Ice Age Trail – Waupaca River Segment

The Waupaca River Segment of the Ice Age Trail is a scenic segment that is perfect for a trail run. It is a great combination of hills and scenic river views. It definitely will keep you wanting to explore more sections of the trail.

Location

The Waupaca River Segment of the Ice Age Trail is located in central Wisconsin. Located just outside of Waupaca, Wisconsin. Because Waupaca is located within the scenic Chain O’ Lakes, it is a popular Wisconsin tourist destination. The lakes were created by the Cary Glacier. In short the segment would make a perfect addition to a trip, if you are in the area on vacation.

The day I ran the trail, I also ran Skunk and Foster Lakes Segment. The trail is in between the Hartman Creek Segment and Skunk and Foster Lakes Segment. Because it is conveniently located about an hour and half from my home, I definitely plan to return to this section.

The Trail

The Waupaca River Segment is 4.9 miles long. It is part trail and part connecting route. The trail portion is 2.2 miles and the connector route is 2.7 miles long.

I ran the trail with a friend and we parked a car at each end of the trail. I am so lucky to be able to run the trail with someone. Both of us love the Ice Age Trail, so it’s a win win. We started the trail at the connector route off highway 10. Use caution when crossing the four lane highway. From there you will head into a trail portion, located on the west side of the road off Foley Drive.

As you begin the trail, it climbs upward. The unique terrain is mostly pitted outwash, as a result of glacial retreat. After a short climb, you will come upon a cabin. The cabin was built by the Wisconsin Conservation Corps and is open to anyone for an overnight stay. The trail continues along steep slopes through beautiful hardwoods mixed with pines. We ran this section in early spring and it even snowed that day. There is nothing better that the fresh smell of pine on a crisp spring day.

As you descend, you will come upon the Waupaca River where the trail becomes flatter, but still has plenty of tree roots and stunning river views. As you emerge from the trail, you will cross the river to take the next connector route down two miles to the next trail section. The road was hilly, but perfect for when you are training for a 50k like me.

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Once you have completed the road section, you will follow a short trail section. The trail will follow along the edge of a field. The trail ends at a parking lot on state highway 54.

In Conclusion

This is a great segment for those who like road and trail, as it is a mix of both. The road section had nice rolling hills, therefore it kept things challenging. Above all, I enjoyed the steep climbs and the smell of the pines. The location is perfect, because it is located near Hartman Creek State Park and a great town with plenty to do. I plan to return again!