Free Topo Maps of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Download free topo maps of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Use the adjoining 7.5 minute quadrangle legend to locate the Wisconsin maps you need.

Adjoining 7.5' Quadrangle Legend

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is located in the state of Wisconsin. These beautiful islands with their old-growth forests have a rich cultural history. The Apostle Islands archipelago on Lake Superior was once the home of the Ojibwe people, as well as being home to later groups such as trappers, fishermen, loggers, farmers and quarriers. The name Apostle in all probability was an 18th century holy name designated by the Jesuits who first mapped this area; however, it does not signify the actual number of islands included in this grouping. These islands exude a wondrous landscape of multihued Precambrian sandstone, washed by the waves of Lake Superior, creating huge formations, sea caves, sand spits and tombolo reaching out towards other islands. Long Island was once surrounded by water; however a brutal November storm in the 1970s deposited sand on the spit between the shore and the island, creating a tombolo which in turn connected the island to the mainland. Many of the islands have shallow waters due to the continual washing of the sandstone by wave action. The numerous sea caves are a delight during the winter freeze, forming icicles, starbursts and other water forms on the ceilings and walls of the caves. Hiking over frozen portions of Lake Superior to see the caves is another favorite activity. There are over fifty miles of trails among the islands, some with spectacular views of the islands and the caves, with "Lakeshore Trail" offering mainlanders a good view of the caves. Kayaking and boating along with other water sports and camping are popular during the summers. Each of the islands is a habitat for wildlife, including a large population of black bears. They swim from island to island and can be found throughout the region. A cruise service is available for campers and for day trips; as well as for a guided tour of a lighthouse. The great concentration of 19th century lighthouses is one of the largest collections in the National Park System. There are also shipwrecks which can be viewed depending upon weather conditions. Divers must have a permit. There are many water sports including fishing and scuba diving, and there are many beaches to be enjoyed. There are a number of Visitor Centers available; the main center is in the city of Bayfield, where audiovisual presentations and exhibits covering the cultural and natural history of the Park are available. Information regarding self-guided lighthouse tours, camping and special programs are also available; as well as information on the fishery complex that the Park Service maintains as a museum, with artifacts from the past.