Leaf Stomp 2025 Brings Families Together to Support the Kettle Moraine

TGVG
Sep 25
3 min read

When the leaves start turning gold, red, and orange, there’s nothing quite like getting outside to soak in all that fall magic – and this year, you don’t want to miss the Leaf Stomp, happening on Saturday, October 11, 2025! It’s more than a hike, it’s a celebration of the season, community, and caring for the land. Whether you’re bringing toddlers or grandparents, planning a walk with friends, or challenging yourself to longer miles, there’s a way for every family to join in.

What Is Leaf Stomp?

Leaf Stomp is the annual fundraiser for Friends of the Kettle Moraine, Northern Unit. It’s a non-competitive hike along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail through the Northern part of Kettle Moraine State Forest. The purpose? To bring people together outdoors, connect with nature, and raise funds to help with conservation, recreation, and education efforts in the forest.

Choose Your Adventure

Leaf Stomp offers four different hikes so families and individuals can pick the adventure that suits them best:

5 miles – Perfect for families with younger children or anyone looking to take a gentle stroll through the fall scenery.
10 miles – A mid-length option, great for older kids or families who want more of a challenge without committing to a full-day trek.
15 miles – For teens and adults with good stamina who are ready to spend a bigger portion of the day exploring the trail.
22 miles – A true endurance hike, recommended for experienced hikers and older teens or adults who want to go the distance.

Buses shuttle hikers from their starting points back to the finish at the Mauthe Lake Recreation Area near Campbellsport, so you’ll always end the day together in the heart of the celebration.

What You Get & What to Bring

Every participant (kids and adults alike) will get goodies that make the hike even more rewarding:

A T-shirt to remember the day
A completion medallion and certificate when you finish
Refreshment stations spaced out along the trail so no one gets too worn out

For families: note that the 15-mile and 22-mile hikes are generally recommended for ages 16 and older, though younger hikers are welcome if accompanied by an adult. And one reminder, no dogs are allowed at Leaf Stomp for everyone’s safety.

Why It’s More Than Just a Hike

Leaf Stomp is a chance to build memories. Imagine this: crunching leaves, cool crisp air, stopping to listen to birds or take in the sights, sharing lunch on a trail, giggling over mud puddles, conquering hills together. It’s a story your family will carry home with the perfect backdrop to capture those autumn memories.

But the hike does more than fill photo albums, it supports real work: trail maintenance, forest health, native plant restoration, and education programs that help people of all ages connect with the natural world.

Tips to Make It Easy & Fun

Register early so your family is locked in and you get a T-shirt that fits. Registration deadline is September 27
Dress in layers—morning starts are chilly, afternoons warm up. Mud happens, so waterproof shoes help.
Pack snacks, water, maybe even a trail picnic for somewhere scenic.
Plan arrival logistics: early registration times, bus departure times per route.
Recharge in nature: take breaks, soak in views, do a leaf scavenger hunt with kids.
Take fun photos! A picture of the trail, leaves, or tennis shoes full of mud later will always mean something.

How You Can Help (Even If You’re Not Hiking)

Don’t hike? No problem! There are lots of ways to get involved: volunteer at registration or refreshment stations, donate to the Friends of the Kettle Moraine, or simply spread the word. Community strength comes from many small voices.

Make This Fall One to Remember at Leaf Stomp 2025

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the beautiful Mauthe Lake Recreation Area in the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Whether you choose 5 miles or go the full 22, Leaf Stomp is your chance to soak in autumn’s beauty, create lasting family memories, and support the forest we all love.

Don’t miss out on this tradition!