Cross Plains, Wis. (July 8, 2025)— The Clover Valley Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is about to get a “glow up” thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers.
A large-scale, Ice Age Trail Alliance Trailbuilding event is taking place July 16–20, in Walworth County’s scenic Clover Valley State Wildlife Area and adjacent State Ice Age Trail Areas.
More than 125 volunteers from across the upper Midwest will participate in the five-day effort to upgrade aging infrastructure, improve Trail sustainability, and create a safer, more enjoyable hiking experience for the public. This is the only large-scale Trailbuilding event scheduled in the southern region of the Ice Age Trail this season (which runs through the end of October).
“Clover Valley is an often-underrated bit of Trail,” says Luke Kloberdanz, Executive Director and CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “We’re excited to bring attention to this peaceful stretch and give it the care and investment it deserves.”
During the event, volunteers will:
- Replace two aging bridges with longer, realigned bridges (12-ft and 22-ft) for better durability and stability
- Install a new 12-ft bridge
- Construct two new boardwalks
- Replace the deck on an existing 360-ft boardwalk
- Refurbish the Trailhead kiosk and wayfinding signage
- Clean up the Trail’s corridor
In total, 325 feet of new structures will be added to the Segment, eliminating muddy, erosion-prone stretches and enhancing accessibility for all users.
A Trail that’s Ready for the Future
This event not only brings the Clover Valley Segment up to standards one would expect for a National Scenic Trail, it also improves a crucial segment for long-distance hikers and local outdoor enthusiasts alike. The segment offers a mix of farmland, riparian landscapes along Spring Brook, and quiet woodland—all within 1.6 miles. Located just south of Whitewater, between the Whitewater Lake and Storrs Lake Ice Age Trail Segments, Clover Valley provides a welcome break from road walks for thru-hikers and an easy out-and-back hike for locals.
The updated segment will be open to hikers immediately after the event concludes.
Funding for this project came from the Ice Age Trail Alliance, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and from Richard and B. Lynne Schifreen. The 2025 Ice Age Trail Crew Trailbuilding Season is made possible in part by grants from: The National Park Foundation, Kohl’s Cares, and an anonymous donor.
“This is what partnership looks like,” Kloberdanz says. “Public and private support is helping us care for this National Scenic Trail in a way that benefits both people and nature.”
Get Involved—Volunteers Welcome
Workdays during the event run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and volunteers of all skill levels are welcome. No experience is necessary. For more information visit www.iceagetrail.org. To volunteer, stop by the volunteer registration table, which will be located at 7597 N County Line Rd. in Whitewater.
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About the Ice Age Trail Alliance:
The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a nonprofit member- and volunteer-based organization that conserves, creates, maintains, and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. This footpath, located entirely within Wisconsin, highlights the unique landscape and glacial heritage of the state while offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, recreation, and connection to nature. To learn more, visit www.iceagetrail.org.
About the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:
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 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 an Ice Age Trail segment.
