e sse nt i al community
Brooklyn Wildlife Segment
ICE AGE National Scenic Trail
by Melissa Pierick
Six Segments
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail courses 1,200 miles throughout Wisconsin, roughly following the path where the last glacier ended. Along the way, it takes hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and walkers through some of the most scenic areas in the state, including spots right here in Dane County.
Brooklyn Wildlife Segment
East of Belleville in the Brooklyn State Wildlife Area. Trailhead and parking lots on Highway DD and Hughes Road. This pleasant 3.3-mile hike offers a little bit of everything: woodlands (including a small pine grove), prairie, marsh overlooks, and a nice boardwalk. It’s a great place for 18 | m a d i s o n e s s e n t i a l s
birdwatching. In fact, don’t be surprised if a pheasant crosses your path.
University Ridge Portion of Madison Segment
Parking available at Noer Turfgrass Research Center on Highway M or off-road parking on Woods Road. Did you know a National Scenic Trail runs directly through University Ridge Golf Course? For two miles, the Ice Age Trail takes you through wooded areas of the course. During late spring and early summer, wild geraniums are in full bloom and blanket the woods, making it magical. Except for when you pass by a cart path and the clubhouse, you’ll barely notice you’re on the golf course. It’s a lovely hike any time of day,
