Discover the Tranquility of Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area
Explore the breathtaking Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area, a nature preserve rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes along Lake Superior.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area is an enchanting escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This stunning preserve showcases unique ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife that are sure to captivate every visitor. With opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploration, it's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wisconsin.
A brief summary to Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area
- Bayfield, Wisconsin, 54814, US
- +1608-266-0394
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails can be rugged.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Check local guidelines for any seasonal closures or restrictions.
Getting There
-
Car
From anywhere on Madeline Island, head toward the Madeline Island Ferry Line terminal located at 1 Ferry Dock Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850. If you are in the village, just drive towards the dock. Take the ferry to Bayfield, which runs regularly. The ferry fare is approximately $16 for a vehicle and $8 for each adult passenger. After arriving in Bayfield, take the main road (State Highway 13) southward for about 2 miles. Look for signs directing you to Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area, which will be on your right. There is limited parking available at the site.
-
Public Transportation (Ferry + Car)
If you prefer public transport, start by walking to the Madeline Island Ferry Line terminal. Purchase your ferry tickets at the terminal (about $16 for a vehicle and $8 for each adult). Board the ferry to Bayfield. Once you arrive in Bayfield, you can either rent a car from a local rental agency or use a rideshare service. Head south on State Highway 13 for about 2 miles to reach the Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area. Look for the entrance on your right with signage.
-
Bicycle (after Ferry)
For those who are adventurous and enjoy biking, take the ferry from Madeline Island to Bayfield. Once you arrive, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop in Bayfield. After renting, cycle south on State Highway 13 for about 2 miles. The Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area will be on your right. Make sure to wear a helmet and observe safety rules while biking on the road.
Discover more about Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Outer Island
12.1 km
Discover Outer Island: Explore Wisconsin's remote Apostle Island with a historic lighthouse, logging history, and stunning natural beauty.
Somtara Madeline Island Lake Home Rental
13.7 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Somtara Madeline Island Lake Home Rental, your ideal getaway for relaxation and adventure in nature.
Apostle Islands Town Historic Site
14.2 km
Explore the Apostle Islands Town Historic Site, a captivating blend of history and natural beauty in Wisconsin's stunning National Lakeshore.
Escape Excursions LLC
23.3 km
Discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands with Escape Excursions, your gateway to unforgettable boat tours and outdoor adventures.
Red Cliff Reservation Pow Wow Grounds
24.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians at their annual pow wow grounds, a true cultural gem.
Island View Lodging- Bayfield, WI
25.6 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Superior at Island View Lodging, a serene hotel in Bayfield that blends comfort with adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Madeline Island Airport
26.0 km
Experience the charm of Madeline Island Airport, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Apostle Islands of Wisconsin.
Madeline Island School of the Arts
26.3 km
Explore your artistic talents at Madeline Island School of the Arts, where creativity meets the serene beauty of nature.
Le Chateau Boutin
27.5 km
Discover romance and relaxation at Le Chateau Boutin, a charming bed and breakfast and wedding venue in beautiful Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Trek & Trail
27.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Bayfield, WI with Trek & Trail's canoeing, kayaking, and biking adventures in the Apostle Islands.
Madeline Island Ferry - Bayfield Terminal
27.5 km
Discover the charm of Madeline Island with the scenic ferry ride from Bayfield, Wisconsin, and explore breathtaking landscapes and rich history.
All Hands Sailing
27.6 km
Explore the stunning waters of Lake Superior with All Hands Sailing in Bayfield, Wisconsin – where adventure and beautiful scenery await every sailor.
Greunke's First Street Inn & Dining
27.7 km
Experience the warmth and flavors of Greunke's First Street Inn & Dining in Bayfield, where cozy accommodations meet delightful American cuisine amid stunning scenery.
Bayfield Historic Walking Tours
27.7 km
Explore Bayfield's fascinating history on guided walking tours, uncovering the stories behind its charming lakeside landmarks and rich heritage.
