Lakescapes information

Lakescapes offers ecoventures ranging from 2 hours to all day trips on and around the Apostle Islands. Tours provide participants with the excitement and adventure of traveling aboard “Coaster”, a 22 FT Zodiac PRO 650 while learning about the natural and cultural history of Lake Superior and this spectacular archipelago of islands on the world’s largest freshwater lake. The vessel is equipped with a 150 HP four cycle engine, VHF marine radio and GPS navigation system and skippered by a USCG licensed pilot with over 30 years of experiences on Lake Superior. Whether your interests are sightseeing, photography, birding, lighthouses, shipwrecks, sea caves, geology or exploring island interiors for old growth forests, bogs and rare flora and fauna. Use your imagination and tell us what you would like in a tour or we can tailor an experience that fits your budget and interests based on our extensive knowledge of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

Fees: $100/hr with a two hour minimum. Maximum of 6 passengers.

LAKESCAPES TOUR SAMPLER:

SEA CAVES/SAND ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE TOUR (3 Hours)

The focus of this tour is the exploration of the most extensive complex of sea caves and arches in the Apostle Islands. Ancient glaciers and Lake Superior formed this labyrinth of sea caves over thousands of years each with a unique shape, color and sound. Our return route will take us past Eagle Island bird sanctuary where sightings include cormorants, herring gulls, eagles, osprey, loons and other waterfowl. The final stop on our adventure will be the historic Sand Island lighthouse built in 1881 and considered by many one of the most beautiful lighthouses on Lake Superior. (Cost: $300 Maximum 6 passengers)

Stockton Island/Julian Bay (4 Hours)

Julian Bay’s crescent shape, sparkling water and two mile long sand beach make this one of our most popular destination tours. Upon arrival we will go ashore and explore the surrounding sand dunes and wetlands while enjoying the spectacular scenery and tranquility of this bay. The route to Stockton Island will take us past Basswood and Hermit Islands and their visible historic brownstone quarries. A stop at Manitou Island and a restored fishing camp offers a glimpse of life as a commercial fishing family in the early 1900’s. Throughout our journey island shorelines reveal hidden coves, towering pine, secluded beaches and much more creating a memorable day on Lake Superior. (Cost: $400 Maximum 6 passengers)

For more information call 218-349-0420/Email: Lakescapesinfo@aol.com or write Lakescapes LLC 921 Manypenny Ave. Bayfield WI 54814.

Living Adventure Inc. Information

Looking for more adventure? Living Adventure Inc. provides professionally guided sea kayaking tours ranging from half day to multi-day trips in the Apostle Islands. These trips slow things down and allow you to settle into the rhythm and splendor of the Apostle Islands and the Big Lake. By day you will paddle by stunning shorelines, sea caves, beaches, and wildlife. The evening will offer a sumptuous dinner around the campfire and an opportunity to explore island interiors before retiring to your camp under the stars.

LIVING ADVENTURES TOUR SAMPLER:

Wind, Sand & Stars – 2 day

Our 2-day sea kayaking trip is a perfect introduction to the world of sea kayaking and kayak camping. This is just the right amount of time to immerse in the outdoors and recapture the spirit of your adventuresome self. First time paddlers learn a range of skills and safety considerations that allow you to feel comfortable embarking on your own future trips. Experienced paddlers fine tune skills and explore subjects such as navigation, leadership and decision making on the water.

The weekend starts with a morning session of trip orientation and basic sea kayaking instruction that includes strokes and rescues. Prepare to get wet! Then we’ll spoil you right off the bat with one of our outstanding lunches. Next we’ll pack up the kayaks and head off across the water to our island destination for the night. Set up camp, enjoy a great dinner and a wonderful night’s sleep away from it all. The second day starts with fresh coffee and breakfast and then we pack up the kayaks once again and head out for another great day of paddling. Plan to return to Living Adventures Center around 3:00pm on the last day.

Cost: $279 (plus tax), offered most weekends late June – September 4

Family and all-women trips available as well.

Beaches, Waves and Caves – 3 day

This hallmark 3-day weekend adventure is the backbone of Living Adventure overnighters. The trip includes all of the great features of the Wind, Sand & Stars trip described above plus one more great day. In this full spectrum paddling experience you will have the opportunity to visit several islands and enjoy a heightened sense of ‘being out there’ on Lake Superior. The extra day allows time for in-depth exploration of shoreline features and inland forests. By day three you will slide fluidly into your kayak and feel like you never want to leave!

Cost: $ 399 (plus tax), offered most weekends late June – September 4

For more information visit www.livingadventure.com or call toll free 1-866-779-9503.