Ice Age Trail: St. Croix Falls to Gandy Dancer

This route offers a diverse experience. The St. Croix Falls segment, starting at the Western Terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, is generally intermediate to difficult, featuring rugged, rocky terrain, hill climbs, and sections requiring rock hops. It traverses ancient volcanic basalt bedrock. After a 4.5-mile connecting road walk, the Gandy Dancer segment transitions to an easy to intermediate, smooth, hard crushed limestone surface, as it's a rails-to-trails conversion. While mostly flat, some areas may have soft sand or slick moss after rain.

Yes, a Wisconsin State Park Pass is required for trails within Interstate Park, where the St. Croix Falls segment begins. Additionally, if you plan to bicycle on the Gandy Dancer Trail, a State Trail pass is necessary. You can find more information on the Wisconsin DNR website.

Parking is available at the trailhead within Interstate Park in St. Croix Falls for the western end of the route. For the Gandy Dancer segment, parking can be found in the small towns it connects along its length.

Generally, dogs are allowed on the Ice Age Trail, but specific regulations may apply within Interstate Park and on the Gandy Dancer Trail. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles.

The route is beautiful in spring with wildflowers, and summer offers shade along the Gandy Dancer. However, fall is particularly stunning when the leaves change color. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice, especially on the rugged St. Croix Falls segment.

The St. Croix Falls segment is renowned for its glacial formations. You'll encounter the Dalles of the St. Croix River gorge, world-famous potholes, and can walk atop the 'Old Man of the Dalles' rock formation. Keep an eye out for impressive eskers, like the Hospital Esker, which are remnants of glacial meltwaters.

Yes, this route is a significant part of the larger Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Specifically, it includes sections of the IAT - Saint Croix Falls Segment and the IAT - Gandy Dancer Segment. It also utilizes the Gandy Dancer State Trail for a significant portion of its length.

The Ice Age Trail Interpretive Center is located near the St. Croix Falls trailhead. The Gandy Dancer segment connects several small towns, such as Milltown, offering opportunities to stop for refreshments or use facilities.

Interstate Park is where the western terminus of the Ice Age Trail is located. A Wisconsin State Park Pass is required for entry. The park features rugged terrain, including the Pothole Trail with uneven surfaces and stone stairs. Be prepared for challenging sections and stunning views of the St. Croix River.

The overall route, especially the 48 km distance and the difficult St. Croix Falls segment, is not ideal for beginners or very young children. However, the Gandy Dancer segment is much easier and flatter, making it suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous walk or bike ride. You can choose to hike only sections of the trail that match your group's ability.

The Gandy Dancer segment winds through forests and farmland, often protected by a canopy of trees providing ample shade. It periodically opens up to reveal vistas of grazing animals or open meadows. The scenery is particularly beautiful during the fall color season.