Apostle Islands Hiking Guide: Trails, Hiking Tips & Packing List
The Apostle Islands are located in Lake Superior, off the north coast of Wisconsin and are home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the entire region.
Hiking in the Apostle Islands is one of my favourite weekend activities as a Wisconsin local.
There are several islands that you can choose to hike on, covering lots of different landscape types from sandy beaches, thick forests, marvellous cliff edges and shallow lagoons. The islands are also full of history, with their use going back centuries.
With hikes suitable for lots of different skill levels, the area is a great place for leisurely and experienced hikers alike.
Read on to find out about 7 great hiking trails on the Apostle Islands, get my top tips for hiking in the region and keep yourself right with a packing list at the end!
7 Incredible Apostle Islands Hiking Trails
There are lots of great hiking trails across the Apostle Islands and you’ll likely want to do complete many while you’re there, especially seeing as lots of them are quite short. Here are 7 trail options that you should consider across several of the islands:
1. Lakeshore Trail

Trail Length: 4.5 miles round trip.
The Lakeshore Trail, beginning at Meyers Beach is one of the most popular trails in the area and offers the opportunity to hike along the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, sticking to the mainland.
The trail features some breathtaking views of sea caves, which are especially enchanting in the winter months when thick icicles stream from them making them into spectacular ice formations.
It also covers densely forested land, rugged cliffs and a great section of the shoreline of Lake Superior.
The trail can be quite challenging at times as some sections are close to the cliff edges, but the stunning views and unique geology make it very worth your while. Take it slow if you have to!
The Lakeshore Trail is a definite must-do hike for any avid hiker visiting the Apostle Islands.
2. Sand Island Lighthouse Trail

Trail Length: 2.0 miles round trip.
The Sand Island Lighthouse Trail is an easy, scenic hike starting at the East Bay dock and leading north to the historic Sand Island Lighthouse.
This 2-mile round-trip trail features relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for all skill levels. Currently being converted into a boardwalk, the trail is going to have improved accessibility for all visitors very soon.
Hikers can enjoy the lush forest surroundings and diverse wildlife along the way. At the end of the trail, the lighthouse which the island is named after when it was built in 1881, offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding islands.
You can tour the lighthouse in the summer months under the care of a knowledgeable guide.
Be careful on the boardwalk, especially when wet as it can get slippy. Always make sure to wear appropriate footwear.
3. Oak Island Loop Trail

Trail Length: 5.2 miles.
The Oak Island Loop Trail gives some incredible views across the islands and has a mixed difficulty level, making it a diverse hiking experience.
Starting at the dock, the trail forms a horseshoe shape, looping north through the island’s center and then heading south towards the sandspit.
Along the way, hikers ascend to the highest point in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, providing breathtaking views. The trail also features ancient beach lines and passes by the historic “sugar bush,” where maple syrup was once harvested.
This moderately challenging hike is perfect for those seeking both natural beauty and a touch of history.
4. Stockton Island Tombolo Trail
Trail Length: 2.8 miles.
The Tombolo Trail begins just a short distance from the Presque Isle dock on the Quarry Bay Trail and winds through luscious forests and even muddy bogs.
You’ll then eventually reach the stunning coastline at Julian Bay Beach to admire some beautiful views across the water to the other Apostle Islands.
You can then follow the beach south until it connects with the Julian Bay Trail. Be careful on this section of the hike as you may need to wade through some water that has flown out of the lagoon.
Covering a range of natural features and scenery, the Tomobolo short hike is a great option for exploring the beauty of the Apostle Islands in a small time frame.
5. Outer Island Sandspit Trail
Trail Length: 7.5 miles.
The Outer Island Sandspit Trail is a unique and scenic hike that stretches across the entire length of Outer Island.
The hike begins from the campsite on the sandspit at the southern tip of the island and heads north, leading hikers through a range of natural landscapes and towards a historic light station.
Hikers will get some amazing views of the coastline, dense forestry and sandy beaches while they walk and the ending point at the light station provides a glimpse at the history of the Apostle Islands.
The trail is of a moderate difficulty but should be suitable for most well-equipped hikers.
6. Manitou Island Campsite Trail

Trail Length: 1.7 miles.
The Campsite Hiking Trail on Manitou Island is a short trek that starts near the fish camp on the southwestern shore of the island and ends at a quiet campsite on the northwest side.
From the fish camp, the hiking trail passes by a vault toilet (an interesting stop!) and then continues through the thick forest. Hikers should veer left at the trail’s junction, sticking to the main route and continuing until they reach the campsite.
The trail is usually very peaceful and is an ideal option for those looking to stay away from crowds but still enjoy the beauty of the Apostle Islands.
7. Raspberry Island West Bay Trail
Trail Length: 1.0 mile.
The West Bay Trail on Raspberry Island was created around 100 years ago, again in 1921, for the light keepers to use in order to maintain the automated light on Sand Island.
The trail allowed the keepers to hike to a good view point to see the Sand Island Light and make sure that it was in good working order.
Today, hikers can enjoy and follow in the footsteps of the keepers and experience the short, scenic walk through the island’s lush landscape and remember the history of Apostle Islands’ maritime use.
Mary’s Top Apostle Islands Hiking Tips
Most hikers will probably know all of these tips for hiking in the Apostle Island, but as many of the trails are perfect for even the complete beginner, here is some advice to consider before you set off on your hike.
Bring Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is essential, especially during long hikes.
The Apostle Islands have limited access to fresh water sources along many of the trails, and dehydration can lead to fatigue and dizziness, which could ultimately make a pleasant hiking experience very dangerous, very quickly.
A great tip is to always carry more water than you think you might need for your hike to make sure you don’t become dehydrated.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good grip are crucial for navigating the terrain of trails on the Apostle Islands.
Proper footwear helps prevent injuries from slips, trips, and falls, especially on trails with rocky, uneven, or slippery surfaces.

