Ice Age Trail: Brooklyn Wildlife and Montrose Segments

While specific parking lots aren't detailed, both segments are part of the Ice Age Trail, which typically has designated parking areas at segment trailheads. The Montrose Segment connects directly to the Brooklyn Wildlife Segment, allowing for continuous hiking. You would generally look for trailhead parking at either end of the segments.

Yes, these segments are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs should always be kept on a leash, and you are responsible for cleaning up after your pet. Be mindful of wildlife and other hikers.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Late summer is excellent for viewing prairie flowers, and fall provides stunning colors. Spring and fall are also ideal for birding, especially during migration seasons. Hikers should be aware of hunting seasons in the Brooklyn State Wildlife Area during fall and wear bright colors.

The Brooklyn Wildlife Segment passes through the Brooklyn State Wildlife Area. While there isn't typically an entrance fee for hiking, a Wisconsin State Trail Pass may be required for certain activities on the Ice Age Trail, particularly for biking on the rail trail portions of the Montrose Segment. It's always a good idea to check the latest regulations from the Wisconsin DNR for the Brooklyn State Wildlife Area.

The terrain is quite varied. The Montrose Segment starts as a multi-use rail trail with crushed gravel, which is mostly flat. It then transitions to an off-road footpath through hardwood forests and restored prairies, featuring bedrock outcroppings and ridgetop views. The Brooklyn Wildlife Segment has a rolling course over glacial outwash and bedrock hills, with a mix of single and doubletrack through woodlands, prairies, and marshland. Expect some hilly sections and occasional rocky areas.

The combined length of these segments is approximately 10.8 miles (17.4 km). Based on an average hiking pace, the estimated duration for the full route is around 2 hours and 13 minutes, but this can vary significantly depending on your speed, breaks, and trail conditions.

You'll encounter diverse glacial landscapes, including kames and kettle formations. The Montrose Segment offers expansive ridgetop views over restored prairies and quiet agricultural scenery. The Brooklyn Wildlife Segment features wetlands, dry oak savannas, and exposed sandstone bedrock, with a notable Crane Lookout for wetland views. Both segments showcase the impact of glacial activity.

The Brooklyn Wildlife Segment is particularly known for excellent birding opportunities, especially during migration seasons, due to its wetlands. You might also spot various other wildlife typical of Wisconsin woodlands, prairies, and marshlands. Prairie flowers are abundant in late summer.

No, the Brooklyn Wildlife and Montrose Segments of the Ice Age Trail are linear, connecting segments. While you can hike them together for a longer experience, they are not a loop. You would need to arrange for a shuttle or hike an out-and-back route to return to your starting point.

Yes, the charming town of New Glarus is located nearby. It offers a craft brewery, restaurants, and accommodation options, making it a convenient base or a pleasant stop after your hike.

Yes, the route primarily follows the official Ice Age Trail. Specifically, it covers significant portions of the IAT - Brooklyn Wildlife Segment and the IAT - Montrose Segment.