LACE UP YOUR HIKING BOOTS. Enjoy the changing seasons while traversing the Ice Age Trail, and win some goods while you're at it. (Photo via Go Chippewa County)

Will you accept the challenge? From now through the end of October, the Ice Age Trail Alliance is encouraging folks to get outside and explore the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Hit the 44-mile mark and visit at least three Ice Age Trail Communities to complete the 2024 Mammoth Hike Challenge.

Take on the Mammoth Hike Challenge as a team, family, or solo, traveling through or near any number of Wisconsin communities home to portions of the Ice Age Trail. There are more than 20 official “Ice Age Trail Communities,” highlighted as hiker destinations because of historical landmarks found near or in them, their love for the trail and hikers, etc., across the 1,200-mile trail.

The trail passes through 30 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties, including northern Chippewa County, home of the Chippewa Moraine Segment.

This year's limited edition patch. (Designed by Zarda Design)

Registering for the challenge online is free, and it will earn you invitations to challenge events and offer ways to earn “bonus miles” and get the most out of your hiking experience. Once you complete the challenge and submit your miles online, you can earn up to two limited-edition patches and a certificate.

 

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail was officially declared a national park last December, the formal designation opening up avenues for federal funding opportunities. The trail traverses some of Wisconsin’s best scenery, beginning near St. Croix Falls and winding east, south, and then north to end in Sturgeon Bay.

Register for and learn more about the 2024 Mammoth Hike Challenge online • View an interactive map of the trail on the Ice Age Trail Communities website