Clover Valley Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

The Clover Valley Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT)  runs 1.6 miles (2.6 km) through the Clover Valley State Wildlife Area near Whitewater, Wiscosin in Walworth County. After several good snowfalls followed by a good bit of rain and temperatures above freezing, a glorious sunny day appeared. With the sun came an opportunity to step through icy water and melting snow.





After completing the connecting route from the Storrs Lake Segment to this segment of the IAT, it felt good to be back on a short stretch of trail. Given the wet conditions, I wore Neos Trekkers over my waterproof trail runners. Normally I use these to prevent cold, wet feet when portaging during cool weather on canoe trips. These lightweight overshoes along with hiking poles certainly came in handy on this hike. 

Wearing Neos Trekkers overshoes over trail runners.

This short segment of the IAT meanders through a relatively flat area and appears as if it would normally be about as easy and unchallenging as trails get. Given the areas of deep snow covering slushy melt to slog through, along with patches of standing water over the ankles, trekking poles and some very good waterproof footwear saved the day.
 

Officially completed my walk across Rock County!

Clover Valley Segment of the IAT.

Aside from the trail conditions, the unusual spike in temperatures made for a pleasant day to be outdoors. Plenty of birds and squirrels appeared at every turn. The sun on my back felt like a little slice of heaven.
 

Map of the Clover Valley Segment of the IAT

That's all for now. Get outdoors - and keep our wild places wild!

Total Distance Covered -  3.2 miles (5.1 km) total, 1.6 miles (2.6 km) one way.

Difficulty - This looks to be an easy trail, but on this hike it was of moderate difficulty due to deep standing water filled with icy melting snow.

Trail Conditions - A 46 °F (8C), sunny day along a well-marked and easy to follow trail.

Highlights -  Warm, sunny weather and gorgeous blue skies. 

Total Ice Age Trail Miles to Date - Total official trail distance completed  225 miles (359 km).

Amenities - No amenities. 

Location - Parking at the IAT parking area on Island Road.