Get ready to talk trail, hike, and learn, live and in-person at the Ice Age Trail Alliance Annual Conference, taking place April 22-24 at the Holiday Inn & Convention Center in Stevens Point.
“This is the premier event for Trail enthusiasts to come together and discuss their favorite topic: the Ice Age National Scenic Trail,” says Mike Wollmer, Executive Director and CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “Whether you’re new to the Trail and want to learn more about it, or have hiked it for years, there’s something for everyone at the conference.”
The 2022 conference features multiple hiking opportunities, educational seminars, and entertainment. Highlights include:
- Keynote speaker Jennifer Pharr Davis: Nationally recognized speaker, award-winning author, and the founder and owner of Blue Ridge Hiking Company. Jennifer has covered more than 14,000 miles, exploring trails on 6 continents, and all 50 states. In 2011, she set the fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail; completing the 2,190-mile footpath in 46 days; besting marks by elite male ultra-runners. And she did it, hiking-not running.
- Guided Hikes or Field Trips: Attendees can choose a shuttle for Ice Age Trail segment hikes or participate in “field trip-style” excursions, like bird watching at the Schmeeckle Reserve at UW-Stevens Point or a driving tour that explains the glacial geological context of Central Wisconsin.
- Future in the Outdoors Summit for Young Adults: Taking place Friday afternoon, this Summit will connect young adults with a variety of professionals who’ve made a career in natural resources, conservation, or outdoor recreation. Many topics will be discussed, including how to land a job, necessary experience, and volunteer opportunities. This event is FREE for young adults to attend.
- Breaking Trail Screening with Q&A: This documentary, which premiered at the BANFF Film Festival, chronicles Emily Ford’s historic 2021 winter thru-hike of the Ice Age Trail. Following the screening, Ford and the film’s director, Jesse Roesler, will take part in a Q&A with the audience.
- Long-Distance Hiking Seminar: A five-session workshop within the conference will help get hikers started on their Ice Age Trail journey, whether it’s a thru-hike or segment hike.
Registration is Required: Early-Bird Rates in Effect until March 18
Advanced registration is required to attend the conference. The public is invited to attend. One, two, or three-day tickets are available. There is NO charge for young adults to attend the Future in the Outdoors Summit, but registration is required. Visit iceagetrail.org/annual-conference for details.
The Annual Conference culminates Saturday night with an Awards Banquet and Celebration. During this event, the accomplishments of the Trail’s volunteers are recognized. National Park Service honors are bestowed, and Alliance award winners revealed.
2022 Annual Conference Fast Facts:
- 450 attendees are expected.
- This is the first year the conference is taking place in Stevens Point.
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 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.
About the Ice Age Trail Alliance:
The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a non-profit, member and volunteer-based organization which conserves, creates, maintains, and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. For more information visit iceagetrail.org.
