PB (west) or Hwy D (east).

Location

Meet at Parking lot at the intersection of Piller Rd and Frenchtown Rd.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Verona Segment

Photo Credit: David Lonsdorf

The Hike

The Prairie Moraine section of the Verona Segment starts at the gate in the northwest corner of the parking lot, adjacent to the fenced off dog exercise area, and heads north before turning to the east. It then climbs a few switchbacks to a saddle of the terminal moraine on the St. Peter sandstone bedrock. There is a spur trail to the east to a viewing platform offering views of a ravine cut in the moraine by meltwater and of the upper Sugar River Valley in the Driftless Area to the south. The Ice Age Trail continues from the junction with the spur trail to the northwest about 0.8 miles, descending along the north-northwest side of the moraine before heading north through the woods for a short bit. The Trail then crosses Cty Hwy PB at the end of the median in the road (caution: heavy traffic), before going south to enter the Moraine Kettles portion of the Verona segment. As you head west on the segment, you will see a sign the noting the old section of roadway for the County Farm Paoli Road that was in use from 1882 to 1929. The Trail continues to the west before turning north to cut through a prairie with tall grasses and wildflowers. The next set of woods has several kettle ponds formed from ice buried when the glaciers retreated, subsequently melting to form a depression that usually fills with water. Finally there is another small prairie before reaching the Moraine Kettles parking lot and Cty Hwy M.

Event Details

Time for an evening hike on the Ice Age Trail at Prairie Moraine County Park, southeast Verona. We’ll hike through prairies and woods where you can enjoy Dane County’s most visible section of the glacial terminal moraine. Total will be 2.5-3 miles as we’ll enjoy the trail up to County M through a section we call Moraine Kettles due to some nice kettle ponds we’ll go by. We’ll also explore off the IAT in Prairie Moraine a little by going up to the observation platform for some great views of the Sugar River valley.

Location

At the gate/kiosk in the first lot as soon as you turn on Wesner Rd.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Brooklyn Wildlife Segment

Photo Credit:  MacKenzie McDermit.

The Hike

The Brooklyn Wildlife segment traverses an area featuring highly eroded glacial deposits from an earlier glacial advance more than 60,000 years ago. The segment highlights meadows, woodlands, oak savannas, and colorful prairies. The variety of habitats in the area results in great bird-watching opportunities. Herons and cranes fish in the Story Creek wetlands and plenty of turkeys resting with their young can be stirred up on sandy portions of the segment. Volunteers from the Friends of Brooklyn Wildlife Area and the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Dane County Chapter have worked extensively on prairie restoration and removal of invasive species throughout the Brooklyn Wildlife Area. When heading north from the blue spur trail from the Hwy DD South parking lot, you will encounter a particularly impressive overlook and view from the Trail of the Story Creek wetlands and the Johnstown Moraine. Heading south of the blue spur trail will lead to a trail-side hand water pump.

Event Details

We’ll explore several miles of the Brooklyn Wildlife Area along the Ice Age Trail — maybe around 5 miles total. There’s several parking areas on that segment – we’re meeting in the larger one in the middle of the segment. Should see lots of summer prairie plants, but we’ll also be in some wooded areas that should be a bit shadier at times.

Well behaved dogs on leash are welcome.

Location

The ‘Hwy DD South’ parking lot entrance is about .8 miles south of the Dane County Hwy D intersection with Hwy DD, and just north of the Green County line.

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

We’re going to continue the series of University Ridge workdays on Sunday, July 9.  It’s no National Trails Day, but it is apparently Nunavut Day.  We will finish clearing buckthorn and honeysuckle from a patch started on Monday, June 12, and resume working northwards near the clubhouse.
What: Clear invasive brush to improve forest health, reveal the area’s natural beauty and enhance the hiking experience.
When: Sunday, July 9, 9 AM to 2 PM.
Where: University Ridge Golf Course.  Enter through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.  See the attached map.
What to expect:
We will cut, move and pile brush & small trees.
As noted on the attached map, we will be tackling two work areas.  Depending on turnout, we expect to start a crew in each area immediately after roundup.  (Otherwise, in case of a small turnout, we’ll work as one crew to finish work area 1 and then move to work area 2.)
Parking:
Please park in the back of the parking lot near the clubhouse.  We’ll round up and distribute tools there, and then a small group (3-5 people) will depart for Work Area 1.  The remaining group will tackle Work Area 2 near the clubhouse.
** The course is open and golf season is in full swing, so be aware that many golf carts will be moving about on the paths throughout the day.
What to expect / what to wear / what to bring:
All hand tools will be provided.
– Safety glasses and disposable ear plugs will be available – if you have your own ear/eye protection, please bring them.
– Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose, as well as poison ivy and some wild parsnip in open areas.  Leather gloves are a must.
– It is tick season.  Wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin.  Tick-borne illness is no fun!
– Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.

Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  Go to https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf

Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.

If you plan to help on July 9, please contact me (see info below).  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies.  It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

We’re going to do more trail improvement on Monday, June 12 to (hopefully) complete the great work done on Saturday, June 3.
What: Clear invasive brush to improve forest health, reveal the area’s natural beauty and enhance the hiking experience.
When: Monday, June 12,  9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  June 12 is a rare opportunity to use gas chainsaws (due to noise) in this patch of woods.  We won’t have another opportunity until the course closes in late fall.    
Where:  University Ridge Golf Course.  Enter through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.  See the attached map.
PARKING:
 1. Please park in the back of the parking lot near the clubhouse, then take the short walk on the Ice Age Trail to the work area.
  or
2. Park at the Noer Turf Research Facility, 2502 S. Pleasant View Rd. (County M), Verona and walk the Ice Age Trail to the work area.  It is a short walk.
  or
3.  There will be some parking on the grass, on the north side of the dirt cart path shown on the map.  This is the left side as you pull in.  Park with all wheels in the grass–please don’t block the path.
4. It is OK to park along the main road, IF all four wheels are in the grass.
**Monday is the day after the AmFam tournament wraps up.  The course is closed to golfing.  Expect lots of trucks and heavy equipment on the road and in parking areas.
 
What to wear/what to bring: Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose.  Leather gloves are a must.  It is tick season.  Wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin.  Tick-borne illness is no fun!  Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  Go to:  https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf 
Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.
If you plan to help on June 12, please reply to this message.  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies.  It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.
Questions?  Call, email or text me.  I hope to see you on June 12!  Happy Trails

Link to details: June Trail Improvement Project map

Dane County Chapter Hike – Table Bluff Segment

Photo Credit: Black-eyed Susans in full bloom along the Table Bluff Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by Gary Hegeman.

The Hike

Come out for a hike on this showcase IAT property! The southern end of this segment was formerly owned and manged by the non-profit Swamplovers, before they donated the land to the IAT. The wetlands across from the parking lot are the result of meltwater from the Laurentide ice sheet pouring through a preglacial valley and depositing sand and gravel and partiality filling the valley floors, which now hold wetlands and a tributary stream of Black Earth creek, a Class I trout stream. The hike starts out with several switchbacks to climb to the top of the bluff, featuring dramatic rock outcroppings of Ordovician dolomite and views to the southwest to the Blue Mounds. There is a white-blazed loop trail in addition to the main IAT trail on the hilltop. After a prairie/oak savanna that is being restored to its native state, the IAT traverses nearly a mile of of woodlands of oak and hickory before descending to the valley floor. In the valley is a second white-blazed loop trail that offers a half mile ‘bubble’ to the west of the IAT. The trail continues across the valley to rise up the opposite hillside and into a wooded area. Enjoy the more than 20 years of prairie restoration efforts in the large restored prairie with a thriving population of rare pale purple coneflowers, plus shooting star, rattle-snake master, stiff gentian, hoary vervain, prairie smoke, cream gentian, and cream baptisia have all been identified here. Exiting the prairie and heading downhill, you will encounter the other end of the second white-blazed ‘bubble’ trail. The trail then begins climbing through another prairie/oak savanna before ending at the Table Bluff Road parking lot.

Event Details

Hike through the prairies and wooded areas near Table Bluff — out in the driftless area. Round trip is 4.8 miles with a couple moderate hills. There’s a couple of white loop trails in that area we can take to vary this hike a bit, so not a complete out and back. We’ll explore the restored prairies and oak savannas along the trail and hopefully have a great view overlooking the Black Earth Creek valley with Blue Mounds off in the distance. And of course be on the look out for the Swamplovers alligator!

