The Ice Age Trail is a 1,200-mile-long hiking route that winds through Wisconsin, showcasing the dramatic landscape shaped by the last Ice Age. The trail traverses glacial features such as moraines, eskers, and kettle lakes, offering a glimpse into the state's geological history. It stretches from the western to the eastern side of Wisconsin, providing both casual walkers and seasoned hikers with opportunities to experience diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and stunning natural beauty. The Ice Age Trail is part of the National Trails System and is a unique way to explore the legacy of glacial activity in North America.
The Village of Slinger is one of many Ice Age trail communities. These communities are designed as a symbiotic relationship between the Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) and communities near the Trail which enhances awareness of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IANST) and improves the quality of life in communities throughout Wisconsin. Slinger is situated in the beautiful Kettle Moraine geography, an area filled with pot-shaped depressions, or kettles, formed when large blocks of buried ice melted after the glacial lobes receded.
There are 4 segments that are included in Slinger Community where you can go walking and hiking.
- Slinger Segment (2.1 miles) – The scenic trail corridor passes through Slinger’s Community Park and continues north along wetlands adjacent to Little Switzerland Ski Area. This segment is a short distance to connect to the Cedar Lakes Segment.
- Cedar Lakes Segment (2.8 miles) – Just north of Slinger, this segment features the Polk Kames, which are the second largest cluster of kames in the state.
- Pike Lake Segment (3.3 miles) – The segment, to the south of Slinger, passes through the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Pike Lake Unit.
- Holy Hill Segment (6.9 miles) – This segment showcases the Holy Hill kame, hilly terrain, and deep kettles. At the top of the glacial kames sits the iconic Holy Hill Basilica.
Near Slinger, the Ice Age Trail offers particularly scenic views, with each season transforming the landscape in unique ways—from lush green summers to the vibrant colors of fall and the serene beauty of snow-covered winter trails. We hope you enjoy this beautiful area! After your hike, take time to stop by one of our local businesses to fuel up and relax.
*Unless otherwise noted, dogs are allowed on the Ice Age Trail and should be under control and leashed at all times.
Check out these links for maps and more information.
Slinger Ice Age Trail Community Itinerary and Map