Outdoor Adventure & Rentals at Howl Adventure Center Bayfield - Duluth

Outdoor Adventure & Rentals at Howl Adventure Center Bayfield

Duluthmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in moderate physical condition to handle varied terrain and cycling distances.

Overview

Discover Howl Adventure Center in Bayfield, WI - the go-to spot for bike rentals, repairs, and outdoor gear paired with a cozy café and brewery. Perfect for your next cycling or hiking adventure!

Details

Located in the charming town of Bayfield, Wisconsin, Howl Adventure Center offers an exceptional outdoor adventure hub that caters to cyclists, hikers, and anyone passionate about gear and good times. This unique business combines a fully equipped bike shop with an inviting café and brewery next door, making it a standout destination for both locals and travelers exploring the northern Wisconsin wilderness. Bayfield itself is renowned for its rolling hills, scenic bike trails, and access to hiking routes within the Apostle Islands region, a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Howl Adventure Center distinguishes itself with extensive bike rentals—including fat bikes designed for rugged terrain and winter trails—and expert repair services that have earned rave reviews. Visitors can test ride various mountain and fat bikes on a quarter-mile test track on-site or get advice on local trail routes tailored to all skill levels. The shop’s commitment to quality doesn’t end with bikes: they offer a curated selection of hiking gear and accessories, making it easy to prepare for whatever trail you choose. Beyond gear and repair, the atmosphere of Howl is vibrant and welcoming, enhanced by the neighboring café, which serves excellent coffee, fresh breakfast sandwiches, artisanal gelato, and light meals—perfect for refueling after outdoor activities. The adjacent brewery adds a local craft beer flavor to the experience, ideal for winding down after a day of adventure. Howl Adventure Center is more than a bike rental spot; it’s a community hub that connects visitors with the rich natural and recreational offerings of Bayfield. The Apostles’ unique landscape of mixed forests, sandstone bluffs, and lake vistas invites exploration year-round, with fat biking on groomed winter trails and hiking on rugged footpaths. Whether you need a quick fix on your bike, a trusted local guide for cycling routes, or a cozy spot to relax with great food and drink, Howl Adventure Center captures the spirit of northern Wisconsin’s outdoor lifestyle in an authentic, approachable way.

Adventure Tips

Test Ride Before You Rent

Try out a range of bikes on Howl’s quarter-mile test track to find the perfect fit for your adventure.

Pack Layers for Changing Weather

Bayfield’s weather can shift quickly; bring moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable on the trail.

Reserve Your Bike Early

Popular rental bikes, especially fat bikes, can book up quickly during peak seasons—plan ahead.

Stop by the Café After Your Ride

Recharge with Howl’s specialty coffee and fresh sandwiches—perfect for a post-adventure break.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Explore lesser-known fat bike trails at nearby Big Ravine
  • Visit the lesser-traveled Bayfield Bluffs for panoramic views

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Red fox

History

Bayfield was established in 1856 and has a rich heritage as a gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Conservation

Howl Adventure Center supports sustainable outdoor recreation by promoting trail stewardship and environmentally responsible riding practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Sunrise
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Bayfield Bluffs overlook
  • Lake Superior shoreline trails
  • The test track at Howl Adventure Center

What to Photograph

Rolling hills and forest landscapes
Local wildlife such as deer
Outdoor gear and bike-action shots

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protect your head safely during all biking and hiking activities.

Moisture-Wicking Clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable and dry during unpredictable spring weather.

spring specific

Fat Bike with Studded Tires

Ideal for maintaining control on snowy and icy trails.

winter specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout your outdoor adventure.

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