We can also offer a one-way 2.5 mile option with shuttle back to the start.

Well behaved dogs on leash are OK to join us.

Location

Hikers will meet at the Swamplovers end of the trail on Scheele Rd. From HWY KP, turn onto Scheele Road, which has a right turn before entering Swamplovers. The parking lot is on the right.

Member Event: Weeding and Wine Stewardship Event at Mammoth’s Back Preserve (NEW LOCATION)

UPDATE: This event will be held at Mammoth’s Back Preserve, Cross Plains Segment (Dane County). 

This event is for Ice Age Trail Alliance members. To become a member, Join today.  View membership levels and benefits

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance at a special, members only Weeding and Wine event at the Alliance-owned Swamplovers Preserve! This event is a fun way to learn more about the Alliance’s Habitat Improvement program, support the native wildflowers, and increase habitat for critical pollinators.

Weeding and Wine will take place at the southern end of the Table Bluff Segment on Picnic Hill Prairie in the Swamplovers Preserve (Cross Plains/Dane County), one of the most diverse restored dry prairies in the area.

Project Description:

Invasive species are a sad reality for land conservation efforts.  They usually lack natural predators that keep them under control in their native ranges, leading to out-competition of native species which decreases high quality habitat for insects, birds, butterflies and other critters. The Picnic Hill Prairie on the Swamplovers Preserve has been well established for years but still needs regular tending to help the native species compete against invasive ones.

The work will include walking carefully through a medium tall prairie full of stunning wildflowers and ‘spot weeding’ invasive plants. We’ll discuss a few target weed species and explain how to identify them. From there, we will split into small groups to start weeding. You’ll have an expert close by to help answer any questions and help identify what stays and what gets pulled. Enjoy a social and snacks after weeding.

See map of the project area[PDF].

Schedule:

Thursday, July 20, 2023* @ 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

  • 5:30 p.m. Arrive, park at Mammoth’s Back Preserve, Cross Plains Segment (Dane County)
  • 6:00 – 6:15 p.m. Welcome – Introductions – Project Overview
  • 6:15 – 7:30 p.m. Get your hands dirty! Weeding in the prairie.
  • 7:30 – 8:00 p.m. Social and snacks*, self-led hiking, on-your-own picnic

What to Bring:

  • Gardening gloves
  • Digging tool if you have one
  • Close-toed shoes
  • Sun hat/sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Long pants, long sleeve shirt (we will be in tall grass)
  • Personal drinking water and container
  • Picnic or snacks**
  • Raingear – we will work in light rain, please check the forecast

*The rain date is Thursday, July 27.

**The Ice Age Trail Alliance will provide light refreshments and snacks (including wine). A porta potty is NOT available onsite.

We love dogs, but we ask that you not bring them to this event. Wooly mammoths are welcome.

Register today! Space is limited.

This event is FREE, but donations are appreciated!

Volunteers in Parks Information:

No experience is necessary and volunteers of all ages are welcome, provided youth attend with an adult chaperone. If you are NEW to volunteering with the Ice Age Trail Alliance, please submit the volunteer agreement before the event, see below for more details.

  • Please complete this Volunteer Agreement, OF-301A Fillable Form.
  • Please email the completed form to Dan Watson, NPS Volunteer Coordinator, (daniel_watson@nps.gov).
  • Dan will reply to you with a signed copy of the form.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Liebetrau Prairie part of Table Bluff Segment

Photo Credit: Black-eyed Susans in full bloom along the Table Bluff Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by Gary Hegeman.

The Hike

Come out for a short evening stroll on this Dane County Parks property that is part of the Table Bluff segment of the Ice Age Trail. The trail has some gentle, rolling hills and a looping portion of the trail goes through a section of woods. This 1.5-mile loop offers a grand view toward Blue Mounds (on a clear day).

Enjoy the more than 15 years of prairie restoration efforts. In spring, hikers will see shooting stars and other early prairie flowers; in summer, prairie flowers include an ever-changing explosion of compass plants, monarda, rudbeckia, coneflowers, coreopsis, milkweed, liatris and many more.

Event Details

The hike is about 1.5 miles round trip from the Pine Rd parking lot.

