Ice Age Trail: East Bluff and Steinke Basin Loop

This loop offers a varied experience. The East Bluff Trail section is generally moderate to medium-difficult, featuring significant elevation changes, steep climbs, and stone steps around rugged quartzite rock formations. You might find yourself power-hiking or run-walking in parts. In contrast, the Steinke Basin Loop is easy and much flatter, providing a smooth, grassy, and wooded surface ideal for continuous jogging through an extinct glacial lake bed.

The route is approximately 10.6 kilometers (6.6 miles) long. For jogging, komoot estimates an average duration of around 1 hour and 11 minutes. However, due to the challenging sections on the East Bluff, your actual time may vary depending on your pace and how much you stop to enjoy the views.

The East Bluff section is renowned for its spectacular views. You'll find amazing vistas from atop 500-foot cliffs overlooking Devil's Lake. Notable landmarks include the CCC Trail overlook, the iconic Devil's Doorway Rock Formation, and Elephant Rock View of Spirit Lake. The Steinke Basin offers a different kind of beauty, with forests, wetlands, and a photogenic bridge over a rocky stream.

Devil's Lake State Park generally allows dogs on trails, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times. Always check the latest park regulations on the Wisconsin DNR website before your visit, as rules can change.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but fall offers particularly vibrant scenery with changing leaves. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing streams in the Steinke Basin. Summer is popular but can be hot and crowded. Early mornings are recommended during peak seasons for a more solitary experience and easier parking.

Yes, Devil's Lake State Park requires a vehicle admission sticker. You can purchase a daily or annual sticker at the park entrance or online through the Wisconsin DNR website. No specific permits are needed for jogging the trail itself, beyond the park entrance fee.

You can typically find parking near the East Bluff Trailhead within Devil's Lake State Park. Given the trail's popularity, especially on weekends, arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds.

Yes, this loop is a significant part of the broader Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The route also passes through sections of the IAT - Devil's Lake Segment, the Johnson Moraine Loop, and the Steinke Basin Loop itself.

The bluffs are home to turkey vultures, bald eagles, and even peregrine falcons soaring overhead. The Steinke Basin area is particularly good for birdwatching, and you might spot various other woodland creatures in the forests and wetlands.

While the Steinke Basin section is very beginner-friendly, the East Bluff portion presents significant challenges with steep climbs and rocky terrain. Beginner joggers might find the East Bluff demanding and may need to incorporate walking. It's a great route for those looking to challenge themselves or combine jogging with power-hiking.

Given the varied terrain and potential for steep sections, sturdy trail running shoes with good grip are essential. Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there isn't water available directly on the trail. A trail map is also recommended for navigation, as some markers can be confusing. Dress in layers, as conditions can change, especially on the exposed bluffs.