Apostle Islands

“O K so whats to do up there? I am going up there in 2 weeks. We will be shacking up with some friends just south in Iron River

Anyone got any ideas? Pekka any ideas? anyone”

“sirpete:

Once you are up at the gateway to the Apostles, Bayfield, which is a cool village because it has zoned out chain restaurants and motels, pop. about 800:

1. Go to the docks and ogle the sailboats. Then find one that charters out for sunset cruises, make an appointment; not too expensive. Sailboats and sea kayaks rule in the Apostles, power boats were few when we went.

2. Check in at the outfitter store, can't remember the name, but its not hard to find in a town this small, for any sea kayaking outings they may be leading, if you like the idea of paddling. They probably also know what the scoop is on hiking trails on the islands. Some have primitive camping -- of course check with the NPS office, too (maybe they have a website). Only some islands are served by water taxi or ferry.

3. Take the ferry over to the one settled island, Madeline Island, and stroll around. The village has an interesting historical museum; a golf course; several bars; a popular state campground on the far side (you can take your car over to this island).

4. Have dinner and drinks at Maggie's back in Bayfield in the evening. A fun (and popular -- get on the waiting list if necessary, cruise to another pub and come back when they tell you) bar/restaurant that knows how to mix good cocktails, and serves everything from burgers to some very nicely presented dinner specials. Pray they are serving strawberry shortcake on the dessert menu and order one, even if you think you are full -- oooh la la it is exquisite.

5. If you prefer Victorian elegance to Maggie's flamingos, go to the Rittenhouse Inn and shell out about $45 per for a fixed price multi-course gourmet dinner. They usually have four entres to choose from -- I had venison chops when we went. Romantic and special.

We found Bayfield to be a really pleasant and fun little place. Hip enough to have good beer in the bars, but not whored out.

Don't forget the Bois Brule River back at Brule near Iron River. Beautiful trout stream, and manageable whitewater. Some trails along the banks I believe. Check out Northland College in Ashland. It is an environmental college.

You'll be pretty near (in Northwoods terms) some sections of the North Country Trail, too, including, I believe, the Rainbow section mentioned in the current Backpacker.”

“I knew you were out there!”

“Looks like you'll be up here just about the time I depart for the Dakotas. Have fun.”