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Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park adventures

Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park Adventures

Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park in Wisconsin offers visitors a chance to explore glacial landforms shaped during the last Ice Age, with extensive hiking trails and diverse ecological habitats.

2400
Acres Protected
10+
Miles of Trails
50,000 (approximate)
Annual Visitors
1971
Year Established

About Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park

 

Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park, located in northwestern Wisconsin, showcases the dramatic landscape formations left behind by glaciers during the Wisconsin glaciation period. Spanning over 2,400 acres, this park is recognized for its rolling hills, kettles, moraines, eskers, and other unique glacial features. The park’s topography includes a mixture of hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and open meadows, providing habitat to a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous songbirds. The park's geological significance lies in its well-preserved examples of glacial landforms, making it a favored destination for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the park, offering more than 10 miles of hiking opportunities that traverse diverse terrain. Visitors can explore the park’s interpretive exhibits, which educate about the Ice Age and its impact on the region’s landscape. Camping is available within the park’s rustic campgrounds, ideal for visitors who want to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the outdoors. Fishing, bird watching, and cross-country skiing are also popular activities depending on the season. The park’s remote location contributes to a peaceful wilderness experience with well-marked trails accessible from multiple trailheads. Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Park remains a valuable protected area that preserves glacial heritage, supports native flora and fauna, and offers a range of outdoor recreation options for all skill levels.

Highlights

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Distinctive glacial features including kettles, moraines, and eskers

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Crossing of the nationally designated Ice Age National Scenic Trail

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Diverse mixed forest ecosystem supporting abundant wildlife

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Rustic campgrounds offering quiet, natural overnight stays

Notable Natural Features

Ice Age National Scenic Trail Segment

A significant portion of this famous trail traverses the park, allowing hikers to experience landmark glacial topography.

Kettle Lakes

Small, deep lakes formed by melting ice chunks provide scenic spots and biologically rich aquatic environments.

Interpretive Exhibits

Educational displays and signage interpret the geology and natural history of the Ice Age for visitors.