Wilderness Preserve · WI

Paddle Sports Guide

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve is a serene natural area located on Madeline Island in Lake Superior, offering a tranquil escape with its lush forests and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Preserve2,4004+ Trails

1970WILDERNESS PRESERVE

Designation

Wilderness Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

2,400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve is a serene natural area located on Madeline Island in Lake Superior, offering a tranquil escape with its lush forests and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Situated on Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands, the Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve provides a unique sanctuary for visitors looking to embrace the great outdoors. The preserve showcases a blend of hardwood and conifer forests, with habitats that support an array of wildlife including deer, eagles, and black bears. This area, steeped in Indigenous history and rich in natural beauty, offers trails for hiking and nature observation. Water activities are prominent due to its location, with opportunities to kayak, fish, and explore the vast waters of Lake Superior. The island's landscapes and varied ecosystems ensure an adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful yet engaging experience.

Notable Landscape Features

Iconic geological landmarks, alpine vantage points, and distinctive ecosystems in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve.

Feature 1

Big Bay Lagoon

A striking body of water with opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

Feature 2

Fragrant Islands Trail

A moderate hiking path rich in aromatic plants and scenic views.

Feature 3

Old Growth Forest

The preserve shelters a preserved section of ancient trees offering a glimpse into the region's ecological past.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Big Bay State Park – Offers impressive views of Lake Superior's shoreline✦ Eagle sightings – Popular for visitors interested in bird watching✦ Petrified Forest Trail – Showcases unique geological formations✦ Hidden beaches – Offers secluded spots along the lakeshore for quiet reflection

Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Iconic Trails & Natural Landmarks

Top Trails & Sights in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Discover summit paths, alpine loops, and natural wonders within this protected wilderness.

Moderate3.2

Point Trail

This trail provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding woodlands.

View Guide→

Easy1.5

Bog Boardwalk Trail

An accessible path through bog ecosystems with interpretive signs.

View Guide→

Challenging4.0

Mount Ashwabay Trail

Challenging pathways with expansive views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

View Guide→

Easy2.0

Fern Loop Trail

A loop through dense forest floors with a rich variety of fern species.

View Guide→

★ 8.7

Beach / Coastline

Big Bay State Park Adventure

Explore Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island. With 12 miles of trails, enjoy hiking, camping, and bird watching. Access via ferry; perfect for a spring to fall getaway. The park's sandy beach and stunning views of Lake Superior make for a serene escape.

La Pointe, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Discover the Tranquil Wilderness of Madeline Island

★ 7.8

Preserve / Conservation Area

Discover the Tranquil Wilderness of Madeline Island

Explore Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve in Wisconsin, a serene area known for hiking and kayaking. Observe ancient forests and diverse wildlife, offering a remote escape. Best visited in late spring to early fall.

La Pointe, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Nature's Escape: Iron Bridge Trail in Bayfield

★ 7.2

Trailhead

Nature's Escape: Iron Bridge Trail in Bayfield

Explore the Iron Bridge Trail near Bayfield, Wisconsin. Enjoy a hike through mixed forests along a calming stream. Perfect for birdwatching and photography, this trail is best visited in spring or fall for optimal scenery. A relaxed outing for local nature lovers.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Discover Brownstone Trail: A Bayfield Gem

★ 7.5

Trailhead

Discover Brownstone Trail: A Bayfield Gem

Explore Brownstone Trail near Bayfield, Wisconsin, an easy walk along Lake Superior's shores. Perfect for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography with minimal crowds. Enjoy scenic water views and cultural insights along this tranquil pathway.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

★ 7.2

Trailhead

Hiking the Big Ravine - West Rim Trail

Explore the Big Ravine - West Rim Trail in Bayfield, Wisconsin. A moderate trail with breathtaking vistas and varied terrain, it's ideal for adventure seekers and photographers. Enjoy stunning views and the tranquility of nature along this picturesque route.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Scenic Trails: Brownstone Trail, Bayfield

★ 6.5

Trailhead

Scenic Trails: Brownstone Trail, Bayfield

Explore Brownstone Trail in Bayfield, WI, a historic and easy path along Lake Superior. Ideal for hiking, biking, and bird watching. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery throughout your visit.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

★ 8.7

Island / Peninsula

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Explore the stunning Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, accessible by ferry from Bayfield, WI. Perfect for kayaking and winter ice cave exploration, this remote destination is popular in summer. Not wheelchair accessible.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Tranquil Trails: Frog Bay Tribal National Park

★ 8.4

Forest / Grove

Tranquil Trails: Frog Bay Tribal National Park

Explore Frog Bay Tribal National Park in Bayfield, WI. Enjoy easy hiking trails through an old-growth forest with views of Apostle Islands. Ideal for photographers and bird watchers seeking tranquility year-round.

Bayfield, WisconsinExplore Sight→

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Spotlight

Paddle Sports in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

View Full Park Guide

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve offers exceptional terrain and routes for paddle sports, featuring established access paths, scenic vistas, and protected wilderness territory.

Other Activities in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve:Hiking Camping Wildlife Viewing Fishing Photography

Explore Guide →

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, but ferry charges apply for transportation to the island.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.

Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.

Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.

Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).

Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Big Bay Town Park Campground

Located near a sandy beach with facilities like fire rings and picnic tables.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Primitive Camping Sites

Offers more isolated spots within the preserve for a rugged camping experience.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic desert basecamps surrounding the park.

Gateway Basecamp

La Pointe, Wisconsin, WI

La Pointe, WI, on Madeline Island, offers an escape to adventure with kayaking sea caves, hiking lush trails, and sailing Lake Superior. Ideal for explorers seeking unique outdoor experiences.

SummerExplore Town

Gateway Basecamp

Bayfield, Wisconsin, WI

Bayfield, WI, is a scenic gateway to adventure on Lake Superior. From kayaking around Apostle Islands to hiking trails in the national forest, it’s a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Summer and FallExplore Town

Gateway Basecamp

Ashland, Oregon, WI

Ashland, OR is known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and outdoor access to the Rogue Valley. Enjoy trails, kayaking, and skiing, with the Siskiyou Mountains as your backdrop.

Spring and SummerExplore Town