The Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin is a remarkable testament to glacial history, stretching over 1,200 miles and offering a unique window into Wisconsin’s geological past. The Ice Age Trail is so much more than a great place to go hiking, though. It’s one of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States and meanders through some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful natural settings, offering a rare glimpse into the natural forces that shaped some of our country’s most storied landscapes.
Over the course of the Ice Age Trail’s 1,200 miles, hikers will encounter diverse ecosystems, from lush forests and vast prairies to quiet wetlands and rugged hills. Each segment of the trail offers its own unique view of Wisconsin – and it’s also an interesting way to explore the charming smaller communities of the state along the way. West Bend, where our top-rated Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast is located, is one of those communities.Â
After a day of exploring the trail’s scenic beauty, relax and enjoy the relaxing ambiance and signature hospitality at Hidden Serenity. Our Wisconsin Inn provides a perfect base from which to explore more activities in the region and a cozy, well-appointed home away from home to return to when you’re done. Don’t miss the best of Wisconsin this summer. Book your stay with us today!Â
Hike the Scenic Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin
West Bend is one of the many trail communities along the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin, which means guests staying with us at the Inn have easy access to this exceptional hiking opportunity. The West Bend Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is 6.7 miles long and takes you through some of the area’s most beautiful parks and preserves. The trail begins near Lucas Lake and heads north as it passes over and by Silver Creek, eventually ending in the Glacial Blue Hills Recreation Area, where it meets up with the next segment of the Ice Age Trail. Â
As it continues, this segment of the Ice Age Trail crosses some of the most beautiful preserves in the area, which are protected by the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation. The Foundation protects several preserves, each offering unique glimpses of the area’s distinctive Kettle Moraine topography. As the trail segment continues north, you’ll encounter Ridge Run Park. Here, hikers will walk along a boardwalk over a preserved wetland before eventually finding a winding path along Silver Creek and a network of lily-filled ponds and lakes.
At this point, you’ll encounter a more suburban portion of the Ice Age Trail before once again climbing into a beautiful forested ridge in the scenic countryside of West Bend. You’ll find yourself in the scenic Glacial Blue Hills Recreation Area, where you can traverse some of the most rugged trails on this portion of the Ice Age Trail. The terrain dips between ridges as it travels along the moraine, offering hikers a fantastic glimpse of ancient glacial activity.Â
You can end your hike here, or if you want to explore more, you can try out one of the surrounding Ice Age Trail segments. To the north of the West Bend segment are the gorgeous Kewaskum and Milwaukee River Segments, which total just over 12 miles of hiking. Highlights in this area are the Otten Preserve, which has gorgeous overlooks of the region, and the scenic woodlands and meadows along the Milwaukee River as it heads deeper into the northern unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. This is a fantastic segment for bird watchers.
A 5.4-mile connecting route to the south takes you to the 2.4-mile Cedar Lakes Segment. Highlights here include several Polk Kames, wetlands, and mixed forests of old oaks, sugar maple, white birch, and beech that are stunning during fall. It then connects to the Slinger Segment, where the highlight is the village of Slinger itself, a former trading center for Native Americans.
Hiking this portion of the Ice Age Trail provides a robust experience that varies from gentle walks through forested areas to more challenging treks across hilly terrain. The paths are well-maintained, with clear signage and several access points, making it easy for hikers to tailor their journey to their fitness level and interest.Â
Unwind in the Spa at our Bed and Breakfast
With all this great hiking on the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin at your fingertips, you’ll need a restful place to return home to at the end of the day. There’s no better place to stay in Wisconsin than our romantic getaway. Whether you’re here to do some hiking or not, we offer a distraction-free environment perfect for romantic getaways.
Our Inn is designed as a haven for couples who want to relax, unwind, and unplug – leaving the stress of home behind for a few days. Heading out for adventures, whether on the Ice Age Trail, in the Kettle Moraine Forest, or simply on our private, wooded property, is a wonderful way to spend some dedicated time together before returning to our Inn for a bit more pampering and indulgence.
We’ve carefully curated the guest experience at our Bed and Breakfast to be a beautiful, relaxing retreat. Our closest neighbors are the birds and deer that move through our forest – and maybe the animals across the street at the Shalom Wildlife Zoo. We aren’t very far from major cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago – and popular destinations like Cedarburg and Port Washington are just a short drive away. Here, however, you’ll find a tranquil, wooded paradise that feels like your private oasis.Â
Our Bed and Breakfast features seven guest rooms, each outfitted with high-end amenities like fine linens, wine glasses, and a cooler with complimentary beverages, luxury robes, bath products, and more. Some have jetted spa tubs and fireplaces for added indulgence. In the morning, join us in the dining room for a warm cup of coffee, fresh juice, and a delicious, homemade breakfast. We change our menu with the seasons and frequently alternate between sweet and savory entreés, but we also serve something hearty and tasty!
The real highlight of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast is our newly expanded spa. Our spa is the perfect indulgence for your getaway—whether after an invigorating hike or in place of your daily adventure. The spa experience is complimentary for all guests who stay with us and features a steam room and sauna, a jetted hot tub, a cold deluge shower, a fireplace with relaxing chairs to enjoy some peace and quiet, and large picture windows with beautiful forested views. It’s the ultimate in luxury.
If you’re ready to experience the best of Wisconsin this summer, it’s time to book your room at highly rated Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast!
