In the Anishinaabe (or Ojibwe) language the island is known as, Mooniingwanekaaning. The island is the ancestral homeland of Lake Superior Anishinaabe and it was ceded to the United States by the Treaty of La Pointe in 1842 (negotiated and signed on the island, just like the subsequent treaty in 1854).

The Madeline Island Museum was first opened in 1958 by Bella and Leo Capser, who had been long-time residents of the island. The museum is located on the former site of the American Fur Company. A decade later, it was transferred to the Wisconsin Historical Society, which continues to manage the site. In the 1990s, the main building of the museum was constructed.

Today, Madeline Island Museum consists of the main building which houses a gift shop, a theater, and several exhibit spaces, including the main exhibit space, where Passage is currently displayed. This building is connected to historic buildings of the American Fur Company, including their warehouse.

“Passages: Ojibwe Migration to the Place Where the Food Grows on the Water”

“Passages” debuted when the Madeline Island Museum open in May of 2024.

Passages features a mix of text, historic photos, maps, historic petitions and treaties, displayed on the outside wall of the exhibit room. Moving clockwise around the room from the opening up panels, visitors learn about Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) perspectives on the Apostle Islands and surrounding region, their migration story to the region, Chief Buffalo’s 1852 journey to Washington after the Sandy Lake Tragedy, the Oshcabawis Pictograph, and the Treaty of La Pointe in 1854.

The opening panel from the “Passages” exhibit and another panel discussing the significance of the Apostle Islands.

Overall, the exhibit tells engaging, interconnected stories that will deepen visitors’ sense of place for Madeline Island, the Apostle Islands, and the Chequamegon Bay region. The panels frequently incorporate ojibwemowin (the Ojibwe language) and quotations from Anishinaabe citizens throughout the western Lake Superior watershed. Screen shares stories and knowledge from Anishinaabe citizens of Bad River and Red Cliff, and in one corner, a film screens the award-winning documentary Bad River (with a bench so visitors who want to take in part of the film are welcome to take a break).

Panels highlighting the voices from citizens of the Bad River and Red Cliff Anishinaabe Nations.

It’s no secret that I love maps, and the maps were one aspect of the exhibit that I particularly enjoyed. Throughout the exhibit, maps are used to situate the stories and narratives. Historic maps are also included in the panels. These maps are interpreted through Anishinaabe perspectives, illustrating Anishinaabe people’s environmental knowledge that has been passed on through generations.

Two panels featuring maps to show the importance of place.

“Passages” also does an excellent job displaying and interpreting the Oshcabawis Pictograph and panels displaying the full text of the Treaty of La Pointe from 1854. The panel also highlights and enlarges particularly significant passages of the treaty, like Article 2 which discusses where Anishinaabe people’s reservations in the western Lake Superior watershed will be located. This is one of the most effective displays of a treaty I’ve seen in a museum.

Potential Places for Expansion

The only place where I feel “Passages” could benefit from more context is the big jump from the Anishinaabe migration to Madeline Island to the Sandy Lake Tragedy. I know space (and time and budget) are always the realistic limitations of exhibits. In an imaginary world with unlimited exhibit space and resources, I’d love to see a panel on relationships between Anishinaabe people and new arrivals working in the fur trade (French, British, Americans, etc.) to help fill this gap.

This could also be a place to mention the island’s namesake, Madeline Cadotte (usually spelled as Ikwezewe in the Fiero double vowel orthography and is commonly spelled as Equaysayway in primary sources). Her life and her family’s lives are an example of how involvement in the fur trade led to many passages throughout the Great Lakes for Anishinaabe and other Indigenous peoples.

The fur trade also connects to the Sandy Lake Tragedy. Brenda Child (Red Lake) and other historians have shown how the mid-19^th century also corresponds with a demographic shift in (American territory) of the western Lake Superior watershed. Until this point, since European arrival in the area, Anishinaabe peoples were the demographic majority. However, from the mid-1800s on, Euro-Americans become the demographic majority.

Material Culture That Connects Past and Present

To me, the highlight of “Passages” is the stunning display of three canoes in the center of the room. They are a striking visual representation of the theme “Passages” and make clear connections between the knowledge and craftsmanship of Indigenous peoples in the Apostle Islands region across generations.

