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Apostle Islands and Bayfield Peninsula
Wisconsin
By Alan Kesselheim

Lake Superior is the closest thing to an inland sea in North America, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with 21 major islands and 12 miles of spectacular mainland shoreline, is one of its gems. Exploring the lakeshore by sea kayak opens up a world of sandstone "sea caves," historic lighthouses, north woods wildlife, and sand beaches. The Inland Sea Symposium, focusing on kayaking skills and information, is held here each June.


Stopping on a Wisconsin road

Off the water, experience the Bayfield Peninsula and the Chequamegon National Forest of northern Wisconsin by touring or mountain bike. Take the ferry out to Madeline Island and enjoy the roads and parks on the largest island in the region. Ride county highways low on traffic and high on charm, or take to the many miles of dirt forest roads and single-track that lead to blueberry patches and apple orchards, inland lakes and quiet solitude.

Just the Facts

Best Time of Year: June through September. Fall colors make for wonderful riding, while late June to early August tend to offer the least stormy paddling window on Lake Superior.

Access: Take Highway 13 north from Highway 2, which is the main east/west road through the region.

Hazards: Frigid water temperatures, sudden squalls, and fog on the lake; sand flies that can be a torment along the coast.

Information: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Bayfield Chamber of Commerce, 800/447-4094
Chequamegon National Forest


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