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While the state of Wisconsin is particularly known for its dairy and beer, this upper Midwestern state is also lauded for its many amazing attractions such as the Big Manitou Falls, the Cranberry Highway, and the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve. But in the northern part of the state, one cannot skip the Apostle Islands, a hotspot for adventurous kayakers.
The Apostle Islands, which form part of the National Park system in Wisconsin, are situated on Lake Superior off the Bayfield Peninsula. The attraction covers about 21 miles of shoreline and is made up of 21 islands, which are dubbed the ‘"crown jewels of Lake Superior."
Lake Superior is one of the series of large interconnected freshwater lakes of the Great Lakes of North America. With plenty of fun activities to do such as scuba diving, sailing, and kayaking, the Apostle Islands are the most visited attraction on Lake Superior. From its red sandstone sea caves to its rustic-wild areas to camp, the Apostle Islands are a true nature lover’s paradise.
Self-Guided Kayak Tour On Apostle Islands
The most popular way to explore the sheer beauty of the 22 islands is of course by taking a kayak ride to see rugged cliffs, beautiful caves, and coves.
One can find some spectacular sea caves with their unusual arches and enigmatic sea chambers when kayaking around Devils Island, Sand Island, and Squaw Bay.
The secluded islands give lots of opportunities to encounter a variety of wild animals such as the black bears, and the gorgeous seagulls which are abundant in the Apostle Islands.
While the Apostle Islands can be really tempting to explore on one’s own, kayakers should be aware of the possible dangers especially when there are choppy waters.
You'll need strong kayaking skills and the right equipment to venture around these islands. Experts suggest that a sea kayak is the only type of kayak that can operate on Lake Superior.
In addition, adventurous kayakers need to be in good shape and be able to swim in order to kayak without a guide.
For sure, the Apostle Islands are meant for experienced paddlers to go on self-guided tours.
Due to the changeable nature of the weather and the long distances between the islands, the Apostle Islands are definitely reserved for advanced skilled kayakers.
It is also important to note that any kayaker is required to adhere to the National Park Service’s requirements before kayaking around the Apostle Islands.
Recommended Kayaking Gear To Pack For The Apostle Islands
As per the National Park Service’s recommendation, paddlers need to use watercraft which is at least 16 feet long and do not advocate open cockpit boats, kayaks, or canoes.
It is also important to note that because of the low water temperatures which can range between 30 and 50 Fahrenheit, all paddlers are advised to wear wetsuits or dry suits, and a Personal Flotation Device, at all times.
It is also crucial to note that there are larger boats that can find it difficult to identify sea kayaks during windy or high-seas conditions, in this case, paddlers are required to carry a flag or paddle with bright markings.
Those who are planning to take a long exploration tour should plan provisions for at least one day. Some recommended items to pack are:
- Kit for First Aid
- A second paddle
- Stove for backpacking
- Radio for mariners
- Mobile phone
- Compass
- Waterproof containers or dry sacks
- Bright-colored boats and apparel are recommended
- Maps
- 50 feet of securing cord (or rope)
- Wet weather gear
- Fire-starter that is waterproof
One of the popular kayaking adventures is the Outer Island Loop, which is a 75-mile kayak trip that includes 11 of the Apostle Islands and can be done in a week.
Tours To Kayak The Apostle Islands
While those who do not possess much-advanced kayaking experience can consider plenty of tours that are offered by professionals.
These guided kayak tours are ideal for beginners or inexperienced paddlers, who usually launch in a safe paddling environment with the help of expert kayakers and are sometimes equipped to tow when necessary.
There are many tours that one can choose from, depending on the comfort level. For instance, the half-day trip usually includes an exploration of one to two Apostle Islands.
For young kayakers, tandem kayaks are perfect. For a more adventurous experience, try the multiple-day kayaking tours, which include island camping while paddling from coast to shore.
Adventurous spirits can also consider overnight excursions which are adapted for an immersive experience at the Apostle Islands.
Day & Night Kayak Adventures
White Cap Kayak is a top-rated adventure company that offers both day and overnight kayak adventures. Their package normally includes a tour of the sea caves at Meyers Beach or a visit to some quaint lighthouses.
There are also tours that consist of the canyon, cliffs, and waterfalls trips.
- Cost Per Adult: $90
Tandem Sea Kayak
Those looking for a tandem sea kayaking trip can check out the Rustic Makwa Den, which offers both sit-on-top and sit-inside sea kayaks.
- Cost Of Single Sit-On-Top Kayak: $45 per day
- Cost Of Tandem Sit-On-Top Kayak: $55 per day
Camping At The Apostle Islands
If one is planning to camp at the Apostle Islands, then there are 19 islands which one can choose from. There is also one campsite situated on the National Lakeshore mainland property.
The area has individual, primitive, and group campsites.
- Some Camping Sites To Consider: Sand Island, Devil’s Island, Rocky Islands, York Island, Ironwood Island, Outer Island, Stockton Island, and Oak Islands.
- Individual Camping Sites: Amenities include stump toilets, fire rings, and bear-resistant food storage.
Kindly note that a permit is required in order to camp in one of the designated areas at the Apostle Islands. Campers should practice Leave No Trace ethics at the primitive sites.
Safety Information
It is always wise to prepare properly before embarking on a challenging kayaking trip.
The National Park Service advises kayakers to check the weather forecast before heading on the waters.
If the weather does not permit, there are always plenty of beaches and shoreline sites.
It is not recommended to use small open boats or open cockpits to take a trip between the islands or venture to the sea caves.
A sea kayak is a highly recommended type of kayak to use when exploring the Apostle Islands.