The center canoe is a dugout canoe made from white pine. Originally found on Madeline Island, it is part of the museum’s collection and is usually displayed in the old museum building. Another canoe is a birch bark canoe with a cedar bark sail constructed by the Great Lakes Lifeways Institute in 2023 constructed using traditional methods. The other is a dugout canoe made from white pine from the Red Lake Tribal Nation constructed in 2022 by the Great Lakes Lifeways Institute.

Together, the three canoes are an excellent example of how, despite political and environmental challenges, Indigenous peoples continue to adapt the methods used for generations so that these traditions endure into the present day.

This is the power of material culture—it serves a concrete connection across time and space.

“Passages” will probably also be on display at the Madeline Island Museum next year, but there may be additions or other changes, so I recommend visiting this fall if possible. I particularly recommend a visit if you live in the Chequamegon Bay area or a nearby region. While it is important for tourists to develop a deeper sense of place by learning Anishinaabe histories of the region, it is even more important for people who live on ceded territory in the region.

Take Your Own Journey to View Passages!

I’ve enjoyed all the rotating exhibits at the Madeline Island Museum since 2017, and “Passages” is definitely a favorite. Visitors can view “Passages” at the Madeline Island Museum till the end of the season.

The Madeline Island Museum is currently open 10 am to 5 pm from Wednesday to Sunday until October 19. Visitors must take the ferry from Bayfield (or their own boat) to get to the museum. The museum is about a block away from the ferry docks on the island, so if it’s the main reason for your visit, you don’t need to take a vehicle. However, if you want to explore Big Bay Town Park or Big Bay State Park after visiting the museum, you should take a vehicle (or bike).

If you are new to making trips to Madeline Island, familiarize yourself with the ferry schedule and what businesses are open and what their hours are. Remember, La Pointe is a small town, and while a lot of tourists visit, it has more limited amenities than what some tourists may be used to. If you prepare in advance, you are more likely to enjoy your trip!

Further References

To learn more about Anishinaabe perspectives on the Chequamegon Bay, listen to Mike Wiggins (the director the Madeline Island Museum) talk for the Wisconsin Historical Society’s Winter Storytelling series in 2023.

To learn more about Madeline Cadotte and the demographic changes in the western Lake Superior region in the mid-19^th century, check out Brenda Child’s book Holding Our World Together: Ojibwe Women and the Survival of Community (New York: Penguin Books, 2013).

Holding Our World Together: Ojibwe Women and the Survival of Community (Penguin Library of American Indian History)

• Child, Brenda J. (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 240 Pages - 01/29/2013 (Publication Date) - Penguin Books (Publisher)

$15.00

Buy on Amazon

To learn more about the treaty history of northwestern Wisconsin, check out Erik Redix’s book Erik Redix, The Murder of Joe White: Ojibwe Leadership and Colonialism in Wisconsin, (Lansing: Michigan State University Press, 2014).

Sale

The Murder of Joe White: Ojibwe Leadership and Colonialism in Wisconsin (American Indian Studies)

• Redix, Erik M. (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 294 Pages - 09/01/2014 (Publication Date) - Michigan State University Press (Publisher)

$30.02

Buy on Amazon

Well, that fun athletic pot gets even sweeter when the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon on Madeline Island is added to all that good, clean fun. Madeline Island holds this inline event each summer, created for skaters of all skill levels in three different races and start times. The event encourages its participants to have fun, enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Island, and get their heart rates up!

For the 2024 season of inlane racing and fun, you can expect to get in gear on June 15, 2024.

In this article, we’ll give you details about the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon event, what to do on Madeline Island, and inspiration for your next Apostle Islands adventure. So, get those skates on and grab your shades—the future of inline skating is about to get bright!

Where Does the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon Take Place?

Like its name, the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon takes place on Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior, in the Town of La Pointe.

If you’re visiting the Island, you can take a Ferry from Bayfield and admire the beautiful white caps of Lake Superior along the way. Bring a sweatshirt or a coat, though; it can be a little chilly with the Great Lake breeze!

