Milwaukee River Segment of the Ice Age Trail - Part 1, Washington County

On a stiff January morning at the end of a week of below zero temperatures, I hiked the Milwaukee River Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT) in Washington County, Wisconsin. The cloudy morning parted and gave way to sun and blue skies, and the thermometer crept above zero long enough to show me the difference between -3˚F (-19˚C) F and +5˚F (-15˚C)  which are, surprisingly, worlds apart. 





Snow squeaked and crunched underfoot. From this segment I enjoyed views of the Sunburst Ski Area, expansive farmlands, and forested glacial terrain. Just off this segment resides Northern Kettle Moraine Shelter #1 shown below. Despite the cold, I ran into 5 or 6 other parties on this hike. This stretch of trail appears well-traversed, well-maintained, and well-blazed.

The trail heads through some farmland in the southern portion of the segment

The trail is easy to find in the snow

Pump near Shelter #1

Here comes the sun!

Saw alot of trees and signs peppered with bullet holes - a nice friendly welcome...not!

Northern Kettle Moraine Shelter #1

Map of the Milwaukee River Segment through Washington County

I can't think of a better way to kick off a new year, clear the mind, and embrace the unfolding of another year of life. If you haven't taken a hike this year, why not step outside and kick about in the snow a bit? Be sure to bring warm layers and wear safe footwear for the season, trekking poles and microspikes can help when it's icy. 

When I completed the segment I turned back and repeated the hike in reverse. That's all for now, let's get outdoors and keep our wild places wild!

Total Distance Covered -  The portion of the Milwaukee River Segment that runs through Washington County is 6.8 miles (10.9 km) one way, 13.6 miles (21.9 km) out and back. 

Difficulty - Moderate - beautiful rolling glacial hills.

Trail Conditions - The trail is well-blazed and highly used. Ran into a number of hikers a on the trail, -3°F (-19°C).

Highlights -  Snow! The rolling hills, kames, eskers, and kettle lakes. 

Total Ice Age Trail Miles to Date - Total official trail distance completed to date - 344 miles (550 km).

Amenities - Parking along East Moraine Drive in Kewaskum, State Highway 28 in Kewaskum, and County Highway H in Kewaskum.

Location - Parked in the Ice Age Trail Moraine Drive Parking Area.