From Vision to Reality | The Impact of Chris Schotz on Lincoln County Trails | Uniquely Wisconsin
In the 1970s, Lincoln County resident Herb Schotz was one of the early pioneers of the Ice Age Trail (IAT). The IAT was officially established in 1980 and currently runs throughout the entire state of Wisconsin, following the glacier’s terminal moraine for over 60 miles in Lincoln County. The county’s plethora of public land has led to an impressive percentage of maintained trails along the IAT, all of which is taken care of by volunteers. As a lifelong volunteer and one of the IAT’s first VPs, Herb introduced his son, Chris, to the world of trails, and together they were instrumental in the layout and design of the IAT throughout their beloved county.
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Following in his father’s footsteps, Chris Schotz became an advocate for the trails in Lincoln County. As an outdoorsman, Chris has always enjoyed spending time outside. As an avid mountain biker, Chris has carved his own path, and many new trails to be exact. Described as his “sixth sense,” Chris can look at a landscape and visualize where a trail could go. Being able to accent the wilderness by creating a path for recreationalists to enjoy brings Chris a sense of satisfaction. “Building trails is more satisfying than riding them,” he says, but he does enjoy them both ways. Alongside his wife, the duo spend their freetime constructing mountain biking trails across the state and organizing events for people to come race them. As a local expert on many of the trails Lincoln County has to offer, Chris will discuss some of his favorite trails, highlighting the Underdown, Prairie Dells, and the Ice Age Trail, as well as discuss the geological history of the landscape in Lincoln County and what sets it apart.
Over 11,000 years ago, glaciers sculpted the landscape throughout much of Wisconsin, including the area that we know today as Lincoln County. The region boasts a rich geological history. The glacial remnants and moraines make this area the perfect place to hit the trail; adorned with stunning features and glacial remnants, this area is enjoyed by both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Introduction: 0:00
Chris Schotz: 1:00
Working on the trails: 1:55
The Landscape: 3:17
Mountain Biking: 4:36