Bayfield on the Lake Unit #201
27.7 km
Discover the charm of Bayfield on the Lake Unit #201, your perfect lakeside retreat in Wisconsin's beautiful Bayfield.
Unmissable attractions to see
Apostle Islands Sandscapes State Natural Area
4.3 km
Explore the enchanting Apostle Islands Sandscapes State Natural Area, where stunning landscapes and unique geological formations await every nature lover.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
9.2 km
Discover the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a natural oasis featuring stunning sea caves, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures on Lake Superior.
Michigan Island Lighthouse
9.4 km
Discover the historic Michigan Island Lighthouse, a stunning destination in Wisconsin, offering breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage amidst nature's beauty.
Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve
14.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve, a serene escape into nature's beauty in Wisconsin.
Big Bay Town Park
19.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Big Bay Town Park in La Pointe, Wisconsin – a perfect blend of nature and adventure awaits you.
Big Bay Town Park [Town of La Pointe]
19.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Big Bay Town Park in La Pointe, Wisconsin - a serene escape for all nature lovers.
![Big Bay Town Park [Town of La Pointe]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/AttractionImages/2cdb3984-4f3e-4eb9-9285-25ee189ce08e)
Big Bay Point Loop Trail
20.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bay Point Loop Trail, a premier hiking destination in La Pointe, Wisconsin, harmonizing nature and adventure.
Big Bay Sand Spit & Bog State Natural Area
20.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Big Bay Sand Spit & Bog State Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on Lake Superior with diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
Bay View Woods Trailhead
21.0 km
Discover the beauty of Bay View Woods Trailhead in La Pointe, WI - a perfect hiking destination with stunning views and rich wildlife.
Devils Island Lighthouse
21.1 km
Discover the enchanting Devils Island Lighthouse, where history meets breathtaking views in the heart of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Frog Bay Tribal National Park
21.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Frog Bay Tribal National Park, a true natural gem in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Basswood Island West Dock
21.5 km
Explore Basswood Island West Dock in Apostle Islands National Park - a serene gateway to pristine nature and breathtaking landscapes.
Raspberry Island Lighthouse
21.9 km
Discover the historic Raspberry Island Lighthouse amidst the stunning landscapes of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Overlook
21.9 km
Experience the stunning views and natural beauty at Overlook Park in La Pointe, Wisconsin, a serene escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Big Bay State Park
22.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Big Bay State Park in Wisconsin, where outdoor adventure meets serene landscapes on the shores of Lake Superior.
Essential places to dine
Legends Sports Grill
23.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Legends Sports Grill in Bayfield, WI - your perfect post-adventure dining destination.
Pier Plaza Lodging
27.6 km
Experience comfort at Pier Plaza Lodging in Bayfield, WI - your gateway to stunning Lake Superior views and unforgettable adventures.
The Pickled Herring
27.6 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes at The Pickled Herring in Bayfield, where local flavors meet stunning lake views.
Pier Plaza Restaurant
27.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Pier Plaza Restaurant in Bayfield - where local flavors meet stunning lake views.
The Deck
27.7 km
Discover The Deck: A scenic bar in Bayfield offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior and delightful local cuisine.
The Bayfield Inn
27.7 km
Discover unparalleled hospitality at The Bayfield Inn – your gateway to Lake Superior's stunning landscapes and rich local culture.
Morty's Pub
27.7 km
Discover Morty's Pub in Bayfield: Where Craft Beer Meets Cozy Atmosphere for an Unforgettable Dining Experience.
The Creamery Bar
27.8 km
Discover Bayfield's charm at The Creamery Bar—your go-to spot for refreshing drinks and delicious bar food amidst scenic beauty.
Hendrickson House & Carriage House
27.8 km
Experience comfort and tranquility at Hendrickson House & Carriage House in scenic Bayfield, Wisconsin—your perfect retreat near Lake Superior.
Manypenny Bistro
27.9 km
Discover Manypenny Bistro in Bayfield: where local flavors meet cozy charm in every bite.
Landmark Restaurant At Old Rittenhouse Inn
27.9 km
Experience fine dining at its best at the Landmark Restaurant in Bayfield - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning lake views.
