- Joined
- Aug 23, 2016
- Messages
- 104
Another trip to the Apostle Islands. This time without Stacy--she was having shoulder issues and didn't feel up to it. We definitely missed her. But, as Ken said, at least it will be a more relaxed trip since we won't have to worry about keeping up with Stacy!
Click here to view on CalTopo
Day 1 Drive to Red Cliff and paddle to Quarry Bay, Stockton Island
![1720555592164.jpeg 1720555592164.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132682-9b147fd7b9b5d497808088fd3be07a07.jpg)
We put in at the Legendary Waters Casino on the Red Cliff Indian Reservation again. There was a last-minute crisis, however, as they no longer allow you to launch kayaks and park over night--used to be a reasonable fee for this. But they said if we paid $32 per night for camping they would allow it. Since we had driven up from Madison that morning and still had a 10 mile paddle to our first camp we didn't have time to investigate other options. We coughed up the cash.
![1720555659781.jpeg 1720555659781.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132683-2fad571dd1363c317b4a980a9343fb6a.jpg)
Great weather for paddling. We made good time but by the time we got there and got camp set up we were eating dinner in the dark. Probably a good thing in the end. The mosquitoes were absolutely horrible and it cooled off just enough as we were eating dinner that we were able to take our headnets off. Nothing quite like trying to eat while wearing a headnet.
Day 2 Hiking on Stockton Island
![1720556209583.jpeg 1720556209583.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132685-1e94bb902ace6d63bc8c7a1df2222d37.jpg)
We hiked across the island an area of beautiful beaches and a large lagoon and bog.
![1720556291627.jpeg 1720556291627.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132686-59dcc317a8d6ef3a44317dab6a925e3e.jpg)
![1720557195610.jpeg 1720557195610.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132691-96b133cc0bbbd52cd04fa7602355ce63.jpg)
Lots of ladyslippers in the sandy soil.
![1720556336883.jpeg 1720556336883.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132687-30315e52d521bffefc5f5d828c7b17e3.jpg)
Pitcher plants in the bog
![1720556395533.jpeg 1720556395533.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132688-d4ec08c9cf5056da92dd6209705c31a8.jpg)
Tannic bog water mixing with Lake Superior. You can just barely see the opening to the lagoon ahead. I got into quicksand wading across the inlet and got pretty wet.
![1720557074638.jpeg 1720557074638.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132690-bf6766a77a3e6e218905fa9f221c90b8.jpg)
Lagoon on the left, Lake Superior on the right. You can really see how the dunes keep the lagoon and lake separate.
![1720557638477.jpeg 1720557638477.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132692-f8cd15d927e4ba7154ed622ab5521cd8.jpg)
Mystery tracks on the beach. Later we saw an otter. We think these are otter tracks.
![1720557691681.jpeg 1720557691681.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132693-5cafed683a98eae25a3d00f35a31a14f.jpg)
There are lots of bears on the islands but we have hardly ever seen any. All the islands have at least transient bear populations. Amazing considering they would have to swim miles of open water to get to any of the islands.
![1720558076430.jpeg 1720558076430.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132694-42c4568ff2d0462d6a8b20de93390cdd.jpg)
More island flora
![1720555821012.jpeg 1720555821012.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132684-88853333cb79792b021b217f1c33e9ee.jpg)
Ken making a commercial for Deep Woods Off. The mosquitoes were bad this year but most of the time we were in camp we had decent wind to keep them down so we didn't suffer too badly.
The established campsites in the Apostle Islands are set up nicely. They all have bear boxes; most have picnic tables. Scalloped potatoes for dinner tonight. Ken left the dried potatoes soaking all day. Here he's chopping onions and garlic.
Day 3 Paddle to Outer Island
![1720558262371.jpeg 1720558262371.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132695-c6ab84a55dc1c9345ae98c115af091bb.jpg)
Off to Outer Island next. We had some light rain but no wind to speak of.
![1720558380176.jpeg 1720558380176.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132696-db98ecce0a73c5e2fad5be5081b40506.jpg)
Waterfall on small blackwater stream. The tannins gave the waterfall a strange color.
