15 GREAT things to do in Bayfield County this Summer

If Bayfield County, Wisconsin isn’t on your Midwest Bucket List I’m not sure what is. This stunning County sits on a small Wisconsin peninsula that juts out into Lake Superior. The peninsula is full of beautiful hikes and waterfalls, sandy beaches, great restaurants, and of course – it’s home to the Apostle Island National Lakeshore. I have created this guide: 15 Great things to do in Bayfield County this Summer to help you plan your next adventure!

Wisconsin’s Apostle Island National Lakeshore consists of 22 islands that surround the peninsula. The Apostle Islands are made up of sandstone that over time have eroded into spectacular cliffs and caves. On the banks of many of the islands are historic lighthouses that draw visitors from all over the country.

We spent 3 full days exploring and I feel that this was the PERFECT length of time. We were able to see the town of Bayfield, spend time on Madeline Island, and explore less popular places throughout the peninsula.

In alphabetical order here are 15 GREAT things to do in Bayfield County this Summer!

Adventure Club Brewing

Adventure Club Brewing is located on the outskirts of the town of Bayfield. The brewery and adjacent outdoor store are a fun place to stop for a drink. In the summer tons of picnic tables and twinkly lights are spread across the lawn.

My Order: Pretty Flowers Saison – a very tangy and summery brew!

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Apfelhouse Cidery

Apfelhouse Cidery is tucked in the hills just South of town. This cidery (Hauser’s Superior View Farm) has been family-owned for five generations; cider is produced primarily from apples grown on the farm. The red barn and tasting house at the heart of the farm have incredible views of Lake Superior

While we visited we had the opportunity to tour the establishment and sample some fresh cider. The Tart Cherry Apple Cider was my favorite!

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Apostle Island Cruises

Cruising around the Apostle Islands is one thing you HAVE to consider adding to your itinerary. Apostle Islands Cruises offer a variety of non-stop cruises, shuttles, tours, and more! The Grand Tour (which I highly recommend) has 3 different departure times throughout the day and into the evening.

While visiting we partook in the Grand Tour which lasted about 3 hours. We had the opportunity to see many of the islands with fantastic views of the Lakeshore. While cruising through Lake Superior we saw the Raspberry and Devil’s Island Lighthouses, sailboats, and beautiful caves and rock formations.

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Apostle Islands Kayak Tours

Although we didn’t have the opportunity to do an Apostle Island Kayak Tour, this is top of my list for next time we visit. There are several companies in different areas of the island that offer partial, full-day, or overnight kayak trips. A few of them include:

• Bayfield Kayak
• Trek & Trail
• Lost Creek Adventures
• Red Cliff Tours

It’s important to note that kayaking on Lake Superior can be very dangerous. It is not recommended to explore without a guide unless you’re skilled, experienced, and familiar with the area.

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Bark Bay Slough State Natural Area

Bark Bay Slough State Natural Area is a magical area on the West side of the peninsula. It’s a small oasis protected from the waters of Bark Bay and Lake Superior. This 28- acre lagoon is the perfect place to enjoy native plants and wildlife.

We got to Bark Bay Slough State Natural Area around 6 am for sunrise. We spent about an hour paddle boarding the calm water; this was the perfect way to start the day!

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Big Bay State Park

Big Bay State Park is located on Madeline Island (accessible by the Madeline Island Ferry – see below). This Wisconsin State Park has stunning trails along 4 miles of the shoreline and includes a boardwalk that connects it to Big Bay Town Park.

We parked at the Trailheads for Point Loop Trail and Bayview Trail. We headed North on Bayview Trail (1.3 miles) and were treated to views of Lake Superior and the Lakeshore rock. About a mile along the trail there was a large group of people cliff jumping. This was my first time having the opportunity to do something like this and I could not get enough!

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For another incredible Lake Superior Adventure be sure to read my related post:

Visiting Minnesota’s North Shore: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

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Big Bay Town Park

As previously mentioned Big Bay Town Park and Big Bay State Park are connected by a 1 mile boardwalk. This is a great place to break for lunch while visiting Madeline Island. The park also offers rentals for exploring Big Bay Lagoon; there are kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards available for $5-$10.

Exploring the Lagoon at Big Bay Town Park was one of the highlights of our trip. We rented a canoe and were able to paddle the calm waters for about 30 minutes. After canoeing we walked down the boardwalk and were able to see tons of sailboats in Lake Superior.

