Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment
Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment
5.0
(7609)
10,473
hikers
00:52
3.26km
10m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment, a pleasant route that winds through the Robert O'Cook Memorial Arboretum in Janesville, Wisconsin. This 2.0-mile (3.3 km) path offers a gentle experience with only 48 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 51 minutes to complete. You'll find yourself immersed in a wooded area featuring hardwood deciduous trees and a small grove of cedars, creating a serene atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the distinctive archway marking the Jolyn Beeman Memorial Trail near the beginning, a clear landmark along your journey. The trail blends natural beauty with semi-urban touches, providing a refreshing escape. An interpretive woodland footpath also leads down to a picnic area on Marsh Creek, perfect for a short break.
This easy route is suitable for most hikers and even trail runners looking for a quick outdoor activity. The path itself varies, transitioning from a singletrack footpath to sections of doubletrack, gravel road, and even asphalt, all exclusively for walking. Parking is generally available, making access straightforward for visitors arriving by car. The trail's convenient location close to the city means you can easily fit this outdoor escape into your day, yet it still offers a welcome sense of removal from urban bustle.
The Ice Age Trail is a National Scenic Trail that traces the path of Wisconsin's last glacier, making this segment a small but significant part of a much larger geological story. This particular section highlights the unique landscape left behind by glacial movements, offering a glimpse into the region's natural history. It's an excellent way to connect with the ancient forces that shaped this land, providing both recreation and a touch of educational insight into the state's past.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.26 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.26 km
Surfaces
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Monday 6 July
28°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
The Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment is approximately 2.1 miles (3.4 km) long. Most hikers can complete it in about 50-60 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.
The Arbor Ridge Segment features a varied terrain, including mostly singletrack footpath, but also sections of doubletrack, gravel road, and asphalt. It winds through the Robert O'Cook Memorial Arboretum with gently rolling hills. All paths are designated for walking only.
Yes, this segment is generally considered easy to moderate and very mild, making it suitable for most individuals, including beginners and families. While there's one specific hill that might get your heart rate up, significant climbs are not a major feature. It's also popular with trail runners.
You can access the trail from multiple points. Starting from the southwest trailhead offers a predominantly downhill path. Alternatively, you can begin from Riverside Park, though hiking it as an out-and-back from there involves a gradual, long climb.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Ice Age Trail, including the Arbor Ridge Segment. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Robert O'Cook Memorial Arboretum or the Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment that passes through it. It is open to the public for enjoyment.
The Arbor Ridge Segment offers beauty in all seasons. Early spring is great for seeing ephemerals on the forest floor, while wildflowers color the ground throughout the warmer months. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. The trail is accessible year-round, but conditions may vary with snow or ice in winter.
The trail takes you through the scenic Robert O'Cook Memorial Arboretum. You'll pass an archway marking the Jolyn Beeman Memorial Trail near the start, and a reconstructed vintage log cabin after a short paved section. The route also winds down to a picnic area on Marsh Creek.
Yes, the Ice Age Trail: Arbor Ridge Segment is part of the larger Ice Age Trail system. It directly connects to the IAT - Devil's Staircase Segment to the east, allowing for longer hiking excursions. It also overlaps with sections of the IAT - Gibbs Lake-Arbor Ridge connection and the JSOL Main Trail.
No, the Arbor Ridge Segment is primarily a point-to-point trail. However, you can hike it as an out-and-back from either end, such as starting from Riverside Park, to create a longer experience.
The segment traverses a wooded area primarily composed of hardwood deciduous trees, with a small grove of cedar trees. In early spring, you might spot ephemerals, and wildflowers are said to be present in all seasons. While specific wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, the natural setting provides opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free