Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin

A popular weekend getaway especially on summer days, this park offers lots of fun along Lake Superior.

Are We There Yet?

The park is located on the south side of Lake Superior off WI Route 13 in Bayfield, Wisconsin. The park is about 90 miles east of Duluth, Minnesota.

Once you are at the lakeshore park, you can take a cruise out to see one or more of the Apostle Islands. Transportation out to the islands is provided by Apostle Islands Cruise Service. The service offers a three-hour “Grand Cruise” which takes a look at all the 22 Apostle Islands. (Reservations are recommended.) Other cruises include schooner cruises,a romantic evening cruise, inner island shuttle, and lighthouse cruise.

What’s There To Do Here?

History and nature come together in this park so there’s something for everyone. Some choices include:

• Headquarters Visitor Center. You’ll probably start your visit here for a look at the options in the park. There are also visitors centers at Little Sand Bay and Stockton Island.
  
• Hokenson Brothers Fishery Museum. This fishery operated for over 30 years and today stands as a reminder of this local industry.
  
• Manitou Island Fish Camp. Typical of the fish camps built in the 1930s and 1940s, you can visit this camp for a ranger-led tour during the summer months.
  
• Raspberry Island Lighthouse. If you can just visit one of the lighthouses at the Apostle Island park, it probably should be Raspberry Island. During the summer months the lighthouse is manned by a ranger and you can tour the structure and learn more about this important building.
  

Other lighthouses you can visit are:

•Sand Island Lighthouse
•Devils Island Lighthouse
•Michigan Island Lighthouse
•Outer Island Lighthouse

Hiking Trails. You can choose from over 50 miles of hiking trails. Hikers will find nearly 15 miles on Stockton Island alone.

Kayaking. Several local operators offer sea kayak rentals. (Consider a wet suit if you want to participate.)

When Are We Going?

Summer months are the best time to visit this park. Summer temperatures hover around 70 degrees although lake temperatures are cooler. Bring along layers as well as rain gear in case of afternoon thunderstorms.

How Long Are We Staying?

Budget a whole day to see the main visitors center and at least do one of the island cruises. If you’d like to spend time on the islands, consider two or three days for your trip.

What Should I Bring?

Layered clothing is important any time of year as well as rain gear. Insect repellent is a must.

What Are We Doing Next?

Isle Royale National Park is located 180 miles from Apostle Islands.

Where's Our Room?

You won’t find camping on the mainland, but you can camp on 18 of the 21 islands. Facilities vary from developed sites to wilderness camping, but you will need a permit for all camping. Permits can be obtained up to 30 days in advance; for reservations call Tel. 715/779-3397.

Practical Information

Operating Season: year around; closed Thanksgiving, Dec. 25, Jan. 1
Website: http://www.nps.gov/apis/