While we were there we drove separately to Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park, but you could easily access both from either side.

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The Cranberry over Superior

The Cranberry over Superior is located in the small town of Herbster, Wisconsin. They have a full menu of American food and a full bar with great local options (including classic Spotted Cow!). This restaurant is classic and cozy with GREAT views of Lake Superior.

I can confidently recommend The Cranberry over superior because we ate there two of the three nights we visited! I highly suggest ordering food for pick up and taking it down to the beach at Herbster Park.

My Order: On the first night I ordered the “Oakie Style” Burger (two 1/4 on ground beef patties, shaved onions, American cheese, pickle slices, and special sauce on a brioche bun). This burger was AMAZING, I swear I still have dreams about it. The second night we picked up appetizers and brought them back to our cabin. The Spotted Cow Battered Cheese Curds, the Crispy Buffalo Brussel Sprouts, and the Artichoke Dip are all great options!

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Houghton Falls State Natural Area

The Houghton Falls State Natural Area is a short 15 minute drive from the town of Bayfield. Houghton Falls is an easy 1.3 mile out and back trail. If you visit in the spring or during a rainy season there is a small river that winds along the trails. At the end of the trail there are beautiful views of the sandstone cliffs at Lake Superior; this is a great spot to swim!

This hike was quick and easy and we were delighted with the beautiful views of Lake Superior! We spent about 45 minutes exploring Houghton Falls Trail. Unfortunately we visited during a dry season so there was no river or falls to be found.

HERE is the AllTrails link for Houghton Falls Trail.

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Lost Creek Falls

Lost Creek Falls is located on the West side of the peninsula near the small town of Cornucopia. The falls are 8 feet tall and make for a picturesque view and great spot for photos. The trail is 2.2 miles out and back, and considered a moderate trek.

I loved exploring Lost Creek Falls, we visited early in the morning and had the falls completely to ourselves. For this hike I would suggest wearing good shoes as this is a more rocky trek.

HERE is the AllTrails link for Lost Creek Falls Trail.

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Madeline Island

If you make it to Bayfield County you have to budget some time for exploring Madeline Island. Madeline Island is the largest of the Apostle Islands and home to the small and quaint town of La Pointe.

While we were in Bayfield County we spent time exploring La Pointe, stopped at a cute dock for some photos, hit Big Bay Town Park & Big Bay State Park, and had a sandwich from Grampa Tony’s.

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Madeline Island Ferry

Not everyone would consider the ferry to be a fun activity, but this was my first time being on one and I had a blast! In the summer (and months where the water is open), the ferry travels from Bayfield to Madeline Island and back 10-15 times per day. Tickets can be purchased either one-way or as a road trip and costs are for vehicles and passengers individually.

For more information on the Madeline Island Ferry CLICK HERE. Tickets cannot purchased in advance but it suggested that you arrive early in order to ensure you board at your desired time.

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Meyer’s Beach

Meyer’s Beach is one place that you have to stop while visiting Bayfield County, Wisconsin. This sandy beach is a great place for a relaxing dinner, to enjoy the water, and to launch sea kayaks.

While visiting we had lunch on the beach- a cute charcuterie board that we made with local items we had collected over the previous few days. This is the perfect spot for a break before embarking on the Meyer’s Beach Sea Cave Trail.

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Meyer’s Beach Sea Cave Trail

Meyer’s Beach Sea Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes on the peninsula. This moderate trail has incredible views of the lake, and treats hikers to observe several different cool and unique rock formations along the way. Over the course of the 4.6 mile out and back trail, there are five specific things to see: first point, crevasse, keyhole, garage, and bowl – be sure to keep an eye out while hiking!

I would suggest budgeting 2-3 hours for this hike. There are many awesome spots to see the sea caves from land!

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Wonderstate Coffee

Wonderstate Coffee has many locations around Wisconsin, one of which is in the small town of Bayfield. We stopped here during 2 of our 3 days for a Salted Caramel Cold Brew and I can’t recommend it enough! This is the perfect way to fuel your adventures in Bayfield County, Wisconsin!

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Bayfield County, Wisconsin has been one of my favorite Midwest trips. This small Northern Wisconsin peninsula is full of wonderful things to do and see. I hope my guide: 15 Great things to do in Bayfield County this Summer has you planning your next adventure!

15 Great things to do in Bayfield County this Summer Map

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This was my first time exploring Wisconsin, but be sure to check out my Minnesota Guides for other travel ideas!

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