The best walks and hikes in Wisconsin Islands Wilderness

No, public access to the Wisconsin Islands Wilderness (Gravel, Spider, and Hog Islands) is prohibited to protect nesting bird colonies. Most hikers looking for island adventures in this region are actually seeking the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Madeline Island, which offer extensive trail systems.

To reach the Apostle Islands, you typically start from Bayfield, WI. From there, you can take a ferry to Madeline Island or use the Apostle Islands Cruise Service to access the other islands within the National Lakeshore. Some trails, like the Meyers Beach Lakeshore Trail, are accessible from the mainland.

Yes, there are several easier trails suitable for families. Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island is a popular choice, offering seven miles of well-maintained trails with beautiful beach views. On the mainland, the Lakeshore Trail offers stunning clifftop scenery without extreme difficulty. The Scenic Overlook – Rock Island State Park loop from Gills Rock is another easy option, though it's located further east in Door County.

Trail conditions vary. Mainland trails and those in state parks like Big Bay are generally well-maintained. Trails on the islands can be more rugged and remote, sometimes requiring you to navigate muddy sections or overgrown paths. It's always a good idea to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and check local conditions before you go.

Yes, you can view the sea caves from above on certain trails. The mainland's Lakeshore Trail, starting at Meyers Beach, provides excellent clifftop views of the sandstone caves. On Madeline Island, the trails at Big Bay State Park also offer perspectives of shoreline rock formations. While the best views are often from the water, these trails offer a fantastic land-based alternative.

Leashed pets are generally permitted on the mainland trails of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and in Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island. However, pets are not allowed on any of the other 20 islands within the National Lakeshore to protect wildlife. Always check specific park regulations before bringing your dog.

For day hiking, you generally do not need a permit, but you will need to pay an entrance fee for the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Big Bay State Park. For overnight camping within the National Lakeshore, a permit is required and must be reserved in advance. You can find more information and make reservations on the official National Park Service website.

Summer and fall are the most popular seasons for hiking, offering pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, including vibrant fall foliage. Spring can be muddy but rewarding with fewer crowds. Winter offers a unique experience, as the sea caves can freeze over, creating spectacular ice formations accessible via a frozen Lake Superior, though this is dependent on conditions.

Yes, the Apostle Islands are an excellent destination for backpacking. Stockton Island and Oak Island have some of the most extensive trail systems, allowing for multi-day trips. You can hike between designated campsites while exploring forests, beaches, and scenic overlooks. Remember that a camping permit is required for all overnight stays in the National Lakeshore.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of island hiking, the stunning views of Lake Superior, and the region's historic lighthouses. The loop to Pottawatomie Lighthouse on Rock Island is a great example of a trail combining natural beauty with local history.

Several spots are highly regarded by locals and visitors for hiking:

Big Bay State Park: Located on Madeline Island, this is a very popular destination known for its scenic trails along a beautiful Lake Superior beach.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: The main attraction, offering over 50 miles of trails across various islands and the mainland, famous for its sea caves and lighthouses.

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve: A quieter alternative on Madeline Island, offering a more rustic, 'bushwhacking' trail experience through well-marked loops.

Yes, many of the best trails are loops. On Rock Island, you can hike a nearly 5-mile loop that takes you past the historic Pottawatomie Lighthouse and scenic overlooks. On the mainland in Door County, the Hiking loop from Rowleys Bay is a 6.4-mile circular route that explores the shoreline and nearby woodlands.