![1720572870743.jpeg 1720572870743.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132723-610f1001dfa6dfbafd95c5c47242928a.jpg)
Outer Island in the distance
![1720609460522.jpeg 1720609460522.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132728-6af4eed58d25cd514d7f1c0102d1d6fb.jpg)
It was still raining when we landed and the wind picked up significantly. The rain stopped just as we got the tarp set up. Fortunately, the wind continued and kept the mosquitoes down
![1720559943710.jpeg 1720559943710.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132699-f71e01855151c55d6f2f0a79f39e7a46.jpg)
We were absolutely starving and cooked up a huge pot of noodles for dinner.
![1720560269221.jpeg 1720560269221.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132701-68bb12a47fd7c9cdef238cddb9d61a01.jpg)
We walked around the sand spit area of Outer Island after dinner. Stockton Island, where we camped last night, is visible to the right
![1720560156478.jpeg 1720560156478.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132700-ea833054cca5005082ee33510f2a7619.jpg)
The campsite is on the right side of the spit down a ways along the trees.
Day 4 Paddle to Ironwood Island via Cat Island
Today turned out to be a good demonstration of Lake Superior weather. We had a windy morning at camp but the wind died and stayed calm for about half the day. Then it came up moderately out of the east. At some point in the late afternoon it switched to the west and increased significantly, then died down again at sunset. It was partly cloudy in the morning then overcast then raining on and off. It cleared up through the afternoon and was warm and sunny for a few hours. Then more storms rolled through with clearing again right around sunset.
Cold this morning and a little windy but no rain. Again, in camp, wind is our friend.
![1720573065119.jpeg 1720573065119.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132724-aa01890a2814ebc6499f6f45c8468524.jpg)
Looking across to Cat Island. The wind died just as we were getting in the boats to head out and we made the first half of the day with almost no wind. We paddled around to the northernmost beach on the west side of the Outer Island spit and took a pee break before heading across to Cat Island. I had noticed on the satellite imagery what appeared to be a nice beach on the east side of Cat so we went to check it out. The paddle to Cat is the longest open water crossing at 4 mi.
![1720573273898.jpeg 1720573273898.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132726-7c581660f131c61a0f69d2253778c9dd.jpg)
There were several rain showers on the way across. We could see and hear them coming from a good distance. One great thing about sea kayaking is that rain just doesn't matter. You are nicely buttoned up in your boat with your sprayskirt and a rain jacket over that. All your gear is in drybags in watertight compartments. The water just runs off while you paddle along.
![1720564068669.jpeg 1720564068669.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132705-a2e4453609abd95af9b482cc0c742d57.jpg)
We found our beach just as the weather started clearing.
![1720727458143.jpeg 1720727458143.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132771-4b58b0d1a1cf8e0ea9bd754c12ecb26e.jpg)
I don't think I have seen more interesting gray skies than on this trip
![1720564259570.jpeg 1720564259570.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132707-9f6a653bf1117f8ebca3a66a4418f5e3.jpg)
By the time we headed for the southern end of Cat Island it had almost completely cleared up.
![1720564446608.jpeg 1720564446608.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132708-ce786d3137e198008c733d99a22e53c2.jpg)
We stopped briefly at the Cat Island spit and then headed for tonight's camp at Ironwood Is. The wind came up again. Tailwind!
![1720564839354.jpeg 1720564839354.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132709-e8800f13fbdcb0e369c6ae4e000577d0.jpg)
It was warm and sunny at Ironwood so we took the opportunity to get in the water. It's Lake Superior in June so just run in and run out. In the time it took us to unload the boats the wind changed 180 degrees and increased to about 15 mph. We have really been lucking out with the wind on this trip.
![1720565295252.jpeg 1720565295252.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132710-546b4224b1174b5e0d973f2a509191ab.jpg)
Another of Chef Ken's creations.
![1720565854229.jpeg 1720565854229.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132712-cbffa8fa104fbe3ee1746f579ed9229f.jpg)
Before we finished cooking another set of storms came through. We got the tarp up ahead of the rain and enjoyed dinner in comfort. Very interesting light near sunset.
![1720566222300.jpeg 1720566222300.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132713-a06031a8e5fa7c9fb0c27b48bcc7f745.jpg)
![1720571802596.jpeg 1720571802596.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132720-2894fe4ddd44938931ec2b2fdc9d64d6.jpg)
And a nice sunset
Day 5 Short day to Rocky Island
![1720571994963.jpeg 1720571994963.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132721-93605f7351502911d32fd19eca5d5b68.jpg)
Wind came up over night. Would *probably* be safe to paddle today but we'd be fighting a horrible headwind. Wind was predicted to die down in late afternoon so we decided to just wait. Not a long day today so no problem.