The 14-mile Island is bikeable if you choose not to bring your car, but I would suggest either bringing your car or bike so you have a nice mode of transportation while enjoying the Island life. Take a look at the Ferry Rates so you can begin planning your Madeline Island Adventure!

Who Can Participate in the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon?

If you have a pair of skates, a helmet, some extra cash, and you’re over ten (with the expectation of the ‘Mad Skate’ to which the entry-level is eight years and older), then your need for speed is about to be quenched!

Three different races take place during this spectacular fun skating event, a race for each comfortable skill level and skate intention. Let’s break it down:

1. Full Marathon (The Marathon)
   • The Full Marathon is equal to three full loops on the 8.7-mile skating course, for the complete 26.2 miles
   • Requires a helmet; knee and elbow pads are recommended
   • Must be ten years old or older
2. Half Marathon (ALMT)
   • The Half Marathon is a little over two loops around the 8.7-mile skating course
   • Requires a helmet; knee and elbow pads are recommended
   • Must be ten years old or older
3. Mad Fun Skate
   • The Mad Fun Skate is one full loop of the 8.7-mile course
   • This race starts after the other two races have started
   • Requires a helmet; knee and elbow pads are recommended
   • Must be eight years old or older

Follow along on the event’s Facebook Page to stay up-to-date on the event and learn about ways you can Volunteer!

Signing Up for the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon

Time to gear up and get psyched! There are two ways that you can get signed up for the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon:

• Fill out the form online
  • Email info@mangledmomentum.com for assistance
• Download the PDF, fill it out, and mail it out
  • Apostle Islands Inline, P O Box 746, Ashland, WI 54806

Below are the fees and entry dates required for the 2024 Apostle Islands Inline Marathon event; please check out their website for further information or their Facebook Page for updates. As no ‘race day registrations’ are allowed, checking this out is essential!

Registration Prices/Details for Full & Half Marathon

• $88.62 (Fees/Tax Included) if postmarked between March 16th, 2024 – May 23rd, 2024
• $93.89 (Fees/Tax Included) if postmarked after May 23rd, 2024
• Registration includes 1 round-trip passenger Ferry ride, a shirt, and a medal

Registration Prices/Details for Mad Fun Skate

• $21.10 (Fees/Tax Included) if postmarked after March 16th, 2024 – May 23rd, 2024
• $26.37 (Fees/Tax Included) if postmarked after May 23rd, 2024
• Registration includes a finisher’s medal

Whoop whoop! A big step for a fun day! Be sure to check out their Race Safety page to find your proper starting time wave and have peace of mind while you’re skating away.

When is the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon?

The Apostle Islands Inline Marathon always takes place during the Summer so everyone can soak in some sunrays and have a good time!

In 2024, the race date for the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon is June 15, 2024.

To be kept in the loop about future events and news about the Apostile Islands Inline Marathon you can follow their Facebook page and save their Website on your computer.

What to do on Madeline Island?

If you’re curious about what to do on Madeline Island during the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon, you’re in for a real Island Life treat!

With the beautiful Island right on Lake Superior, you won’t be starving for gorgeous sights, that’s for sure! And you can also satisfy your hunger, shopping needs, and wet your whistle will all sorts of wonderful local establishments.

I highly encourage you to dawdle about before the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon and explore the Island for yourself, but I’ll list a few establishments to get you started on your Madeline Island adventure!

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

“Howdy, island adventurers! I recently had the pleasure of stumbling upon the one-of-a-kind Tom’s Burned Down Cafe on Madeline Island, Wisconsin, and let me tell ya, it was a quirky experience like no other. Now, let’s start with the name itself – Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. Yes, you read that right. This place is literally a bar that was once burned down and then creatively rebuilt with salvaged materials, giving it a unique and eccentric charm. The atmosphere is laid-back, with a funky mishmash of decorations that’ll have you scratching your head in wonder. The drinks? Well, they might not be the most sophisticated or refined, but boy, are they strong! It’s the kind of place where you order a simple beer or a classic mixed drink and enjoy it for what it is. The service is as relaxed as the island life, with friendly bartenders who are always up for a chat. Now, this place isn’t for everyone – if you’re looking for a fancy cocktail lounge, look elsewhere. But if you’re up for a quirky, offbeat bar experience that captures the true spirit of Madeline Island, then Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is the spot for you. So embrace the unconventional, grab a drink, and enjoy the peculiar ambiance of this island gem. Cheers to the unexpected! ”

– N. J. S,

Address: 274 Chebomnicon Bay Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Hours: Monday-Sunday, 12 PM-2 AM

Grampa Tony’s on Madeline Island

“Wonderful place, we had pizza and ice cream and it was quality! I highly recommend this as a spot for dinner and watch the sun set”

– DnD Squirrel,

Address: 814 Fort Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Hours: Monday-Wednesday, Closed. Thursday-Sunday, 8 AM – 9 PM.

Rockhouse Food Truck

“We love Jody’s food truck. The food is always amazing. Highly suggest ordering online because the lines get long and they sell out quickly. My favorites are the veggie burger and the greek salad. My family loves the smash burgers and gyros. The veggie burger is served on a pita with fresh vegetables and a spicy feta sauce that is delicious.”

– Vanessa M,

Address: 713 Fort Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Mission Hill Coffee House

“What an incredible staff. They make the best chai tea in town. On a deeper level, I love their ‘pay it forward’ board that allows customers to chip in to buy someone else’s drink. What a wonderful, community forward sentiment. Also, the best gluten-free options in town! More places should follow their exceptional lead.”

– David G,

Address: 794 Chebomnicon Bay Rd, La Pointe, WI

Hours: Monday-Sunday, 7 AM – 2 PM

There’s a lot to explore and experience on this beautiful Island, as well as in the city of Bayfield, where you’ll dock. I can’t recommend enough the opportunity to dawdle about with the ones you love and make some wholesome in-the-moment memories. Those are the ones we recall the most!

Now that you’ve checked all the important details for the Apostle Islands Inline Marathon, you can start getting psyched up for a fun event and adventure on Madeline Island and the beautiful surrounding areas, such as Ashland, Washburn, and Bayfield!

From all of us here at On Lake Superior, we wish you the best of luck and speed, but most importantly, have fun and make some memories!

Whether you’re on an adventure to seek out the best bars in Wisconsin or you’re heading to Madeline Island to camp at Big Bay State Park, when you’re on the Island, you gotta take a pit stop at the wondrous eclectic castle that is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. I promise you’ve never seen anything like it; it’s the poster child of one-of-a-kind dive bar experiences in Wisconsin.

Grab a drink with your friends or chat it up with the down-to-earth locals while you pet a dog, and gather around stories and memories in the making surrounded by old treasures and Island time.

Everyone is welcome at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe, and you may even find your new happy place!

What to Expect at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

Get your cash ready! If you’re searching for a unique experience while you’re on Lake Superior, then this place will make your adventurous heart sing. As you walk up to Tom’s, you’re already feeling this relaxed energy from being on Madeline Island, but when you start to see the humongous canvas tent and the eclectic decor greeting you and leading you inside the bar, it’s truly unlike anything else you’ll experience.

The mixture of music over the speakers, clinking glasses, and a collection of floating voices from the patrons makes for a stellar ambiance while you’re soaking in one of the most unique bars in Wisconsin. There are non-alcoholic options as well as alcoholic drinks, but of course, if you’re craving some chips/pretzels, just ask the friendly bartender! At this establishment there is currently no food being served, but there are bags of snacks available to purchase.

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Seating is scattered around the bar; as you walk in, there are seats along the side by their Merch Shirts, and there are tables and chairs set up around the entire bar, wrapping around toward the back as well. If you’re checking this place out while the sun is still up, you may even be able to find some nice outdoor seating. I encourage you to take your time looking around at all of the amazing decor, thought-provoking and equally hilarious signs, and even floor decor that are plastered all around this eccentric bars on Madeline Island.

Like much of the Island, this is a pet-friendly establishment. While you’re mingling or people-watching, you’re very likely to see a pup or two taking in the local scene as well. What more could you ask for, honestly? A one-of-a-kind atmosphere, awesome service, a local experience, dogs, drinks, snacks, and all on Lake Superior’s largest Island?! It doesn’t get much better than that!

