Current Conditions

Alerts

 

Seasonal Conditions

The mainland area of the park is often accessible during the wintertime. During major snow events, it may be a few days before the road to Meyers Beach or Little Sand Bay are plowed. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is open year-round however the islands become much more challenging to access during the shoulder seasons and winter. Winter weather can be quite cold and extreme. It is always a good idea to check on current conditions before setting out.

Sea Caves Watch provides real time imagery, wind, and waves at the Mainland sea caves. When traveling on Lake Superior, conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared and check the weather and marine forecast regularly.

This site is updated regularly to reflect the latest conditions, as is the Ice Line at (715) 779-3398 x3 and Facebook. If needed, contact the park headquarters directly at (715) 779-3398 x2, during normal business hours.

 

Updated on April 3, 2023

  • Current status of Meyers Beach Road: OPEN

    • There is currently no potable water available at Meyers Beach.

    • Please note: after snowfall, it may take a day or two before the road and parking lot are plowed.

    • Parking fees will be collected with the Recreation.gov app Scan&Pay feature. Download the Recreation.gov app before visiting to pay fees when out of cell service. Cash fee envelopes may not be available.

  • Current status of the Lakeshore Trail at Meyers Beach: OPEN

    • Packed trail which is very slippery from melting, especially in and out of the ravines. Traction and hiking poles are highly recommended.

  • Current status of Meyers Beach and Little Sand Bay Beach: OPEN

 

Current Closures

Seasonal Closures

  • Visitor Centers - park rangers are always available by phone, (715) 779-3398, and email.

    • Bayfield VC - Closed for the Season.

    • Little Sand Bay VC - Closed for the Season.

    • Stockton Island VC - Closed for the Season.

    • Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland - Open Mon-Sat, 9 am - 5 pm.

Storm Damage Closures and Warnings

  • Devils Island:

    • Dock & Campsite - CLOSED

  • Sand Island:

    • West Bay Club - CLOSED

  • Little Sand Bay:

    • Historic Hokenson Dock, Herring Shed, Ice House, and beach area of Fish Camp - CLOSED

 

Information related to COVID-19

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore encourages everyone to follow CDC guidance to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Together, we can help keep park staff, visitors, and the community safe and healthy and maintain access for everyone.

When the CDC's COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in Bayfield and Ashland Counties, individuals are not required to wear masks within federal buildings, including visitor centers.

 

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Winters in Northern Wisconsin can be quite frigid at times, with strong winter winds across the Lake, making it feel even colder. For the safety of our staff and visitors, the park will be closed under the following weather conditions:

  • Wind Chill of -40oF

  • Air Temperature of -25oF

  • Combination of -35oF wind chill & -20oF air temperature

  • Extreme snow conditions resulting in delayed removal of snow will close areas until snow can be removed (Meyer’s Beach & Little Sand Bay).

During a park closure due to weather, park offices will be closed, snow removal operations may be delayed, and the Meyers Beach area will be closed, including the ice caves (if accessible at that time).

Last updated: April 3, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 770
Bayfield, WI 54814

Phone:

715 779-3397

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