Location

Hikers will meet at the IATA parking lot on Pine Road Liebetrau Prairie – Table Bluff Segment

Dane County Chapter Hike – Springfield Hill Segment

Photo Credit: Brent Sieling

The Hike

Springfield Hill Segment is currently a small loop trail that can be hiked in either direction. Enjoy the extensive restoration work done if you start your hike to left, with overgrown honeysuckle, buckthorn, and walnut trees have been removed to restore native prairie. The trail ascend to the crest of a hill with a south-facing slope offering dramatic views to the south and west. Summer wildflowers include monarda, spiderwart, and coreopsuis. After descending off the ridge, the segment continues through woods before entering an oak savanna, and then crosses a wooden boardwalk before passing the remains of Frederic Hahn’s log outbuilding dating to the late 19th century.  The segment continues along a goat-prairie hillside and passes an old cattle road underpass before returning to the parking lot.

Event Details

Springfield Hill is Dane County Park location hosting a 1.6 mile loop segment of the Ice Age Trail being restored to oak savanna. Mostly full moon will rise just after 7, so should have a nice view during the hike.

Dogs on leash can join. No facilities onsite.

Location

The parking lot entrance is on Ballweg Road, about 1000 ft north of of the intersection with Hightway 12.

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

Join us on National Trails Day, Saturday, June 3, as we improve the Ice Age National Scenic Trail! We will clear thick buckthorn and honeysuckle in a beautiful, shaded glen on the Madison segment at University Ridge golf course.
What: What: Clear invasive brush to improve forest health, reveal the area’s natural beauty and enhance the hiking experience.
When: Saturday, June 3, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Where:  Enter University Ridge Golf Course through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.
Parking: See attached map.
1. Please park in the back of the parking lot near the clubhouse, then take the short walk on the Ice Age Trail to the work area.
2. Park at the Noer Turf Research Facility, 2502 S. Pleasant View Rd. (County M), Verona and walk the Ice Age Trail to the work area.  It is a short walk.
3.  There will be some parking on the grass next to the dirt cart path shown on the map.  Park with all wheels in the grass–please don’t block the path.
**Final preparations are taking place for the AmFam golf tournament to begin on June 5.  Expect plenty of activity on the road and in parking areas.
What to wear/what to bring: Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose.  Leather gloves are a must.
It is tick season.  Bring insect repellent or wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin.  Lyme disease is no fun–I know from personal experience!
Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  If you have not filed a Volunteer Service Agreement in 2023, please do so before this trail event: https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf
Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.
If you plan to help on June 3rd, please send me an email (listed below).  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies.  It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.
Questions?  Call, email or text me.  I hope to see you on May 20!  Happy Trails—

Link to details: June 3 Trail Improvement Project map

Trail Improvement, Madison Segment, Dane County

Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

You’re invited to help us continue trail improvement at University Ridge Golf Course.  If you’re not signed up for the Rib Lake MSC, here is an opportunity to do good locally.  Beds of Mayapples, carpets of wild geranium, singing orioles and rose-breasted grosbeaks…though this section has become known for its overgrown invasives, it still has much to offer.  Let’s enhance the hiker experience and improve the health of these woods!
What: Trail improvement on a wooded section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.  We will cut and treat buckthorn and honeysuckle.  We’ll build brush piles to burn next winter.
When: Saturday, May 20.  9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Where:  Enter University Ridge Golf Course through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison.
Parking: See attached map.  Park in the back of the parking lot near the cart path.
**Golfing season is in full swing, as are preparations for the AmFam Tournament in early June.  Be alert for lots of activity!
What to wear/what to bring: Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots.  There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose.  Leather gloves are a must.
It is tick season.  Bring insect repellent or wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin.  Lyme disease is no fun–I know from personal experience!
Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program:  The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form.  In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.  If you have not filed a Volunteer Service Agreement in 2023, please do so before this trail event: https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf
Courtesy:  If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand.  Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.
If you plan to help on May 20, please reply to me.  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies.  It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.
Questions?  Call, email or text me.  I hope to see you on May 20!  Happy Trails—

Link to details: University golf course map

Dane County Chapter Hike – Bird Walk, Cross Plains Hickory Hill Conservancy

Photo Credit: Emily Meier

The Hike

Event Details

Now is the season and early morning is the time to see and hear migrating and newly-arrived birds of the woodlands, savanna and prairie habitats along the loop in the highlands above Cross Plains.  Binoculars and field guide recommended.  Your leader will help to identify avian friends by both sight and sound.