Dress in Layers
The weather on the Apostle Islands can change quickly. Wearing layers that you can add or remove as needed helps you stay comfortable by adapting to temperature changes, preventing dangerous conditions like overheating and hypothermia.
It might also be a good idea to pack a spare change of clothes if you know you’ll be hiking in boggy or wet terrain.
Pack Snacks and High-Energy Food
Carry snacks like nuts, trail mix, and protein bars to keep your energy levels up as they give you quick boosts in sugar and fats.
Some of the Apostle Islands’ trails can be very physically demanding, and having snacks on hand ensures you maintain your energy and enjoy the hike without getting tired and sluggish.
Use a Map and Compass
Bring a reliable map or trail book and compass, and know how to use them. Many trails in the Apostle Islands are remote and can be poorly marked in places, so these tools help ensure you stay on track and don’t get lost.
Don’t rely on using your mobile phone for online map services as signal varies across the islands. It’s better to have a physical map of the area should you get into difficulty.

Apostle Islands Hiking Packing List
No matter where you hike, you should always be prepared and perhaps be over-prepared to make sure that you have a great time and small hiccups don’t ruin your day! Here’s a packing list of everything I recommend taking with you when you plan to hike at the Apostle Islands.
- Sturdy hiking boots – as mentioned above, boots are essential for many of the trails at the Apostle Islands, don’t try to make-do with some old tennis shoes!
- A jacket – no matter how nice the weather looks as you set off for your hike, it can change very quickly so packing a jacket, even a light one is a great idea. No one wants to be hiking around sopping wet or shivering!
- A reliable map – as many of the trails, especially on the quieter islands aren’t marked very well, a good map would benefit you on your hike. Don’t rely on your phone!
- Plenty of water – staying hydrated is important so make sure to bring a couple of water bottles with you on your hike. Or get a large bottle that holds half a gallon, and you’ll definitely have enough!
- Sunscreen – make sure to wear sun protection when hiking during the summer, as the sun can be pretty fierce out on the water.
- Snacks – lots of snacks in your backpack will help keep your energy levels up on your hike and stop you getting tired.
- First-aid kit – a small first-aid kit will help out a lot with any small gashes and grazes you might get on a hike. Hopefully you won’t have to use it, but it doesn’t hurt to have it!
- Insect repellent – out on the lake there are lots of biting bugs that will take advantage of any bare skin. Make sure to give yourself a good covering of insect repellent in the summer months to stop any unwanted nibbles!
FAQs
Yes, you can hike the Apostle Islands. There are numerous trails on several of the islands, offering forested paths to scenic shoreline routes, suitable for different skill levels.
Yes, the Apostle Islands are worth visiting. They offer stunning natural beauty, a range of beautiful hiking trails, unique sea caves, historical lighthouses, and rich wildlife, providing a memorable experience for outdoor lovers.
Yes, you can swim at the Apostle Islands. Many islands have beautiful beaches and clear waters, but be aware that Lake Superior can be quite cold, even in the summer months.
Conclusion
There are lots of great hiking options on the Apostle Islands, covering a wide range of landscapes and scenery, and there are trails suitable for many different skill levels.
Hiking at the Apostle Islands is similar to many other trails around Wisconsin and what you should take with you is the same for most hikes. It’s best to always be over-prepared when hiking on the islands though and plan for unfortunate events.
I hope you have an amazing time while hiking on the Apostle Islands and find a beautiful trail to fall in love with!
By the way, if you’re planning to stay on the islands, check out my post on the best cabins in the Apostle Islands.
More Wandering Michigan Wisconsin
23 BEST Things To Do In Fond du Lac Wisconsin 2024
21 Fun Things to Do in Stevens Point Wisconsin for 2024
Backpacking Wisconsin: 25 Trails To Hike In 2024
11 Best Hot Springs in Wisconsin
Green Bay Spa: 5 Best Options (2024)
17 Best Door County Hikes To Do In 2024
7 Clearest Lakes in Wisconsin
The 7 Best Rodeos in Wisconsin to Visit in 2024
11 Best Things to Do Near Chetek Wisconsin
15 Fun Things to Do in Chippewa Falls Wisconsin
15 Things to Do in Oxford Wisconsin in 2024 From a Local
15 Things to Know Before Moving to Wisconsin
Central Wisconsin Travel Guide: Things To Do & More (2024)
Central Wisconsin State Fair: Ultimate Guide 2024
23 BEST Things To Do In Fond du Lac Wisconsin 2024
21 Fun Things to Do in Stevens Point Wisconsin for 2024
Backpacking Wisconsin: 25 Trails To Hike In 2024
11 Best Hot Springs in Wisconsin
Green Bay Spa: 5 Best Options (2024)
17 Best Door County Hikes To Do In 2024
7 Clearest Lakes in Wisconsin
The 7 Best Rodeos in Wisconsin to Visit in 2024
11 Best Things to Do Near Chetek Wisconsin
15 Fun Things to Do in Chippewa Falls Wisconsin
15 Things to Do in Oxford Wisconsin in 2024 From a Local
15 Things to Know Before Moving to Wisconsin
Central Wisconsin Travel Guide: Things To Do & More (2024)
Central Wisconsin State Fair: Ultimate Guide 2024
10 Best Places To See Christmas Lights In Madison Wisconsin (2024)
Door County Fall Fest: Everything To Know For 2024
9 Best Wild Rose Wisconsin VRBOs