Things To Do

There is magic in the feel of a paddle... a magic compounded of distance, adventure, solitude, and peace. -Sigurd Olson

One of the best things about the Apostles is the remoteness – it takes a boat to visit the islands. Whether on a tour boat or sea kayak, the destination is worth the visit. Getting to the islands doesn't have to be a challenge. Enjoy the area's waters and landforms in some of the following ways:

Explore the Lakeshore!

A sailboat cruises past an island with a white lighthouse up on the bluff.
Business Partners of the Park

Commercial Services

Find boat, sailing, & fishing charters, guided kayak trips & rentals, and water taxis.

A young man standing on a pier holding three fish in front of a light station.
Lake, Brown, Brook, Rainbow (& Coho)

Fishing

People have been fishing the waters around the Apostles for centuries.

Kayaker looking up at a rock formation from the water.
Get out on the water!

Kayaking in the Apostles

Everything you need to know as you plan your kayak trip to the Apostle Islands.

A hiker wearing a grey jacket and snowshoes walks along a snow-covered trail looking over the lake.
Take a Walk!

Hiking

Explore the Mainland Trail in the winter to view the ice caves from above.

A tent is set up in a small clearing among tall trees.
Where are you sleeping tonight?

Camping

We have the beautiful, secluded campsite you're looking for.

Sailboat with sails down resting on calm water with the sky and clouds reflecting off the surface.
Where Water Meets Sky

Boating

Get out and explore the islands in a sail boat or motor boat.

An underwater photo of a diver wearing a black wetsuit, a submerged boat and yellow colored fish.
Shipwrecks? or Sea Caves?

Scuba Diving

A free dive permit is required to scuba dive within national lakeshore boundaries.

A lone person stands on a frozen lake looking at an ice-covered, sandstone cliff.

What To Expect If the Ice Caves Open

It is a rare and special event when the Mainland Ice Caves open. Make sure you come prepared to make the most of this uncommon occurrence.

Silhouette of a hunter in front of pink and purple water and sky with a setting sun.
Permits and Regs

Hunting and Trapping

The National Lakeshore allows unique opportunities for hunting and trapping.

Last updated: August 20, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

415 Washington Avenue
Bayfield, WI 54814

Phone:

715 779-3398

Contact Us