Ribbon cutting at Ice Age National Scenic Trail event / NPS

On June 1st, 2024, organizations associated with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail gathered to celebrate the unveiling of the newly named Glacial Passage Area in Cross Plains, Wisconsin. The Glacial Passage area, which the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through, connects lands managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Dane County, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The event was a testament to the strong partnerships between Federal, State, local agencies, nonprofits, and volunteers that makes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail possible.

Held at the National Park Service Ice Age National Scenic Trail Administrative Office at 8075 Old Sauk Rd in Cross Plains, the event was jointly organized by the Ice Age Trail Alliance and the National Park Service. Various state agency representatives, elected officials, and partners took turns speaking about the natural, cultural, and recreational significance of the Glacial Passage Area.

"This area transcends its glacial significance; it thrives because of the communities, volunteers, and stakeholders who have played a vital role in its stewardship. Together, we are preserving our natural and cultural heritage for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations," said Eric Gabriel, Superintendent of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

At the ceremony, Wisconsin Lt. Governor Sarah Rodriguez helped unveil a sign with the new name, replacing the previous title, the “Cross Plains Complex”. The former title lacked descriptive appeal, making “Glacial Passage Area” a more fitting choice to highlight the area’s geologic significance. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail and the Glacial Passage Area are ideas born in partnership between agencies, nonprofits, communities, and volunteers. They highlight what is possible through shared vision, collaboration, and hard work.

Speakers at the event included Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez; Bill Quackenbush, Ho Chunk Tribal Historic Preservation Officer; Luke Kloberdanz, Executive Director of the Ice Age Trail Alliance; Bert Frost, Midwest Regional Director for the National Park Service; Eric Gabriel, Superintendent of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail; and others.

The celebration of the Glacial Passage Area marks another pivotal moment in preserving and interpreting Wisconsin's unique geological history along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.