Location

See map below.

Owl Walk at Indian Lake County Park & Ice Age Trail

Photo Credit: Nick Lane

Event Details

Have you ever been out at dusk to listen for owls? Now is your chance! Join Dane County Parks education staff and the Ice Age Trail Alliance to explore Indian Lake County Park and look and listen for this incredible raptor. Please ensure that you are dressed appropriately for the weather as we will be outside during the entirety of the program.

Program includes an estimated 2-mile guided walk through the park, which goes along the Ice Age Trail, and will end with a fire, roasting s’mores, and continuing our search for owls.

Please note: there is no guarantee to see or hear an owl during the walk.

The Hike

We will meet at Indian Lake County Park shelter #1 before heading onto the Ice Age Trail. This walk will be an estimated 2 miles and will go at a group set pace.

Location

The entrance for Indian Lake County Park is near the intersection of State Highway 19 and Matz Rd.  Follow the entrance road south to the parking area.

Registration

Please register in advance though Dane County Parks. $5 per person. Kids under 5 are free and do not need to register.

 

Dane County Chapter Hike – University Ridge Golf Course, Madison Segment

Photo Credit: Rachel Roberts

The Hike

The hike starts at the Ice Age Junction parking lot then goes north on the multi-use trail bridge over McKee Rd before veering off over a grassy moraine, with two interpretive signs about the presence of glaciers in the area. It then crosses the multi-use path again and parallels it heading north through a area of native grasses and wildflowers that is part of a restoration project begun by Veridian Homes. This prairie gives way to a small aspen and oak grove heading north along the west side of a large drainage basin. Once reaching and crossing Raymond Road, the trail once again leaves the multi-use trail and heads west through a small woods and then into a field with tall grasses and wildflowers before rejoining the multi-use path for 300 feet to use an underpass below Pleasant View Rd. The trail finally leaves the multi-use path for the last time before crossing a covered bridge to reach the University’s Noer Turfgrass Research Center driveway and continuing up the drive for 50 ft before turning to the southwest.  It then continues through a grassy area, a small patch of woods and then past an agricultural field to reach the UW’s Golf Course practice area. The trail then climbs a moraine with expansive views to the east and south. Continuing on, the trail crosses a golf cart path and through a small wooded area, before briefly following a golf cart path and then passing between two tee boxes. The trail bends north through a grassland area located west of a fairway to reach the golf course’s lower parking area and the clubhouse to the right.  Hikers are welcome to use the clubhouse, which features water, restrooms and a restaurant.  From the clubhouse area the trail goes north and then west, hiking through wooded areas between holes of the University Ridge golf course and crossing a golf cart path before more wooded areas to reach Woods Road.

Event Details

Join hike leader, Kathy, on a 6 mile round-trip (out and back) hike on the Ice Age Trail from Verona to University Ridge Golf Course clubhouse. For those who wish a shorter 3-mile hike ending at University Ridge Golf Course, please arrive at the starting location at 9:15 am to arrange a car shuttle. The hike starts at Ice Age Trail Junction parking lot located at Hwy PD/McKee Rd and High Point Rd. The hike will traverse north and west to University Ridge Golf Course and return back to the Hwy PD parking lot. This surprisingly remote feeling segment passes unobtrusively through a scenic golf course and residential neighborhoods.

Tick and mosquito season is upon us. It is recommended that you wear long pants and long sleeves. Please bring bug repellent (or wear clothes soaked in Permethrin). Also bring water and a snack.

Location

The parking lot entrance is on the south side of the intersection of HWY PD and High Point Rd.  Continue past the two metal sheds to the parking area.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Halfway Prairie, Indian Lake Segment

Photo Credit: Nick Lane

The Hike

Evening hike on a newer portion of the Ice Age Trail. The Trail now extends north from Indian Lake County Park on north side of Hwy 19 in the Halfway Prairie Wildlife Area.

Event Details

We’ll start in Indian Lake Park by the shelter, but then head north along the Trail, cross Hwy 19, check out the Matz farmstead ruins (built in 1907 and burned in 1948), and hike to where the segment ends. We’ll then loop around on some of the other trails on the property to return. About 3.5 miles total.

