Day Trip: Ice Age Geology

Much of the geology of Wisconsin has been carved out by glaciers. Northwest Wisconsin is especially notable because of the rolling hills, lakes, rivers, and streams that are a result of glaciers of the most recent Ice Age. A thousand-mile trail is being built across Wisconsin following the southernmost reaches of these glaciers. The National Ice Age Trail has a Visitor's Center (The Chippewa Moraine Interpretive Center) just a short drive from Rainbow's End Resort near New Auburn, WI.

The Interpretive Center is very kid-friendly, which makes it easy to understand for us older kids, too. Hands-on displays and activities will keep you and your kids excited to discover the glacial history of our beautiful land. Three loop trails explore the scenery and geology on display at the Center. There are county parks nearby where you can stop for a picnic lunch.

Getting There

From Rainbow's End Resort, take county highway SS south not quite 8 miles to county M. Turn left (east). The Chippewa Moraine Interpretive Center is located 7 miles east of New Auburn on county highway M.

If you get an early start, have breakfast at Bob's (505 Second Street) or Norm's Open Kitchen Restaurant (713 Dallas Street) in Chetek, both family restaurants where a lot of locals eat.

If you get started really early, take a short side trip by continuing through New Auburn to Bloomer. Have breakfast at the Main Street Cafe in Bloomer. Then take state highway 40 north to county M and go 1.9 miles east on M.

Take county F back to Chetek and look for the elk farm on the left.

Stop by Rainbow's End Resort office for maps.

Have fun on your outing from Base Camp Chetek at Rainbow's End Resort!