Adventures in Boating: Wisconsin's Apostle Islands
Wisconsin's Apostle Islands are a group of 22 islands located in Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. The islands, part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, are known for their stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystem, which has earned them a place on the National Register of Historic Places.They’re accessible by ferry or boat from a marina or a private boat dock rental.
Situated off the Bayfield Peninsula of northern Wisconsin; the Apostle islands have names like Madeline, Stockton, Eagle, Oak, Otter, Hermit, and Raspberry. Madeline Island is the only one that’s inhabited. It’s about a 20-minute boat ride from Bayfield, Wisconsin. Several of the other islands have campgrounds, lighthouses, attractions, marinas and boat docks for those traveling from private boat slips for rent. There’s a shipwreck, the Lucerne, off of Long Island.
Photo: Gary Fultz/Unsplash/CC License
One of the main draws of the Apostle Islands is the sea caves, which are located on the mainland and some of the islands, including Devils Island and Sand Island. These caves were formed by the erosion of the sandstone cliffs by the waves of Lake Superior. Explore the caves by kayaking or taking a boat tour. Once on the islands, explore the area on foot, by bike or by kayak.
Photo: Gary Fultz/Unsplash/CC License
In addition to the sea caves, the Apostle Islands offer a wide range of recreational activities. Hiking is popular as there are numerous trails winding through the forests and along the shoreline. There are opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing of bald eagles, falcons, black bears and wolves.
For those interested in history, the Apostle Islands offer a glimpse into the region's past. The islands were first inhabited by Native American tribes who used them for fishing, hunting and other traditional activities. In the 1800s, European settlers began to arrive, and the islands became a hub for commercial fishing and shipping. Today, visitors can explore historic lighthouses and other remnants of the islands' maritime history from private boat lifts for rent.
Photo: Sand Island Lighthouse/Wikimedia
One of the most unique features of the Apostle Islands is their diverse ecosystem. The islands are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including rare or endangered ones. The islands' forests are dominated by maple, birch and ash trees, and the shoreline is lined with beaches and sand dunes. The waters surrounding the islands are also teeming with fish, mussels, and other aquatic creatures.
Despite their remote location, the Apostle Islands are a popular destination for visitors from around the world. The islands offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin's northern wilderness.
If you don't have your own boat to take from a private boat slip rental, there are several ferry operators that provide regular service to the islands from Bayfield, Wisconsin, the nearest town on the mainland. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination, and provides stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding islands.
We hope you’ve discovered a new destination to add to your travel or boating bucket list. Let us know what you think of the Apostle Islands.
