P.J. McDonough
Vernon Hills, IL
(I don't think I have an e-mail address)

Paddler's paradise--the limestone formations of Wisconsin's Apostle Islands

The jumping-off point for the islands is Bayfield, Wisconsin, about 90 miles east of Duluth and home to the headquarters for the 42,000-acre national lakeshore. Put in at the dock at Little Sand Bay and paddle three miles out to the campsites on Sand Island. From there, chart a cautious 20-mile trip that hops from Sand to York Island, then Raspberry, then Oak, and back to the mainland, with the longest open-water crossing no more than two and a half miles. Conveniently, you'll find campsites on all the islands except Raspberry. Free permits are available at the national lakeshore headquarters (715-779-3397), and camping is permitted at any of the designated primitive tent sites on the islands and along 12 miles of the mainland coast.

As for outfitters, Trek & Trail in Bayfield (800-354-8735) can set you up for three days in a fiberglass single or double kayak ($120 and $175, respectively; $30 and $40 for each additional day). If you haven't already done so, you'll need to take their three-hour basic safety course ($40 per person) before heading out. If you're looking to go with a group, sign onto one of their three-day guided trips. You'll paddle to five of the Apostles, covering about 40 miles total, for $309 per person, including all equipment and meals. For more information, check out "The Flatland's Private Big Blue" in the Destinations section of our September 1995 issue.