While my Husband and I were here, we snagged a cute table for two on their makeshift stage where usually live music would be played. But since there wasn’t any entertainment scheduled for that night, we got one of the coolest seats in the house! Or, shall I say, tent.

One of our favorite things to do together while we’re dawdling on our adventures is to explore local gems, order some good food/drinks, and play Rummy together. And Tom’s Burned Down Cafe was a magnificent spot for our well-worn cards and happy-camper souls to take a load off!

We loved hanging out at Tom’s because it feels like the equivalent of the coolest treehouse around. The wonderlike atmosphere of being on an Island while at the same time being immersed in this experience of what feels like a makeshift place but actually has so much intention and heart poured into it is truly outstanding. Everyone who’s at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is there to take a pause from life’s busy and demanding schedule to sit down, enjoy a drink, and slow down.

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is easily one of my all-time favorite bars I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing. And it’s doubled for being on the beautiful Lake Superior!

Where is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe?

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is on Madeline Island, and conveniently it is a few blocks away from the Ferry! So, if you’re coming for a day trip to Madeline Island, it’s incredibly walk-friendly to take a tip to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe and the other awesome establishments on the Island. While you’re on Madeline Island or looking for an adventure outside of Bayfield, it’s worth the Ferry trip to check out one of the best bars in Wisconsin.

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe Address

274 Chebomnicon Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Things to do Near Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

While you’re bumming around La Pointe on Madeline Island, there are plenty of fun and delicious exploring opportunities! After you’re done checking out Tom’s Burned Down Cafe (and have made plans to come back!), here are some other cool spots on the Island you might enjoy.

Grampa Tony’s on Madeline Island

“I’ve been coming here for years. One of the must things to do on the island!” – Tim L

Harry Nelson Rec Center

“They have a nice little playground that entertained my kiddo for about as long as most playgrounds do. There is also a ball diamond, tennis courts, and picnic shelter. They do have bathrooms.” – Wisconsin For Kids Blog

Mission Hill Coffee House

“So much more than a coffee shop. Great coffee, awesome goods!” – Ira M

Madeline Island Candles

“The candles smell so good and are reasonably priced. The garden on the property is also beautiful. Definitely stop by if you are on the island…they have more than just candles, it’s also a gift shop.” – Heather A

Bell Street Tavern, Events, and Lodging

“Had an AMAZING experience here! when all other venues on the island were closed on a Saturday morning, we saw the tavern lights on and found Michelle who welcomed us with open arms!! She didn’t skip a beat to open early just for us, and her generosity and kindness was just what our group of tired moms needed to brighten our day. Service was exceptional, the tavern was warm and cozy. Next time we’re going to rent the condo units upstairs for the full experience!! Thank you Bell Street Tavern!” – Melissa T

These are just a few things to do on Madeline Island; please be sure to check out the map for yourself and see what looks groovy to you!

I hope while you’re on your search for dive bars in Wisconsin and or the BEST bars in Wisconsin, you take a journey to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe because it is most certainly worth it! Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on their future events and entertainment schedules. You never know who may be playing at Tom’s, and you can make a trip out of it!

Wherever your travels take you, may they bring you to the darling and adventurous experiences you can only find on Lake Superior.

Experience the gorgeousness of Lake Superior from its largest Apostle Island, and call it an adventure! Your journey to lakeside paradise awaits.

We’ll be taking a fun dive into Big Bay State Park, but we’ll also be sure to touch on fun spots you can explore on Madeline Island, like the iconic and eccentric Tom’s Burned Down Cafe! If you’re searching for adventure or things to do near Bayfield WI, your journey awaits at Big Bay State Park!

How To Get To Big Bay State Park

I’ll show you the way to Big Bay! First things first, you’ll need to hitch a ride on the iconic Madeline Island Ferry Line in Bayfield. As someone who’s been on the Ferry multiple times, I can say that it’s a pleasant and picturesque experience.

