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National Lakeshore

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Park ClosureFeb 18, 2026

Ice caves are CLOSED due to unstable ice conditions.

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Tree-covered red cliffs meet greenish blue water, in a bowl shape.

Hike or paddle to views of the sea caves along the mainland unit of the park.

Photo: NPS Photo / M. Carlson

About

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located at the northern tip of Wisconsin's Bayfield Peninsula, features 21 stunning islands, a scenic 12-mile shoreline along Lake Superior, and is located within the ancestral homeland of the Ojibwe people. Established in 1970, the park showcases picturesque sea caves, sandy beaches, and the largest collection of lighthouses in the National Park system.

Activities

BoatingMotorized BoatingSailingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingGroup CampingFishingFreshwater FishingGuided ToursBoat TourHikingHunting and GatheringHuntingPaddlingCanoe or Kayak Camping

Directions

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is located in northern Wisconsin along the shores of Lake Superior. The Lakeshore has several entrance points, with much of its area accessible primarily by water.

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Weather

Lake Superior is renowned for its cold temperatures, rough seas, fog, and sudden squalls. Boaters and paddlers should monitor marine weather forecasts and be constantly alert to changing conditions. Average daytime high temperatures range from 60 degrees Fahrenheit in May, to the upper 80s in mid-summer, to the mid-60s in September. Average lows vary from 40 degrees in May, to the upper 50s in mid-summer, to 50 degrees in September. Average water temperatures in May and June are only in the 40s.

News

Apostle Islands ice caves expected to open Feb. 16 if conditions remain stable
Feb 14, 2026

Apostle Islands ice caves expected to open Feb. 16 if conditions remain stable

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is expected to open the ice caves near Meyers Beach for visitation beginning on Feb. 16, 2026, if current ice conditions remain stable.

Kayaking
Junior Ranger Program
SCUBA Diving
Snowshoeing
Swimming
Freshwater Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs