Places to Explore / Ice Age Trail
Fresh green woodland, yellow Wood Betony, and small wildlife discoveries along Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail.
Into the Northern Kettle Moraine
This small collection follows the wooded side of the Milwaukee River Segment: quiet paths, a yellow blaze on a trail post, and sunlight filtering through new leaves. Wood Betony blooms close to the forest floor, while a tanager and a Black Swallowtail add color among the branches and foliage.
Near the Milwaukee River in northern Washington County, the Ice Age Trail enters the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The region’s ridges trace the meeting of two great glacier lobes, which left rock and soil behind as the ice reshaped the landscape.
These photographs show the portion I explored, rather than the full segment. The photographed trail map identifies the Washington County stretch; the Milwaukee River name also appears on the adjoining portion in Fond du Lac County.
From my photo collection
Eight photographs from the woodland paths and the plants and wildlife beside them. Select any photograph to open the slideshow.
Plan your own walk
Find the Milwaukee River Segment near Kewaskum on the interactive trail map, then choose the parking area and walking distance that suit your plans. The map photograph in this gallery records a past visit; consult the current map for your route.
Allow time for the small details as well as the walk itself. Flowers can be low among the leaf litter, and a bird or butterfly may be partly hidden by foliage. Check the Alliance’s trail information and Wisconsin DNR’s Northern Unit notices before visiting.
Sources & planning: Ice Age Trail Alliance — Washington/Ozaukee County route and geology · Ice Age Trail Alliance — adjoining Fond du Lac County portion · Wisconsin DNR — Northern Unit visitor information.
Photographs by Brian Woolman / Where’s Wildlife.