The only suggestion I would make is to wear a sweater/coat if you’re traveling in the Fall/Spring (and, of course, Winter!) because it can get a bit chilly with the wind blowing off Lake Superior. But my goodness, it is a breathtaking sight to gaze out over the timeless whitecaps and out to the bustling and cozy city of Bayfield while you’re on your way to a grand Island adventure.

Madeline Island Ferry Line Rates

Here is a general overview of the Madeline Island Ferry Line rates as of Spring 2024 to give you an idea for your travel. There are more details to have in mind, so please take a moment to visit their website before making plans for your super fun adventure! Below are the rates for individual passengers, which do not include if you were to bring a vehicle/bike on board.

Under 5 Years: Free

6-11 Years: $4 (One Way), $8 (Round Trip)

12 Years & Older: $9 (One Way), $18 (Round Trip)

For more in-depth details about the auto/bicycle fees for Madeline Island Ferry Line, please visit their website!

Big Bay State Park Address & Directions

As mentioned above, in order to get to Big Bay State Park, you’ll need to take a Ferry Ride (estimated to be around 25 minutes, depending on the season and weather conditions) to Madeline Island from Bayfield. I would suggest paying the extra fee to bring your car along since Big Bay State Park is about a 13-minute drive from the Ferry Line.

It’s also really handy to have your car if you’re camping on Madeline Island, so you have the freedom to drive into town and go out to eat or dawdle around. And if you are camping, don’t forget to pick the best camping pillow from our handy guide. Alas, if you’re staying at a hotel close to the Ferry, you could get away with a bike/bike rental if you’d like, and there are even moped rentals available!

Below are the written directions from the Ferry Line to Big Bay State Park, and also Big Bay State Park’s address and map.

Ferry Line to Big Bay State Park Directions

• Head southeast on 9th St/Le Seur St toward Co Hwy H
• Turn right at the 1st cross street onto Co Hwy H
• Turn left onto Co Hwy H/Chebomnicon Rd
• Continue to follow Co Hwy H
• Continue straight onto Hagen Rd
• The destination will be on the left!

Big Bay State Park Address

2402 Hagen Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Big Bay State Park Features

According to Big Bay State Park’s website, their hours remain from 6 A.M. to 11 P.M. year-round, and for all state parks, you must have a State Parks sticker to enter. Once you’ve made your camping reservations or purchased your admission and you’ve entered the park, an oasis of miles of Lake Superior shore, big green hiking trails, a lovely mile-long boardwalk, and outstanding sandstone bluffs await your eager eyes.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Big Bay State Park is 2,350 acres, including a 1.5-mile boardwalk, a 1.5-mile beach, and 4 unique hiking trails. Along with activities like camping and having a good old-fashioned campfire, picnic areas for a peaceful lunch or group gathering, and an array of winter activities, you can also take a trip to the beach and experience a dip and a glide on Lake Superior in your boat, kayak, canoe, or swimming!

It should be noted that Big Bay State Park does not allow campfires or pets on its beach, and there is no boat launch available on the beach. They do have a beach wheelchair for those in need of assistance. And if you don’t feel like lugging your own Kayak along for the trip, no worries, you can rent a Kayak at the park.

Psst…are you looking for the hunting and trapping details? Discover more about Big Bay State Park’s hunting and trapping guidelines here.

Hiking Trails at Big Bay State Park

If you’re a lover of hiking or you’re looking to give it a whirl, Big Bay State Park’s 4 unique hiking trails, spanning across 7 miles, is one heck of a Wisconsin Hiking Bucket List item! Please keep in mind that bikes are not allowed on the hiking trails, just the soles of your feet.

Below is a brief list of the hiking trails and their mileage at Big Bay State Park, and I encourage you to check out their website to read the detailed descriptions of each one!

• Bay View Trail
  • 1.3 Miles (Loop 3.1 Miles)
• Boardwalk Trail
  • 1.5 Miles (Loop 3.5 Miles)
• Lagoon Ridges Trail
  • 2.6 Miles
• Point Trail
  • 1.7 Miles

There are lots of critters, birds, and plant life to take in when you’re on the trail at Big Bay State Park. So be sure to bring a baggie with you to throw away your trash or pick up trail trash along the way, and take some time to embrace the beautiful landscape and wildlife around you.

