The Apostle Islands - Wisconsin's Favorite National Park

The Apostle Islands are a beautiful group of islands in Lake Superior, they are considered to be an extension of the Bayfield Peninsula, in extreme northern Wisconsin. The entire area has been home to the Ojibwe People for more than 400 years, today the Ojibwe constitute more than half of the population. The only one of the Islands that is developed commercially in any way, is Madeline Island. The other Islands are used primarily by tourists, and for their natural resources. Hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and logging are the main sources of revenue.

The Islands offer the best of Mother Nature’s bounty for you to enjoy year round. No matter what season you choose for your visit, there will be plenty to keep you busy. Whether you want to attend a festival, explore hiking trails, relax at a campground, or visit historic museums, any type of activity that you enjoy is to be found within the islands.

The Apostle Islands are part of the federally recognized National Lakeshore Park system, and have been since 1970. For more information about the history of the islands, or other interesting information, visit the National Park service website to find a wealth of information on the Apostle Islands.

Fondly referred to as the "Hidden Jewels of Lake Superior", the 21 islands that together comprise the Apostle Island family include:

1. Basswood Island
2. Bear Island
3. Cat Island
4. Devils Island
5. Eagle Island
6. Gull Island
7. Hermit Island
8. Ironwood Island
9. Long Island (Individually, not part of the Apostle Islands, but considered to be part of Chequamegon Point)
10. Madeline Island
11. Manitou Island
12. Michigan Island
13. North Twin Island
14. Oak Island
15. Otter Island
16. Outer Island
17. Raspberry Island
18. Rocky Island
19. Sand Island
20. South Twin Island
21. York Island

A major attraction that brings visitors to the Apostle islands are the lighthouses. The lighthouses are a huge part of Lake Superior history. There are eight lighthouses still standing, and 6 of them are listed as historical treasures on the National Historic Register. Each lighthouse is unique and fascinating in its own right - you'll want to be sure to visit each lighthouse.

The Apostle Islands are also one of the most intimate wild life observation sites in the United States. Within the parks estimated 720-mile encompassing boundaries, over 35 species of animals have been seen, and close to 250 different types of birds. Because the islands are still relatively unpopulated, the animals are unafraid of people, so if you don’t bother them, they will go about their business without bothering you.

The islands each offer excellent places to eat, and to sleep, with comfortable and pleasant hotels and inns, restaurants, and cafés. In addition, there are some very exciting cruises, and other tours also. Whether you're visiting the sea caves, or climbing the hiking trails, you can even reserve a kayak to explore the waters along the endless miles of shoreline.

Whether you're interested in seeing the lighthouses, enjoying the remote beauty, or experiencing the local culture, you are sure to enjoy your trip to the Apostle Islands.

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