Shelter

The Lake of the Dalles, Eagle Peak, Skyline and Ice Age Loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and geological wonder within Interstate State Park. You'll wander past the serene Lake O' The Dalles, climb to viewpoints on Eagle Peak, and find moments of quiet solitude on the Skyline Trail, often surrounded by vibrant green foliage. The trail also guides you through sections of the renowned Ice Age National Scenic Trail, where you can witness unique glacial features like potholes and eskers, making for a truly engaging experience.

This easy 4.2-mile (6.8 km) hike, with a modest 436 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking a rewarding outdoor experience without a strenuous climb. Parking is available within Interstate State Park; arriving earlier in the day is often best to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

What makes this loop particularly special is its connection to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, showcasing the dramatic impact of ancient glaciers on the Wisconsin landscape. This trail is a fantastic way to explore diverse ecosystems, from forested valleys to unique geological formations, offering a comprehensive overview of the park's natural heritage and making it one of the popular trails in the area.

Embark on the Ice Age Trail: St. Croix Falls to Gandy Dancer, a diverse route that transitions from rugged glacial terrain to a smooth rail-trail. You'll start with challenging hill climbs and rock hops through the scenic St. Croix Falls Segment, featuring dramatic bluffs and the Dalles of the St. Croix River gorge. Later, the trail flattens out onto the Gandy Dancer State Trail, offering shaded, easy-on-the-legs walking through tree-lined corridors and open meadows. This 30.0-mile (48.3 km) hike, with 1417 feet (432 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult and typically takes around 12 hours and 40 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires a Wisconsin State Park Pass for the initial sections and a State Trail Pass if you plan to bike any part of the Gandy Dancer. Parking is available in St. Croix Falls, but an early start is recommended for this long point-to-point journey. The trail connects several small towns, providing opportunities for refreshments, but always carry sufficient water and supplies for the full duration of your hike.

This route offers a unique blend of Wisconsin's natural beauty and historical infrastructure. You'll experience the geological wonders of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail's western terminus, including unique formations like the Pothole Trail within Interstate State Park. The Gandy Dancer State Trail, a former railway, provides a glimpse into the region's past, named after the workers who built and maintained the tracks, making it a fascinating journey through both natural and human history.

This moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) loop, taking approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes with 549 feet (167 metres) of elevation gain, offers a fascinating journey through ancient landscapes. You'll traverse the rugged Echo Canyon, an extinct riverbed with steep, rocky talus slopes and dense forest, before transitioning to the easy, level paths around Lake O' The Dalles. The scenery shifts from dramatic basalt gorges and ancient sandstone bluffs to pleasant lake views, providing a diverse experience for hikers.

When planning your visit, be sure to wear good hiking shoes, as the Echo Canyon Trail features uneven terrain, numerous stone stairs, and rocky surfaces that can be challenging. The trail is easily accessible from Interstate Park, a popular destination for those exploring the St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls area. While some sections are paved, the overall loop requires attention to foot placement.

Interstate Park is renowned for its globally significant geology, including hundreds of unique glacial potholes carved by swirling meltwaters. This park also marks the western terminus of the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail, making it a prime spot to experience the region's glacial history. You'll also enjoy views of the impressive St. Croix River gorge, which forms the natural border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.