Permitted Uses

The Ice Age NST is intended to be primarily a hiking trail. The Appalachian NST generally serves as a model or pattern for the concept of a national scenic trail. The Appalachian Trail's strong image as a footpath through primarily wooded areas sets a tone for others - the simple footpath and outstanding scenery are considered unifying elements. All segments of the Ice Age NST are open for travel by foot for walking, hiking, and backpacking. Other non-motorized activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted in most locations. Some isolated segments permit bicycle, horse, and snowmobile use, but these uses are generally accommodated on rail-trail segments, other short sections of hardened surface, or on those segments that are parts of previously established multiple-use trails that have been incorporated into the Ice Age NST route.

Camping:

Facilities for camping along the Ice Age NST vary greatly. Some managing authorities permit camping anywhere along the trail. Others permit camping only at designated sites. In some cases, the trail may already be open to use but designated camping sites have not yet been established. Along such segments it may be difficult to find any place to camp legally. Users are urged to plan their trip in advance to assure themselves proper overnight accommodations. Patience is needed while the trail is being developed. Above all, avoid trespassing and violating private property rights.

Interpretation/Education:

Major interpretive centers explaining the glacial history and geology of Wisconsin are located along the trail in the Northern Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, Interstate State Park, and Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area.

Hunting:

Many public and private land through which the Ice Age NST passes are legally open to hunting during the proper seasons. It is not intended that passage of the trail through these lands should in any way lead to their closure to hunting. Similarly, passage of the trail through lands closed to hunting does not open them in any way to hunting. In general, the trail will remain open to use during hunting seasons. However, some segments of the trail may be closed to use during some hunting seasons by the managing authorities responsible for those segments. Trail users should check in advance with the managing authority regarding use of specific segments during hunting seasons. Trail users are encouraged to wear "hunter's orange" while using segments open to hunting.

Fishing:

A Wisconsin fishing license is required for fishing in lakes and streams along the trail.