Apostle Islands Wisconsin, USA Travel Guide
This collection of islands and their adjacent mainland is a place of peace and adventure. Here, the air is clean, the water is clear, and the views stretch to the horizon. It is a destination that captivates with its quiet charm and opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Kayaking, hiking, camping, and sailing are popular activities, permitting visitors to connect with the landscape. For those who love the outdoors, the Apostle Islands present an unparalleled setting. The unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and the immense presence of Lake Superior combine to create an environment that feels both wild and welcoming. Discover beaches of red sand, deep forests, and water so clear you can see to the bottom. Beyond the scenery, the Apostle Islands hold stories. They speak of ancient glaciers, of the Ojibwe people who called these lands home, of early European explorers, and of hardy lighthouse keepers who stood watch against Lake Superior's storms. Visiting the Apostle Islands is not just a trip to a beautiful place; it is an experience that connects you with the forces of nature and the enduring spirit of human history. Be inspired by the grandeur and tranquility that define this special corner of Wisconsin.
The immense size and power of Lake Superior directly influences the climate of the Apostle Islands, creates the stunning sea caves, and provides a habitat for unique flora and fauna.
The cold, deep waters temper the climate, making summers cooler than inland areas and winters more severe with heavy snowfall. This unique geographical setting creates a distinct ecosystem, supporting a variety of plant and animal life.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore rests in northern Wisconsin, on the southern shore of Lake Superior. This designation protects 21 of the 22 Apostle Islands and 12 miles of mainland shoreline. The geology of the islands is mainly red sandstone, formed over hundreds of millions of years. This soft rock is highly susceptible to erosion from the lake's waves and ice, leading to the creation of dramatic cliffs, arches, and the famous sea caves along both the mainland and island shores. These formations are a signature feature of the Apostle Islands, drawing kayakers and boaters to explore their intricate designs. The mainland section of the Lakeshore, specifically Meyers Beach, offers some of the most accessible and impressive sea caves.
The islands themselves vary in size and character. Madeline Island is the largest and the only one inhabited year-round, accessible by a public ferry from Bayfield. The other 20 islands within the National Lakeshore are wilder, offering primitive camping and hiking trails. Some islands feature historic lighthouses, built in the late 19th century to guide shipping traffic on the vast lake. These lighthouses are reminders of the region's maritime heritage. The mainland gateway to the Apostle Islands is Bayfield, Wisconsin. This small, charming town sits directly on Lake Superior, offering views of the islands. Bayfield serves as the hub for visitors, offering access to tour boats, kayak rentals, outfitters, lodging, and dining. It is where the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Visitor Center is located, offering information and exhibits. Other nearby towns include Washburn and Ashland, which feature additional services and amenities.
Approx. 80 miles (1.5-hour drive)
Approx. 200 miles (4-hour drive)
Approx. 200 miles (4-hour drive)
Approx. 15 miles (20-minute drive)
Approx. 2.5 miles (20-25 minutes)
The landscape is a mix of dense, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, rocky shores, and some sandy beaches. The cold, deep waters of Lake Superior temper the climate, making summers cooler than inland areas and winters more severe with heavy snowfall. This unique geographical setting creates a distinct ecosystem, supporting a variety of plant and animal life, including migratory birds, deer, and black bears on some of the islands. The interplay between the land, the lake, and the climate produces an environment that is both beautiful and challenging.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore protects 21 of the 22 Apostle Islands and a significant portion of mainland shoreline, preserving this unique environment for future generations.
The characteristic red sandstone cliffs, arches, and sea caves are a direct result of Lake Superior's powerful waves and ice, carving out intricate designs over millennia.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: A blend of natural wonder, unique geology, and a powerful Great Lake environment.
The Apostle Islands region is a history that stretches back millennia, shaped by natural forces and human inhabitants. The earliest known people to live here were the ancestors of the Ojibwe (also known as Chippewa or Anishinaabeg). For thousands of years, the Ojibwe utilized the islands and mainland for hunting, fishing, gathering, and spiritual practices. The islands hold deep cultural meaning for the Ojibwe, especially as a place of refuge and ceremony. The Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Reservation is located directly adjacent to the National Lakeshore, a testament to the enduring presence and heritage of the Ojibwe people in this area.
European exploration and the fur trade arrived in the 17th century. French explorers and missionaries, including Pierre Esprit Radisson and René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, were among the first Europeans to reach Lake Superior. The fur trade became a dominant economic activity, with trading posts established on Madeline Island, which became an important hub for interaction between European traders and Native American communities. La Pointe, on Madeline Island, holds the distinction of being the oldest permanent European settlement in Wisconsin, initially a fur trading post and later a missionary center.
In the 19th century, vast pine forests in Northern Wisconsin provided timber for the growing nation. Commercial logging was a major industry, leaving its mark on the landscape.
Commercial fishing was a major industry, and the need to guide shipping traffic led to the construction of six iconic lighthouses between 1857 and 1891.
Brownstone quarries on Basswood Island and the mainland supplied distinctive red sandstone for building construction across the Midwest.
By the early 20th century, as logging declined and overfishing influenced fish populations, tourism began to appear. People sought the cool summer air, pristine waters, and natural beauty of the area.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has an unique Northwoods and Great Lakes experience, blending rugged nature with a sense of adventure. It comprises 21 islands and a portion of mainland shoreline, all protected by the National Park Service. Lake Superior dominates the landscape, shaping the iconic sandstone sea caves and influencing the region's climate.
Visitors to the Apostle Islands discover a destination where water activities are a highlight. Boat tours offer a comfortable alternative, allowing views of multiple islands, lighthouses, and the expansive lake. Sailing and motorboating are also popular, giving access to secluded coves and island beaches. On land, extensive hiking trails cross many of the islands, leading through old-growth forests to panoramic overlooks and quiet beaches. Camping is a sought-after experience, with primitive campsites available on 19 of the islands, needing advance reservations and self-sufficiency. Madeline Island, the only inhabited island, features a distinct experience with its small village, historical museum, and Big Bay State Park.
The area's history is visible throughout. Six historic lighthouses stand on the islands, some offering tours. The Madeline Island Museum gives insights into the Ojibwe, fur trade, and logging eras.
In the fall, the mainland's apple orchards offer a harvest experience, culminating in the popular Bayfield Apple Festival. Weather in the Apostle Islands is changeable, influenced by Lake Superior. Summers are mild and pleasant, suitable for most activities, though cool evenings and sudden squalls are common. Winters bring heavy snow and cold, creating the possibility of spectacular ice caves when the lake freezes solid enough for safe access.
Pack layers for any season. Lake Superior impacts temperatures quickly.
