October is made for getting outside—and if you’re taking on the 2026 Mammoth Hike Challenge, there’s no better time to add Portage to your adventure!
The Mammoth Hike Challenge encourages participants to get outside, explore the Ice Age Trail, complete 46 miles, and visit three Ice Age Trail Communities throughout October. You can hike, walk, run, backpack, or even mix in bonus miles along the way. And because you have the entire month to complete the challenge, there’s plenty of time to explore somewhere new.
So why should Portage be one of your stops?
1. You can check an Ice Age Trail Community off your list
Portage is one of Wisconsin’s official Ice Age Trail Communities, making it a natural stop for Mammoth Hike Challenge participants.
But visiting a Trail Community is about more than checking a box. These communities are part of the Ice Age Trail experience—and they give you a chance to step off the trail and experience the people, history, businesses and places that make each town unique.
2. You can hike without leaving town
One of the best things about exploring the Ice Age Trail through Portage? You don’t have to disappear into the woods for the entire day.
The Ice Age Trail winds through Portage along the canal and through the community, giving hikers the opportunity to enjoy a walk while taking in the scenery, history and character of the city.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for a more relaxed hike—or if you’re exploring with friends or family who may not be ready to tackle miles of rugged backcountry trail.
3. Your hike can turn into a whole day of exploring
This is where Portage really shines.
Finish your miles, then stick around!
Grab a bite to eat. Browse local shops. Visit a museum. Explore downtown. Walk along the water. Grab a coffee. Check out local art. See what’s happening around town.
The Mammoth Hike Challenge is about getting outside, but the Ice Age Trail Alliance also encourages participants to experience the communities along the trail. Portage makes it easy to turn a hike into a full day of exploring.
4. October is a pretty great time to be outside in Wisconsin
Cooler temperatures. Changing leaves. Crisp mornings. Cozy afternoons.
Need we say more?
October gives you a completely different way to experience Portage. Take your time, enjoy the fall scenery and make your hike part of a bigger autumn adventure.
And don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to remember it!
5. You might discover somewhere you want to come back to
Maybe you visit Portage for the Mammoth Hike Challenge.
Maybe you stay for the food.
Maybe you find a new favorite shop, discover a piece of local history you never knew about, or realize that Portage makes a pretty great home base for exploring the area.
That’s the fun of exploring a new community. You never quite know what you’ll find.
Make Portage Part of Your Mammoth Hike Challenge
If you’re planning your October miles, put Portage, Wisconsin on your list.
Come for the trail. Stay for the community. And leave with a few more miles, a few more memories and maybe a new favorite Wisconsin town.
Ready to explore? Start planning your Portage adventure at PortageWI.com.
