Basswood Island, the nearest to Bayfield of the Apostle Islands, is said to be the most lovely shaped of the archipelago due to its oval configuration. The island was once inhabited. Hiking trails lead through the old remains of a dairy farm which once supplied the Red Cliff community with butter, milk, and cheese. Old orchards, remnants of the island's farming era, will frame our trail as we make our way through the island's interior. Stands of virgin hemlock, oak, maple, and pine surround these trails that lead us to remains of one of the brownstone quarries for which the island is known. These quarries, found mainly on the south side of the island where the Lake Superior waters are rather deep, provided fireproof materials used to build the Milwaukee courthouse, the Bayfield County courthouse (now the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Headquarters building), the St. Paul Dispatch Building, and helped to rebuild Chicago after the “Great Chicago Fire.” Once less expensive building materials, such as steel, began to be used in the developing construction industry, the Basswood Island sandstone fell into disuse. Basswood Island itself was abandoned.

Today, trails and campsites are the only signs of civilized visitation on the island; however, mosquitos abound at varying times during the summer. So, when you make your visit to the island -- bring bug spray!

From the junction of Hwy's 2 and 13 on the outskirts of Ashland, WI, turn onto Hwy 13 North. Bayfield is 21 miles north of Ashland on Hwy 13. Once in Bayfield, Hwy 13 becomes Rittenhouse Avenue, the “main street” of Bayfield. Trek & Trail's main store, reservation center and outfitting center is located in the Boothe Cooprage on 7 Washington Ave. Next to the Madline Island Ferry.

A Few Other Considerations:

*Please make your guide aware of any pertinent medical conditions you may have -- i.e. allergies, medications you're taking, etc. If you have any questions concerning your personal fitness or your ability to participate, please be sure to consult your physician.

*We ask that all minors are accompanied by an adult on all of our tours and expeditions.

*Please remember that if you are late for a trip you are not the only one affected. Our trips are normally fully booked. Your promptness affects everyone’s allotted time on the water. Please plan accordingly.

*We cannot control the weather. Occasionally we are forced to alter our trip routes. Please be understanding.

*We recommend that all participants acquire travel insurance to cover emergency medical situations, evacuations and unforeseen last minute cancellations.

The morning of your trip you should be at Trek & Trail's outfitting center, located in the Old Cooperage building across from the Madeline Island Ferry Landing in Bayfield, at 8:45 a.m. Your trip will begin with an orientation to equipment, safety, and basic paddling skills. Double kayaks will be used to ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone. Trek & Trail may provide wetsuits for your outing, depending on the weather conditions.

Once you are acquainted with your kayak and gear, you'll paddle north along the shoreline, about 2 miles, to the Red Cliff Chippewa Reservation marina. From the marina we'll then make the 1 1/2 mile crossing to Basswood Island.

Arriving on Basswood, we'll beach the kayaks. After learning about some of the geology and history of the area, and Basswood Island, we'll eat lunch under the shade of a nice oak tree, or on a warm sandstone rock. We'll have plenty of time for exploring the island's extensive trails, its quarry, and farm ruins. Afterwards, we'll begin loading up the boats and paddle back to Bayfield, finishing our full-day trip at around 3:30 or 4 p.m.

Chances are be paddling through one of the splendid, sunny days which Lake Superior boasts. From experience, though, we know the weather conditions can vary greatly on any given day of a tour. For your safety and comfort you should come prepared by bringing the following:

___ Long underwear top (Synthetic works best)
___ Wind/Rain Jacket or paddling top
___ Shorts or pants ideally of the “quick-dry” variety
___ Footwear that you can get wet
___ Light Stocking Cap (if cold)
___ T-Shirt
___ Swimsuit
___ Sun Hat
___ Sunglasses
___ Water Bottle
___ Sunscreen

Trek & Trail Provides: Kayak, sprayskirt, paddle, PFD, paddle float, bilge pump, and farmer bill wetsuits (if needed).

We offer a 10 % discount for all Trek & Trail trip participants on general kayaking items (gear, clothing, supplies, etc.) that you might find useful while on the water. Ask about our participant merchandise discount packages: 800.354.8735