Kayaking the Apostle Islands
Tour Description
With over twenty forested islands and dramatic sandstone cliffs, the Apostle Islands house several 19th-century lighthouses still open to public viewing. The windswept sandscapes of the island shores and the mainland shoreline are constantly changing shape to reflect the moods of Lake Superior, offering you a new perspective each morning on this eight-day tour of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Experience the wonder of the local culture and newly designated wilderness by foot and paddle. Join NPCA for an incredible week of peace and quiet on spectacular Lake Superior and Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
ParkScapes Highlights
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Established in 1970 to preserve 21 richly forested islands and more than 10 miles of the mainland shore along the southwestern corner of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lake shore is home to dramatic sandstone cliffs, sea caves, and old growth forests. In 2005, National Geographic ranked the Apostle Islands the highest of all U.S. national park for its environmental and cultural integrity.
Wildlife Viewing
The Apostles contain some of the Great Lakes' most pristine sandscapes; their coastal wetlands and are home to large populations of black bears, deer, and colonial shorebirds.
Cultural Heritage
Experience cultural history of the Red Cliff Band from the Ojibwe nation in Wisconsin. We will also find remnants of human history from historic voyageurs, loggers, and fishermen.
Unique Lodging
Accommodations in charming lodges with spectacular views of Lake Superior.
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Tour Map
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Daily Itinerary
August 8: Arrival in Minneapolis & Transfer to Duluth, Minnesota
Arrive at the Minneapolis airport and transfer by shuttle to Duluth, where the North Shore of Lake Superior begins. Gather with your fellow participants for a welcome reception and orientation led by your guides for the week. Spend the evening in an upscale hotel on the banks of the water. Canal Park Lodge (D)
August 9: Ashland & Bayfield, Wisconsin
Visit the Great Lakes Aquarium and Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center. Meet with representatives from National Park Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, for an overview of current research in Lake Superior and the Apostles Islands. Enjoy dinner in Ashland at a local favorite and then continue to the gateway to the Apostle Islands—Bayfield, Wisconsin. Accommodations in Bayfield (B,L,D)
August 10: Bayfield and the Apostle Islands
Introduction to sea kayaking with a safe and fun practice in the ultra-stable and lightweight sea kayaks. We will kayak to mainland sea caves for an incredible view of these seldom-seen caves. Time permitting, we will also hike along one of the lakeshore trails for an visual overview of Lake Superior. We will enjoy dinner at the famous Maggie’s in Bayfield.* Accommodations in Bayfield (B,L,D)
August 11: Bayfield and the Apostle Islands
The morning will allow options for biking or kayaking depending on weather and personal preference. At noon, we will take the ferry to Stockton Island and enjoy an afternoon of hiking around the island with park staff. Later, we will meet up with researchers from FWS for an overview of the current work being done on the island. Enjoy a genuine Wisconsin fish boil for tonight’s dinner and perhaps a concert at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua.* Accommodations in Bayfield (B,L,D)
August 12: Bayfield and the Apostle Islands
Today we kayak to Sand Island and the spectacular sea caves. We will come ashore to hike to the lighthouse and witness the unbelievable views of this freshwater wonder. Enjoy an early dinner in Bayfield followed by an evening cruise featuring lighthouses and the Apostle Island’s famous sea caves.* Accommodations in Bayfield (B,L,D)
August 13: Bayfield and the Apostle Islands
This morning we kayak to Basswood or Oak Island, hike the island trails, and learn about the ecology of the island. After lunch a Northland College researcher will join us for a hands-on learning opportunity. The late afternoon will bring us back to Bayfield and a delicious gourmet dinner at Rittenhouse Inn.* Accommodations in Bayfield (B,L,D)
August 14: Bayfield to Duluth via the Bayfield Peninsula
The morning will be enjoyed on your own in Bayfield. Head back along the shoreline to Duluth. Share the memories of the week with your fellow NPCA tour participants and new friends at the farewell reception and dinner. Canal Park Lodge (B,L,D)
August 15: Transfer to Minneapolis, Minnesota
After a farewell breakfast we transfer to the Minneapolis Airport for afternoon departures. (B)
Note: This Active Adventure requires participants to be in moderately good physical condition. All tour participants should be able to hike 1-3 miles over uneven terrain; activities will include sea kayaking and hiking in a range of conditions. Expect to spend 4-6 hours outdoors most days in a variety of weather conditions. Suggested activity preparation will be included in pre-tour materials.
*Activities on days three through six may change slightly due to weather conditions.
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Tour Details
NPCA Member Price
$2,495 per person double occupancy; $400 single supplement
Price Includes
Airport transfers, all accommodations, meals specified in the itinerary (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, and D-Dinner), professional guide services, park and other entrance fees, and miscellaneous program expenses.
Price Does Not Include
Roundtrip airfare to and from destination, gratuities for naturalist guides, alcoholic beverages, or personal expenses.
Payments/Cancellations
Space is confirmed by calling the NPCA at 800.628.7275. A $500 per person deposit is due at registration. Final payment will be invoiced separately and is due 90 days prior to departure. Cancellation notice must be submitted in writing and is effective upon date of receipt. Cancellations up to 84 days prior receive a refund, less the $150 per person handling fee. Cancellations 84-57 days prior to departure result in full loss of deposit. Cancellations 56-28 days prior to departure result in the loss of 50% of your total cost. Cancellations within 28 days of departure result in the loss of 100% of your total tour cost.
Travel Insurance
To protect yourself from the loss of deposit and cancellation fees, you are encouraged to purchase travel insurance.
Arrive/Depart
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Length of tour
8 days/7 nights
Pace
Moderately paced for travelers desiring a higher level of daily activity.
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