![1720572197698.jpeg 1720572197698.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132722-f26c8adab63fbdfac994cbca716cea65.jpg)
At some point in the afternoon a couple of guys showed up in a powerboat. They had the campsite reserved for tonight. By then the wind had died down to a reasonable level so we loaded up and set out for Rocky Island. A few rain showers off in the distance.
![1720613985152.jpeg 1720613985152.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132729-b0891f5df48db2c96bcb9e6c0e94cedb.jpg)
There was a party of four at our campsite on Rocky. They were in the same position as we were, waiting for the wind to die down. They were really hoping no one would show up and they could just stay there another night. We dashed their hopes, I'm afraid. Those rain showers we saw while paddling across kept coming so we put up the tarp again.
![1720614088881.jpeg 1720614088881.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132730-8a7e9af425fa753b82c38d88e95a3ffa.jpg)
Ken's signature dish--chicken and dumplings.
![1720614308712.jpeg 1720614308712.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132731-44a46725487af33cd121e798afa4cbec.jpg)
Finally cleared up for the night and we got another rainbow
Day 6 Out to Devil's Island then to Bear Island
Any time you have a good weather window you should go see Devil's Island. It has nice sea cliffs/caves and a cool old lighthouse. But if the weather turns you can get in trouble fast. The weather for today looked perfect so we made the trip.
![1720621276921.jpeg 1720621276921.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132732-cb7597de8a9525e2441e3a4d381c8dda.jpg)
On the way to Devil's Island
![1720621501375.jpeg 1720621501375.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132733-05be93c6df6950e85c7436485ac9e730.jpg)
![1720621592928.jpeg 1720621592928.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132734-f09d6f457fb50d390e3c51f87ccaac3c.jpg)
There is a small artificial harbor, slowly being destroyed by storms, where you can find just enough shelter to land a kayak. We took a short break here then paddled around the island back to here. There is a hiking trail that leads to the lighthouse at the north end of the island. After paddling around the island we hiked across and had lunch at the lighthouse.
![1720634409431.jpeg 1720634409431.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132739-d0aab617cd1000cfad565b4112f57ea3.jpg)
Making our way up the east side of the island
![1720634727350.jpeg 1720634727350.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132741-faf0a73f966d37d6da367cb54732ad71.jpg)
Interesting rock formations on the north side. The waves were really strange here. Not large but they were reflecting off the cliffs and made it hard to let go of the paddle to take pictures.
![1720634954423.jpeg 1720634954423.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132742-96244dad87b244690d22bbe1f0bdafcc.jpg)
A bog in the center of the island. The white flowers are Labrador tea, a type of rhododendron
![1720635145443.jpeg 1720635145443.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132743-c311ae6240ea0d0ead9d2a68a387b45a.jpg)
Lighthouse keepers residence
![1720635193948.jpeg 1720635193948.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132744-7dd1486bd3b3866d43d615980aa4c645.jpg)
And the lighthouse. Not in use any more.
![1720635259701.jpeg 1720635259701.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132745-4a8ee3a24b7c0cc97ac9baab21a38bc4.jpg)
While we were there a tour boat came by.
![1720635591635.jpeg 1720635591635.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132746-e4b18356de39939f1afb123e15285ca1.jpg)
Headed out of the harbor. Bear Island up ahead
![1720635866777.jpeg 1720635866777.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132747-502a8afc2132c560652e0dba035faa0f.jpg)
I had seen this beach on the satellite image and wanted to visit. Ken had been here long ago but did not camp here. We had planned to camp here on previous trips but the beach is pretty exposed and the weather did not look good enough to chance it. The weather looked perfect this time so we made the trip.
![1720636135989.jpeg 1720636135989.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132748-db8971c2c0af9c087daaac078a1a38da.jpg)
When the park was first established there were summer homes on some of the islands including this one. The park service bought the owners out (owners had no choice in the matter) and the houses are slowly being reclaimed by nature.
![1720649999315.jpeg 1720649999315.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132753-c97e180acd398c2a076b7ab8f8dca522.jpg)
Walked past the beach to a rocky shoreline and found this interesting point.
