Ice Age Trail: Camp 27 Segment

The Camp 27 Segment is generally considered intermediate in difficulty. While it features a well-maintained single-track footpath, hikers should be prepared for varied terrain including marshland and boggy stretches, especially after rain, and some areas with loose stones. It's suitable for those with some hiking experience.

This segment is approximately 2.8 to 2.9 miles long. It is a point-to-point trail, not a loop. It stretches between Tower Road and Conservation Road, so planning for transportation at both ends is essential.

Parking is available at both ends of the segment: near Tower Road and Conservation Road. Hikers should plan their logistics accordingly for this point-to-point trail, perhaps by arranging a shuttle or carpooling with multiple vehicles.

Yes, the Camp 27 Segment is generally dog-friendly. However, as it passes through the New Wood State Wilderness Area, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles. Be mindful of wildlife and other hikers.

While the trail is well-maintained, its 'remote and rugged' nature, including potential boggy sections and a creek ford, might make it challenging for very young children or absolute beginners. Families with older children or beginners with some prior hiking experience and appropriate gear should find it enjoyable.

Hikers will encounter several distinct features. Starting from Tower Road, you'll cross a 100-foot beaver dam overlooking a large beaver pond. Further along, there's a ford crossing of Copper Creek. The trail also passes through a 'clean, open, young forest' within the New Wood Wildlife Area.

Due to the beaver dam crossing and the Copper Creek ford, sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Depending on recent weather, the creek ford might involve stepping on slightly submerged stones. Be prepared for varied terrain, including potentially marshy areas.

The trail offers picturesque views over the beaver pond from the dam. As it traverses the New Wood Wildlife Area, there are good opportunities for wildlife observation and birdwatching in a tranquil setting. The serene wilderness environment is ideal for spotting local fauna.

While the trail is open year-round, winter hiking on this remote and rugged segment would require significant preparation and experience. Snow and ice would make the terrain, especially the beaver dam and creek ford, much more challenging. It's best suited for experienced winter hikers with appropriate gear.

The Camp 27 Segment is located in a remote area within the New Wood State Wilderness Area, so on-site amenities like cafes or pubs are not available. While primitive camping is not allowed directly in the New Wood Wildlife Area, nearby options exist in the Lincoln County Forest along the New Wood River for those seeking accommodation.

The Camp 27 Segment is known for its 'fun, woodsy and wilderness trail' experience, offering a relatively short but rugged point-to-point trek. It's characterized by unique natural crossings like the substantial beaver dam and Copper Creek ford, providing a distinct sense of solitude and immersion in nature compared to some more developed or urban segments of the broader Ice Age Trail.