Monches Segment of the Ice Age Trail

On a hot, muggy morning I set off the hike the Monches Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). I found it strange that although it is officially autumn now, temperatures are warmer than most of this year's  summer temperatures. I set off from Highway Q at the Carl Shurz Memorial.

Boundary Waters 2017: Meeds Lake Entry Point 48 to Campsites on Meeds Lake, Omega Lake, Gaskin Lake and Vista Lake

On our 2017 trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) our family entered the BWCA at Entry Point #48, Meeds Lake. We spent 8 nights camped on Meeds, Omega, Gaskin and Vista Lakes before exiting at Entry Point #47, Lizz Lake. We stuck our feet into mud holes and slipped and fell on slick rocks and roots. We paddled against 30 mph gusts, sunned ourselves on slabs of bedrock, swam in pristine waters, and marveled at the wonders of nature. We grew closer to one another as we worked as a team to travel, set camp, and overcome the challenges of life away from modern conveniences.

Merton Segment of the Ice Age Trail

On a cool foggy morning, I set off on the Merton Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). From Centennial Park in Hartland, I hiked east on County Road K, then headed north on Dorn Road. The approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 km) of road walk along the 5.3 mile (8.5 km) Merton Segment contains areas with tight shoulders and traffic that moves at a pretty good clip, making the road walking portion of this hike less than pleasant. If you do decide to hike this, wear bright colors and take extra care.

Hartland Segment of the Ice Age Trail

With the canoe tripping and summer camping trips behind us, I dusted off my hiking poles and headed to the Hartland Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). I parked mid-segment at Nixon Park in Hartland, Wisconsin and headed south. I followed the IAT's yellow blazes south along Maple Avenue (Highway E), and then followed the IAT into the Hartland Ice Age Marsh. The chill in the air felt good. Golds and reds painted a leaf here, another there. Berries replaced flowers. A flock of geese passed overhead.