Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore History

• How did people make a living on the island in the past?
  • The island’s past inhabitants made their living through logging, quarrying stone, fishing, and farming.
• What are some easily spotted traces of past inhabitants?
  • Some traces are clearly visible, such as lighthouses with their towers and outbuildings.
• What historical evidence can be found at Basswood Island?
  • The walls towering above the Bass Island Brownstone Quarry, located at the southern tip of Basswood Island, stand as a reminder of past quarrying activities.
• What remains of the one-room schoolhouse on Sand Island?
  • The only remnant of the old one-room schoolhouse, where the children of fishers and farmers were educated, is a low stonework foundation hidden in the woods of Sand Island.
• Does Lake Superior hold historical remnants?
  • Yes, Lake Superior conceals many traces of the past, as numerous ships were wrecked in its waters.
• Where can detailed records of shipwrecks in Lake Superior be found?
  • The Wisconsin State Underwater Archaeology office maintains detailed records and rich accounts of shipwrecks, which can be accessed on the Lake Superior Shipwrecks website.

2. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Attractions

Visitors to the Apostle Island will enjoy various outdoor activities no matter the season.

Sailing and Boating- Boating docks can be found on twelve of the islands. Visitors that choose to partake in the sailing opportunities offered by the National Lakeshore will enjoy bays protected by conservation laws, public docks, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the wild beauty of the islands.

Fishing- Depending upon the season, fishermen will catch a variety of fish on Lake Superior. Spring is best for catching trout and salmon. During the summer months, Lake Trout are the most sought-after fish by fishermen. The fall season brings fishermen many of the same fish as in the spring.

Hiking- With more than fifty miles of maintained trails, the islands offer a dream experience for hikers. The trails offer access to various historic sites such as lighthouses, logging camps, and quarries. They also offer access to beaches and picturesque overlooks. The islands boast several nice beaches great for walking and exploring. The Lakeshore Trail on the mainland is a rough trail for use by experienced hikers and runs for four and half miles coming to an end at a backcountry campsite. The first 0.7 miles of trail is covered by a boardwalk and 2 miles from the beginning of the trail, hikers will find a natural bridge and the first sea cave overlook point.

Kayaking- Visitors can utilize kayaking to explore the islands and the mainland sea caves. The kayak launch points can be found at Meyer’s Beach and Little Sand Bay.

Day Trips- Shuttles are available from the Apostle Islands Cruise Service for visitors who wish to spend the day exploring the islands and its history. This is great for those who prefer not to kayak or use their personal boats.

Camping- Of the nineteen Apostle Islands, only one campsite on the mainland allows for camping, but the majority of those who camp, camp at Stockton Island. Backcountry camping is allowed on sixteen of the islands.

Guided Tours- Guided tours of the Raspberry Island Lighthouse, the Sand Island Lighthouse, the Manitou Island Fish Camp, and the Hokenson Brother’s Fishery are available to visitors.

Hunting and Trapping- Hunting and trapping on the Apostle Islands is offered to visitors during specific seasons with the appropriate licenses.

Scuba Diving- Divers will enjoy the sparkling water of Lake Superior, where submerged rock formations and real shipwreck sites are abundant.

3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Plan Your Visit

Junior Ranger Program- Participants learn about the park and how to help preserve it. All kids are welcome to come and learn about the environments in the world around them.

Apostle Island School- This program is a partnership between the National Park Service, the Olson Environmental Institute, and Northland College. School-age children are sent on a three-day residential stay at the Apostle Islands that gets them away from technology.

Lighthouse Curriculum- A curriculum is available for download by teachers and students who wish to learn about the lighthouses on the Apostle Islands and their history.

Become A Volunteer-In-Parks- Several diverse volunteer opportunities are available within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The positions are a great way to help the National Park Service protect the Apostle Islands, educate visitors on their importance, all while learning new skills and gaining experiences that are hard to find anywhere else.

Apostle Islands, 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814, Phone: 715-779-3397, Map

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