Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Are there any lighthouses in the Apostle Islands, and what is their significance?

Yes, there are six lighthouses located within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

These structures hold historical significance as vital navigational aids for maritime traffic in the region. Their importance is further reflected in the surrounding environment; for instance, areas of old-growth forest containing white pine, hemlock, cedar, and birch were specifically preserved for the use of the lighthouse keepers. Today, all six lighthouses have been automated, and the exterior of the Raspberry Island light station has been restored to its early-20th-century appearance to preserve its heritage.¹

What historical significance do the Apostle Islands have, particularly in relation to Native American history?

The Apostle Islands hold significant historical ties to the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, who have long inhabited the region. While the islands were named by 17th-century Jesuit missionaries for the Twelve Apostles, the area remains culturally and geographically linked to indigenous communities today.¹

Specifically, a reservation belonging to the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians is located on the mainland, directly adjoining the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. This proximity underscores the enduring presence and stewardship of the Chippewa people in the Lake Superior region.¹

Beyond this, the islands’ history is marked by various eras of human activity, including the fur trade at La Pointe on Madeline Island, 19th-century brownstone quarrying, and commercial fishing camps.¹

What recreational activities are popular among visitors to the Apostle Islands?

Visitors to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore enjoy a variety of outdoor recreational activities that take advantage of the archipelago’s unique geography and Lake Superior setting:

• Boating and Kayaking: Private boating and kayaking are popular ways to explore the islands, which feature scenic sandstone cliffs, wave-formed arches, and caverns.¹
• Fishing: The clear waters of the lake provide opportunities for fishing.¹
• Diving: The area is a destination for diving, allowing visitors to explore the underwater environment.¹
• Sightseeing and Tours: Visitors can access the islands via excursion boats and shuttles departing from Bayfield, or by taking a car ferry to Madeline Island.¹
• Winter Exploration: During winter, when ice conditions are favorable, some of the inner islands can be reached on foot across the frozen lake to view magnificent ice formations.¹

What types of water-based activities can visitors enjoy in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

Visitors to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore can engage in several water-based recreational activities that highlight the natural beauty of the archipelago and Lake Superior:

• Boating: Private boating is a primary way to navigate the islands and explore the surrounding waters.¹
• Kayaking: This is a popular method for visitors to get up close to the islands’ distinctive reddish sandstone cliffs, wave-formed arches, and caverns.¹
• Fishing: The clear, cold waters of the lake offer opportunities for fishing.¹
• Diving: The underwater environment of the archipelago is a destination for those interested in diving.¹

Access to these activities is facilitated by private vessels, as well as excursion boats and shuttles that depart from Bayfield. Additionally, a car ferry provides transport to Madeline Island, which serves as a gateway to the region.¹