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Paddle, hike, and explore the historic Basswood Island with a delicious beach lunch included. Discover rugged beauty and rich history on this unique full-day outdoor adventure near Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Paddle, hike, and explore the historic Basswood Island with a delicious beach lunch included. Discover rugged beauty and rich history on this unique full-day outdoor adventure near Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Book with Trek & Trail
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Trek & Trail · Bayfield, Wisconsin
Experience a remarkable full-day outdoor adventure at Basswood Island, located just off the coast of Bayfield, Wisconsin. This trip combines kayaking, hiking, and exploration into a memorable journey surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Lake Superior. Paddle across clear open waters as you make your way to Basswood Island, where a historic shipwreck awaits your discovery. Along the way, you’ll learn about the ship’s story and the island’s role in regional history. Onshore, a hike to an ancient brownstone quarry reveals layers of local culture and geology dating back centuries. The trail provides gentle terrain perfect for all skill levels and culminates in a peaceful sandy beach, the perfect spot for your gourmet lunch prepared by Trek & Trail. The combination of fresh air, history, and wilderness creates a balanced experience that offers both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned paddler, this full-day excursion delivers a unique way to explore the Apostle Islands, making it an unforgettable outdoor day trip.
moderate.
6–8 hours.
Participants should have moderate fitness capable of paddling several miles and hiking uneven terrain.
Yes, beginners with basic kayaking experience can join as guides provide instruction and support.
The lunch typically includes fresh sandwiches, local snacks, fresh fruit, and beverages served on the beach.
There are no permanent restroom facilities on the island; porta-potties or designated natural restroom spots are used.
Bring water, personal medications, insect repellent during summer, and a camera to capture the views.
Yes, Trek & Trail offers private bookings for groups, allowing for a tailored experience.
The route is across open water, so conditions depend on the weather; guides monitor forecasts to ensure safety.
Basswood Island served as a significant source of brownstone used for building in the upper Midwest during the 19th century.
Efforts by local organizations help protect the Apostle Islands' fragile ecosystems, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles throughout visits.
Trek & Trail is a Bayfield, Wisconsin–based outfitter specializing in guided sea kayaking tours and kayak camping in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The company offers a range of guided experiences from half-day paddles to six-day expeditions, including family-friendly Sea Caves tours, full-day sea cave trips, and multi-day traverses that visit Sand Island, Stockton Island, and Devil’s Island sea caves. Trips launch from Meyers Beach and Bayfield shoreline access points, using high-quality sea kayaks for comfort and stability on Lake Superior. Several tours are explicitly designed for beginners and families, while longer expeditions challenge paddlers with open-water crossings and overnight camping. One popular option is a four-day Stockton Island base camp with a water-taxi transfer and provided camping gear, eliminating daily campsite setup. The Sea Caves Family Tour highlights intricate sandstone formations at a relaxed pace, and the Sea Caves Full Day adds a gourmet beach lunch and extended paddling time. Multi-day trips such as Paddle Through Time and the Outer Ring Traverse combine brownstone cliffs, historic lighthouses, shipwreck sights, and waterfront campsites. Trek & Trail’s programs emphasize safety, accessibility, and immersive nature experiences, pairing knowledgeable route choices with prepared equipment lists and on-water guidance. Families, beginners, and experienced paddlers can select itineraries that match skill level and adventure appetite. The outfitter’s location in Bayfield makes it a convenient base for exploring the Apostle Islands by kayak. Reservations, group bookings, and seasonal schedules are easily available through the company's online booking system, with detailed trip descriptions and packing lists provided.
Book with Trek & Trail