On the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore website, you'll find everything you need to acquaint yourself with this gem of a Lake Superior preserve. From pictures to an interactive map and links to area visitor information centers, the site makes planning your visit a breeze.

And breezes are one of the big draws of this park that includes 21 of the 22 islands just offshore from Bayfield, Wisconsin. Sailboaters delight in the steady breezes and sheltered waters of the Apostles. Sea kayakers are just as enthusiastic, exploring vaulted chambers and passageways of sea caves among the islands. Community links provide information about sailing and kayak outfitters.

Six lighthouses dot the islands, and most, including those on Sand and Raspberry Islands, welcome summer visitors. Oak and Stockton islands have well-worn hiking trails; Stockton, Sand and Raspberry are popular for their beaches and bays. Most of the islands have designated campsites for tent camping with a park-issued permit.

Excursion boats depart daily in the summer months, winding through the islands, past lighthouses and dramatic rock formations, and making stops at some islands to drop off campers and lighthouse visitors. Crew members share information about the area's history and natural resources.

While you're in the area, be sure to visit Madeline Island, the 22nd Apostle. You'll find a link on the Apostle website to the Madeline Island Chamber. That site includes information on the car ferry from Bayfield, accommodations, restaurants and camping in the island's Big Bay State Park.

Reviewed April 2004.

Related Links: