Ice Age Trail – Emmons Creek Segment

Location

The Emmons Creek Segment of the Ice Age Trail is located in central Wisconsin. Located in Portage County, the 2nd Avenue parking lot is about 8 miles from Waupaca, Wisconsin. Waupaca is located in the beautiful Chain O’ Lakes. The lakes were created by the receding Cary Glacier. The Emmons Creek Segment would be perfect for a short hike or run, when traveling to the area.

The Ice Age Trail is a trail that has trail sections and connector routes. This segment is in-between the Deerfield Segment and Hartman Creek Segment. The day I ran the segment, I also ran the Hartman Creek Segment. The two segments are connected with no connector routes. My goal is to eventually run all of the Ice Age Trail breaking it up into sections. As a trail runner, I prefer to just run the trail sections. Once I have a bit more time, I will add in the connector routes. I haven’t run a section that I wouldn’t run again, so adding in connectors will be no problem!

The Trail

The segment is only 2.6 miles long making it perfect for an out and back. You could also add in another segment in such as the Hartman Creek Segment, which is another segment I would highly recommend.

I ran the segment in December. In Wisconsin, the weather can change quickly. I want to try to get in as much trail time as possible, before the trails are snow covered. Luckily I ran it when I did, as the next day we got snow. I love fall trail running, so it was nice to get this in before winter sets in.

The Emmons Creek Segment starts out hilly, heading out from the 2nd Avenue parking lot be prepared for a climb. I enjoy running hills, so this was right up my alley. Running this segment in late fall you will be able to see the valleys below, as the leaves have fallen. This does leave some dramatic views of the forest.

The trail passes through a low area with boardwalk. This area was dry when I ran through here. During spring I would think it would be wet in this section, so I would recommend to get a trail update prior. I belong to the Ice Age Trail Facebook group. This is a great place to ask for trail advice prior to heading out.

After the area with the boardwalks, I crossed over this beautiful footbridge. The footbridge crosses Emmons Creek. Emmons Creek is part of the Emmons Creek State Fishery. It is a beautiful creek even in fall.

After the crossing the creek, you will be heading north. The trail leads into a beautiful meadow. Every section of this trail is unique, whether it’s a stunning meadow or a forested hill climb.

After the meadow, I headed down the trail into the woods again. Throughout this section, you will find several benches to sit and rest if needed. Finishing out the segment, I ran through some oak trees along the ridge.

Final Thoughts

Emmons Creek Segment of the Ice Age Trail is a gorgeous segment that I am sure I will go back to again. I like that the section is the perfect mix of hills, tree roots and a lovely little creek. Even at the end of fall, when all the leaves have fallen it is still very scenic and will leave you wanting to return again and again.