Fun Spots on Madeline Island

There’s an abundance of fun, relaxing, enjoyable, and memorable activities to experience on Madeline Island (La Pointe); to name each and everyone would be a humungous list! With that being said, I’ll cover a few landmarks and leave the rest for you to dawdle around and explore for yourself. Sometimes, the best parts of an adventure are the surprises we don’t see coming.

Joni’s Beach

“Great little free park perfect for kids. A little playground, nice sandy beach, and a sturdy pier to complete the picture. It can be somewhat loud and wet when the wind comes off the lake but that’ll keep the bugs away, too. There’s a parking lot for maybe a dozen cars, and street parking is also available. The park is in easy walking distance from anywhere in La Pointe.” – Dirk N

Apostle Islands Kayaks

“Worth every penny, and reasonably priced. The owner is a local who has been doing this tour for years, and kayaking many more before that. He is intentional in everything – from how he interacts with everyone, to the kayaking lessons he gives, to the planned stops along the tour, all the photos he takes along the way to help you remember your experience, and more. Stops on the tour include a beach and a swim, sea caves, and a place to cliff jump. Sometimes you pay for an experience and feel like you didn’t get your money worth – that’s not the case with this tour. It was an awesome experience that we’d do again in a heartbeat. Plus, kid friendly, and a limited number of participants on each tour means you get to know the people you’re with. We had a great experience all around – would recommend to anyone looking for a kayak tour in the area.” – Erika N

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

“Howdy, island adventurers! I recently had the pleasure of stumbling upon the one-of-a-kind Tom’s Burned Down Cafe on Madeline Island, Wisconsin, and let me tell ya, it was a quirky experience like no other. Now, let’s start with the name itself – Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. Yes, you read that right. This place is literally a bar that was once burned down and then creatively rebuilt with salvaged materials, giving it a unique and eccentric charm. The atmosphere is laid-back, with a funky mishmash of decorations that’ll have you scratching your head in wonder. The drinks? Well, they might not be the most sophisticated or refined, but boy, are they strong! It’s the kind of place where you order a simple beer or a classic mixed drink and enjoy it for what it is. The service is as relaxed as the island life, with friendly bartenders who are always up for a chat. Now, this place isn’t for everyone – if you’re looking for a fancy cocktail lounge, look elsewhere. But if you’re up for a quirky, offbeat bar experience that captures the true spirit of Madeline Island, then Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is the spot for you. So embrace the unconventional, grab a drink, and enjoy the peculiar ambiance of this island gem. Cheers to the unexpected! ” – N.J. S

Madeline Island Museum

“Wonderful museum! Amazing to see all the history of the island. Rob made the experience even better with his knowledge and stories he shared with us! Our two kids also enjoyed it!” – Holly R

Beach Club on Madeline Island

“The food is really good! I highly recommend the chicken sandwich and seafood chowder. You go in and order yourself, you have a number you put on your table, and if it’s nice, snag a table outside by the water! Cute ducks and boats to watch. The food is really worth the price!” – S S

Mission Hill Coffee House

“What an incredible staff. They make the best chai tea in town. On a deeper level, I love their ‘pay it forward’ board that allows customers to chip in to buy someone else’s drink. What a wonderful, community forward sentiment. Also, the best gluten-free options in town! More places should follow their exceptional lead.” – David G

Grampa Tony’s on Madeline Island

“An excellent spot on Madeline Island and a great first stop off the ferry. A good variety of outdoor, patio, and indoor seating. Pizza was delicious and served in a timely manner. Staff was helpful and friendly. Ice cream was delicious ” – Jacob P

There’s more fun on Madeline Island to be had aside from these awesome local businesses. Take a trip and adventure for yourself to see the neat shops, scenic trails, and beautiful local art this amazing Apostal Island on Lake Superior has to offer!

When trying to choose things to do around Bayfield Wisconsin, I hope exploring Big Bay State Park and Madeline Island make your list! Because there are so many nooks and crannies to check out, memories to create, and pieces of yourself to find.