Serving Algoma, Casco, Kewaunee, Luxemburg and all of Kewaunee County
ALGOMA – Wisconsin’s premier fall hiking tradition is back. The Mammoth Hike Challenge, hosted by the Ice Age Trail Alliance, invites thousands of hikers to lace up their shoes or hiking boots this October and celebrate the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by hiking 45 miles and visiting three Trail Communities over the course of the month.
Unlike other fee-based endurance events, the Mammoth Hike Challenge is free and uniquely Wisconsin. Hosted exclusively by the Ice Age Trail Alliance, it encourages participants to explore the Trail’s 1,200 miles of varied landscapes — from rugged Northwoods forests and restored southern prairies to sparkling Lake Michigan shoreline.
“Many will argue fall is the best time to hike in Wisconsin — moderate temperatures, colorful landscapes and no bugs,” said Melissa Pierick, Director of Marketing and Community Relations for Ice Age Trail Alliance. “The Mammoth Hike Challenge makes it easy to explore new places and discover the small towns that make the Trail so special.”
Unlike other National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail intentionally weaves through communities. Of the 142 communities along the Trail’s route, 26 are official Ice Age Trail Communities, rolling out the welcome mat for hikers.
This year, each Trail Community has identified a Hometown Highlight — a mural, sculpture, historic landmark or cultural gem — that participants can visit to earn “bonus miles.” For example:
Algoma: Murals through historic downtown.
Milton: The Milton House, a National Historic Landmark.
St. Croix Falls: The western terminus of the Trail in Interstate Park.
Rib Lake: “Mr. Ugh,” a quirky roadside sculpture
A full list of Hometown Highlights can be found at www.IceAgeTrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Hometown-Highlight-Final-List.pdf.
Community businesses are embracing the Mammoth Hike Challenge with “Trail Magic” — special offers, discounts and surprises that enhance the hiking experience. From free coffee in Rib Lake to BOGO craft beer in Sturgeon Bay, to lodging discounts in Two Rivers, 147 businesses are participating in 2025. Find the businesses offering Trail Magic in your community at www.IceAgeTrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-Trail-Magic-Mammoth-Hike-Challenge.pdf.
“Trail Magic includes a little bit of everything this year,” Pierick said. “Hikers can receive free native plant seeds and stickers, or get discounts off pottery classes and meals.”
“Combine Trail Magic offers with your hiking and you’ve got a fun weekend trip,” she added.
These gestures not only delight hikers but also draw them into local storefronts, restaurants and attractions.
Since its launch in 2020, the Mammoth Hike Challenge has become Wisconsin’s most anticipated October outdoor event. Participation has surged — reaching 9,180 hikers in 2024 — and the event has generated more than $2.2 million in local economic impact over five years. Last year alone, hikers spent an estimated $605,300 during October in Trail Communities.
For many participants, it has become an annual tradition. “We hear from hikers who save vacation days every year to take part in the Challenge,” Pierick said. “It’s really fun to see how excited people are for it.”
Although many people are return participants, the Mammoth Hike Challenge continues to draw new hikers. Last year, 60% of registrants participated for the first time. “The Challenge really helps build awareness for the Trail,” Pierick said.
Join the Challenge: Register now
Registration is free and open now at www.IceAgeTrail.org/Mammoth-Hike-Challenge. Participants who complete the Challenge receive a limited-edition patch and certificate of accomplishment. People can register for the Challenge individually, with another person or with a group. “Register with someone else and you can combine your miles for the Challenge,” Pierick said.
Participants can also earn “bonus miles” by attending Mammoth Hike Challenge events, introducing someone new to the Trail, visiting a Hometown Highlight and more. “Offering bonus miles is our way of ensuring the Challenge stays fun and achievable,” Pierick said.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville. One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes that were carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 60% of Wisconsin residents live within 20 miles of the Ice Age Trail.
The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating, supporting, and protecting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. For more information, visit www.IceAgeTrail.org.
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