Tick and mosquito season is upon us. It is recommended that you wear long pants and long sleeves. Please bring bug repellent (or wear clothes soaked in Permethrin). Also bring water and a snack.

Location

The entrance for Indian Lake County Park is near the intersection of State Highway 19 and Matz Rd.  Follow the entrance road south to the parking area.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Springfield Hill Segment

Photo Credit: Brent Sieling

The Hike

Springfield Hill Segment is currently a small loop trail that can be hiked in either direction. Enjoy the extensive restoration work done if you start your hike to left, with overgrown honeysuckle, buckthorn, and walnut trees have been removed to restore native prairie. The trail ascend to the crest of a hill with a south-facing slope offering dramatic views to the south and west. Summer wildflowers include monarda, spiderwart, and coreopsuis. After descending off the ridge, the segment continues through woods before entering an oak savanna, and then crosses a wooden boardwalk before passing the remains of Frederic Hahn’s log outbuilding dating to the late 19th century.  The segment continues along a goat-prairie hillside and passes an old cattle road underpass before returning to the parking lot.

Event Details

Springfield Hill is Dane County Park location hosting a 1.6 mile loop segment of the Ice Age Trail being restored to oak savanna. Mostly full moon will rise just after 7, so should have a nice view during the hike.

Dogs on leash can join. No facilities onsite.

Location

The parking lot entrance is on Ballweg Road, about 1000 ft north of of the intersection with Hightway 12.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Verona Segment

Photo Credit: David Lonsdorf

The Hike

The hike starts at the Ice Age Junction parking lot and joins the Ice Age Trail to go south through a ~200-acre restored prairie. This is named the Ice Age Trail Junction Area and is managed by the Dane County Parks Department and provides a visual and physical separation between the cities of Verona and Madison. The Ice Age Trail shares this area with a paved multi-use trail. The trail continues south with some outstanding views through a wooded area and follows to the left at a fork. The segment heads further south and reaches a short spur trail near a maintenance shed that leads west to picnic tables and a kiosk display explaining the prairie restoration program and Upper Sugar River Valley. Several mowed paths will intersect the Trail near the Reddan Soccer Park; continue to follow the Trail straight toward Cross County Road. The Trail turns west and crosses Cross County Road at a marked pedestrian crossing. The Trail enters Badger Prairie County Park and continues southward across a ridge. Hikers will pass through a Dispersed Camping Area and shortly reach the turn-around point at the park’s main shelter.

Event Details

Join hike leader, Rich, on a 4-mile round-trip (out and back) evening hike on the Ice Age Trail on the Verona Segment. The hike starts at Ice Age Trail Junction parking lot located at Hwy PD/McKee Rd and High Point Rd. This is a family-friendly out and back casual hike with some rolling hills. The hike will traverse south to the Badger Prairie County Park main shelter and return back to the Hwy PD parking lot. The segment passes through a combination of prairie and wooded areas.

Tick and mosquito season is upon us. It is recommended that you wear long pants and long sleeves. Please bring bug repellent (or wear clothes soaked in Permethrin). Also bring water and a snack. We should be done by sunset, but just in case, you might want to bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Location

We’ll meet at the parking lot with its entrance on the south side of the intersection of HWY PD and High Point Rd. The intersection has a stoplight and is about 1 mile east of Hwy M. You can find it on Google Maps by searching for “Ice Age Trail Junction Area.” Continue past the two metal sheds to the parking area.

Dane County Chapter Hike – Liebetrau Prairie part of Table Bluff Segment

Photo Credit: Black-eyed Susans in full bloom along the Table Bluff Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by Gary Hegeman.

The Hike

Come out for a short evening stroll on this Dane County Parks property that is part of the Table Bluff segment of the Ice Age Trail. The trail has some gentle, rolling hills and a looping portion of the trail goes through a section of woods. This 1.5-mile loop offers a grand view toward Blue Mounds (on a clear day).

Enjoy the more than 15 years of prairie restoration efforts. In spring, hikers will see shooting stars and other early prairie flowers; in summer, prairie flowers include an ever-changing explosion of compass plants, monarda, rudbeckia, coneflowers, coreopsis, milkweed, liatris and many more.

Event Details

The hike is about 1.5 miles round trip from the Pine Rd parking lot.

Location

Hikers will meet at the IATA parking lot on Pine Road Liebetrau Prairie – Table Bluff Segment