Islands and Waterfalls—Wisconsin

Interactive Map

Planning Tips

  1. There are only a couple campgrounds near the majority of the attractions. Try to stay as close as possible. The small Wisconsin backroads take longer to navigate that you might imagine.

  2. The Madeline Island ferry transports vehicles as well as passengers and it is not necessary to have a reservation.

  3. It is only possible to see the Apostle Islands by boat. Charter options are available in the area.

  4. Ashland is the largest nearby municipality and will offer the most service and entertainment options. Any major service needs will likely need to go to Superior or Duluth.

Highlights

The area of Wisconsin is extremely rural, but the region’s islands and waterfalls are well known.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore consists of 21 islands and the adjacent lakeshore on Wisconsin’s Lake Superior coast. Visitors to the lakeshore can explore historic lighthouses, sea caves and some of the region’s remaining old-growth forests.

Madeline Island is not a part of the national lakeshore and can be accessed by ferry. There is camping on the island and a few sights. The village of La Pointe has a few tourist-oriented shops and restaurants.

Waterfalls are clustered along the northern shore of the peninsula and on into the interior. Most require at least a short hike.

It is a beautiful part of the Great Lakes and really needs a few days to explore thoroughly.

Video

Bayfield Average Temperatures and Rainfall