Hiking the Mecan River Segment of the Ice Age Trail

What gets you up and out early on a cold, gray January morning? I heard great eagle photo opportunities awaited in the Mecan Springs Area along the Mecan River Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). So, on a cold, gray morning I headed northwest on the Mecan River of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT) from the DNR parking area on Wisconsin Highway 21 as light snow fell. After a brief time on the trail, I headed north on 9th avenue for about 0.4 miles, then rejoined the IAT. 

After passing through a pine grove the trail entered areas of prairie and forest, the highlight being a viewing bench on the Mecan River. The trail recrossed 9th Avenue at another DNR parking area. After a short time hiking, I encountered the Wisconsin Operating Engineer Training grounds which is a private property area and the hiker is advised to stay on trail. Also, please note the area is signed as closed to hikers during the deer gun hunting season. This area is located between County Road GG and the DNR parking area on 9th Avenue.

The Mecan River.

Along the Mecan River Segment of the IAT

Yellow blaze through a pine plantation.

As I hiked the Mecan River Segment of the IAT, I enjoyed many beautiful views of Wisconsin in the snow. Great photo opportunities presented themselves. But would I get a good photograph of an eagle?

Picturesque farm view from the IAT.

Leaning oaks along the Mecan River Segment of the IAT

Signage warning of private land and deer hunting closure

Mobile Skills Crew project marker at the County Road GG crossing

After crossing County Road GG, I soon entered the Mecan Springs area. Eagles, often seen in this area, perch in the trees that over look the springs below the IAT. I scared up an eagle which quickly flew away, a distant blur by the time I figured out where it went. As I watched it go beyond the trees I wondered which tree it had been sitting in. 

Video of me fumbling to photograph the second eagle.

I looked up, and there perched above my head was another eagle. My golden opportunity! I would get my photograph after all. As I fumbled to get my camera focused, steady and ready the second eagle flew away. Truly one of those "I wish I had my camera ready" moments. 

Drawing near the overlook of the springs.

The Mecan Springs on a gray winter's day.

As I hiked through the Mecan Springs Area, the views of the Mecan Springs rewarded my efforts hiking in the snow and ice. But I would not be rewarded with a good eagle photograph. I had scared them off. The best opportunities seem to be earned by sitting patiently in a blind and waiting hours for the perfect composition. I have not developed the patience for this. I like to hike. Move on, move on.

Stopped for a snack in the snow at the bench overlooking the Mecan Springs. 

If you are in the area, I definitely recommend a stop at Mecan Springs to give your legs a stretch on the IAT. There's a good chance you'll see bald eagles. Leaving the Mecan Springs area, I crossed Chicago Road and headed across a large, hilly field and saw a turkey. I am quite surprised I didn't see deer, but I did see plenty of deer stands.

Headed toward the expansive field.

Follow the yellow blazes - hiking the IAT!

Erratic near the end of my hike.

After crossing the expansive field, I re-entered the wooded area and came to a large wooden bench at the spur trailhead of the dispersed camping area (DCA). Multi-day hikers are welcome to hike in the DCA at no cost. The DCAs are flattish, but lumpy and you will have to go for a hike and dig a hole if a bathroom is what you need. Maximum occupancy at a DCA is 6 people, and if you bring 6, it will be tight. Do not expect a fire ring. Beyond the DCA, I cut through a pine plantation and up a snow covered dirt road to the trail head parking on Buttercup Drive.

Map

I didn't get what I came for, but I got more than I expected. I enjoyed the hike and all the beautiful views along the way. And I did get to see an eagle, I just didn't take a photograph of an eagle. I promised myself to return soon and take another stab at photographing a bald eagle. That's all for now. Let's get outdoors and keep our wild places wild.

Total Distance Covered -  The Mecan River Segment one way is 6.6 miles (10.6 km), 13.2 miles (21.2 km) out and back. 

Difficulty - Moderate for this time of year due to the ice and snow on the gently rolling hilly spots.

Trail Conditions - The trail is well-blazed and highly used. Some patches were very icy and slippery, 18°F (-8°C).

Highlights -  Snow and eagles! Views of the Mecan River.

Total Ice Age Trail Miles to Date - Total official trail distance completed to date - 406 miles (649 km).

Amenities - DNR parking along along Highway 21 and 9th Avenue. The Highway 21 parking area is about 4 miles from Coloma. Coloma offers restaurants (Subway and A&W), lodging, and gas stations.

Location - Parked in the DNR parking area on Wisconsin Highway 21.