The Ice Age Trail Is A Challenging Hike In Wisconsin That Will Make Your Stomach Drop

It may be over 1,000 miles long, but the most scenic section of the Ice Age Trail is a 10.8-mile section that runs through Devil’s Lake in Wisconsin. If the name "Devil’s Lake" isn’t enticing enough, know that the Ice Age Trail is one of eight National Scenic Trails in the United States, marking it as one of the most breathtaking hikes in the country.

The trail follows land formations created during the Ice Age, including canyons, sheer cliff faces, and waterfalls. Hikers will climb through forests and around lakes during this exciting segment, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

The bluffs on either end of the lake are popular spots for people to hike, take photos, and sightsee. The high vantage points guarantee beautiful views of the lake, as well as challenging hiking to reach the top.

Everything spotted on the trail is incredibly historical, with 1.6-billion-year-old quartzite and 16,000-year-old rock deposited by glaciers.

For more experienced hikers, the trail has two level 4 rated mountaineering climbs. The steepest part is the Balanced Rock Trail, which is peppered with boulders and crowds.

Although the Midwest doesn’t conjure up images of mountains and cliffsides, there’s some great hiking to be found in Wisconsin. Not only is the Ice Age Trail challenging, it hosts amazing views and showcases the Earth’s history in the most natural way possible: through hands-on activity.

The next time you find yourself in America’s Dairyland, stop in Baraboo and check out the trails along Devil’s Lake State Park, located at S 5975 Park Road.