Farmhouse Kitchen and Inn
28.4 km
Discover the Farmhouse Kitchen and Inn on Madeline Island for fresh local cuisine in a cozy setting surrounded by nature's beauty.
Cafe Seiche
28.4 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Café Seiche in La Pointe, Wisconsin - where every meal celebrates local flavors and warmth.
Rockhouse Food Truck
28.4 km
Discover delicious street food at Rockhouse Food Truck in La Pointe - where local flavors meet gourmet cuisine!
Beach Club on Madeline Island
28.4 km
Discover delicious grilled cuisine at Beach Club on Madeline Island with breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buffalo Bay Store
23.5 km
Discover Buffalo Bay Store in Bayfield, WI - your one-stop shop for fuel, snacks, and friendly service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Peterson's Foods & Smoke Shop
24.1 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Peterson's Foods & Smoke Shop in Bayfield, where fresh produce meets delicious smoked specialties.
Rabideauxs Bayfield Fruit Co
27.0 km
Explore the best of local produce at Rabideauxs Bayfield Fruit Co in Bayfield, Wisconsin, where freshness and flavor come together.
Keeper of the Light
27.6 km
Explore the artistic spirit of Bayfield at Keeper of the Light, where unique gifts and local craftsmanship come together in a charming setting.
Dessert Dock
27.6 km
Experience the best artisanal ice cream at Dessert Dock in Bayfield, Wisconsin—where every scoop is a taste of local charm and delight.
Captain's Spirits
27.6 km
Explore the best selection of local and international spirits at Captain's Spirits in Bayfield, Wisconsin, a true gem for liquor lovers.
Howl Downtown
27.7 km
Discover unique fashion and local artistry at Howl Downtown in Bayfield, a must-visit clothing store for every traveler.
Starlit Kitchen
27.7 km
Discover the flavors of Bayfield at Starlit Kitchen, where delicious sandwiches and fresh baked goods await in a cozy atmosphere.
Brownstone Centre
27.7 km
Explore the charming Brownstone Centre in Bayfield, WI - your destination for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of the area.
Roxanne's
27.7 km
Explore Roxanne's gift shop in Bayfield, WI, where unique local treasures await every visitor.
Up North
27.8 km
Explore Up North in Bayfield, Wisconsin – a charming clothing and souvenir store offering unique gifts, local crafts, and delightful toys for all ages.
SIlverwaves Jewelry
27.8 km
Explore Silverwaves Jewelry in Bayfield, WI for unique and exquisite handcrafted pieces that capture the essence of artisan craftsmanship.
Andy's IGA
27.8 km
Discover the heart of Bayfield at Andy's IGA, where local flavors and everyday essentials meet in a welcoming grocery store experience.
Field Day Market
27.8 km
Explore Field Day Market, your go-to natural goods store in Bayfield, Wisconsin, for organic foods and local artisanal treasures.
Penny Print Studio
27.8 km
Explore Penny Print Studio in Bayfield, Wisconsin, a vibrant art studio and boutique celebrating local creativity through unique prints and handcrafted treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Superior Sound & DJ Services
22.1 km
Discover Superior Sound & DJ Services in Bayfield, Wisconsin – Your go-to destination for unforgettable music experiences at any event.
Bayfield Wine And Spirits
27.8 km
Discover the finest selection of local and international wines and spirits at Bayfield Wine and Spirits in beautiful Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Clipper Brewing Company
28.0 km
Experience unique craft beers in a cozy brewery atmosphere at Clipper Brewing Company, where local flavors meet exceptional brewing artistry.
Inn On Madeline Island
28.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and comfort at Inn On Madeline Island, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Big Top Chautauqua Box Office & Gift Shop
29.4 km
Discover the heart of live music in Bayfield, Wisconsin, at Big Top Chautauqua—where every performance creates lasting memories.
Adventure Club Brewing
29.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of craft beer at Adventure Club Brewing in Bayfield, Wisconsin – a brewery experience like no other.