Day 7 Paddle to Oak Island
![1720724714436.jpeg 1720724714436.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132764-be175a1164b5d9a6c172d644b9d36ecd.jpg)
Relatively short paddle to Oak Island today. Started off cool and gray again
![1720724868466.jpeg 1720724868466.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132765-7dd8098074255157202a5afac8b87d6d.jpg)
On the beach at Oak Island campsite. Bear and Devil's in the distance. We were camped on the far side of Bear Island, around the right side.
![1720726409522.jpeg 1720726409522.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132770-58cc1fc1eae6ba5b69d63c96410c0e4d.jpg)
Our campsite on Oak Is. Some rain showers again. I think we set up the tarp at every campsite this trip.
![1720725540697.jpeg 1720725540697.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132767-56cdfc048708bc89dce9ef37d64862d7.jpg)
From the lookout on Oak Island looking east. In the distance is Outer Island then Cat then Ironwood. Manitou Island is on the right. We did not go there this trip.
Day 8 Paddle back to Red Cliff
![1720725767230.jpeg 1720725767230.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132768-696630a71373c5073b2f91e8cbc11a24.jpg)
A sailboat dropped anchor last night. The area near our campsite is an excellent anchorage during southerly winds. The wind was predicted to be from the south last night and strengthening out of the south today. It looked like we were in for some work when we came out from behind Oak Island.
![1720725893572.jpeg 1720725893572.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132769-baef516fe103cc3011338889ab5e398f.jpg)
But here we are at the southern tip of Oak Island without a puff of wind to be seen! We took a very short break and got right back to paddling. We had almost a dead calm until maybe half a mile of Red Cliff. I think this was the easiest last day paddling ever.
Another great trip to the Apostles. We sure missed Stacy but look forward to paddling with her again in the future. The weather was great in the sense that we were only windbound for part of one day. We were able to do all the paddling we had hoped to do--something not ever guaranteed on Lake Superior! Writing this report I started thinking that we had a lot of rain. I guess we sort of did but except for our arrival on Outer Island we never had to set up or break camp in the rain. Paddling in the rain is a complete non-issue and we had the tarp for cooking and hanging out at camp. All in all hard to ask for better weather. Looking forward to next year!
Click here to view on CalTopo
Day 1 Drive to Red Cliff and paddle to Quarry Bay, Stockton Island
![1720555592164.jpeg 1720555592164.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132682-9b147fd7b9b5d497808088fd3be07a07.jpg)
We put in at the Legendary Waters Casino on the Red Cliff Indian Reservation again. There was a last-minute crisis, however, as they no longer allow you to launch kayaks and park over night--used to be a reasonable fee for this. But they said if we paid $32 per night for camping they would allow it. Since we had driven up from Madison that morning and still had a 10 mile paddle to our first camp we didn't have time to investigate other options. We coughed up the cash.
![1720555659781.jpeg 1720555659781.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132683-2fad571dd1363c317b4a980a9343fb6a.jpg)
Great weather for paddling. We made good time but by the time we got there and got camp set up we were eating dinner in the dark. Probably a good thing in the end. The mosquitoes were absolutely horrible and it cooled off just enough as we were eating dinner that we were able to take our headnets off. Nothing quite like trying to eat while wearing a headnet.
Day 2 Hiking on Stockton Island
![1720556209583.jpeg 1720556209583.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132685-1e94bb902ace6d63bc8c7a1df2222d37.jpg)
We hiked across the island an area of beautiful beaches and a large lagoon and bog.
![1720556291627.jpeg 1720556291627.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132686-59dcc317a8d6ef3a44317dab6a925e3e.jpg)
![1720557195610.jpeg 1720557195610.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132691-96b133cc0bbbd52cd04fa7602355ce63.jpg)
Lots of ladyslippers in the sandy soil.
![1720556336883.jpeg 1720556336883.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132687-30315e52d521bffefc5f5d828c7b17e3.jpg)
Pitcher plants in the bog
![1720556395533.jpeg 1720556395533.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132688-d4ec08c9cf5056da92dd6209705c31a8.jpg)
Tannic bog water mixing with Lake Superior. You can just barely see the opening to the lagoon ahead. I got into quicksand wading across the inlet and got pretty wet.
![1720557074638.jpeg 1720557074638.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132690-bf6766a77a3e6e218905fa9f221c90b8.jpg)
Lagoon on the left, Lake Superior on the right. You can really see how the dunes keep the lagoon and lake separate.
![1720557638477.jpeg 1720557638477.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132692-f8cd15d927e4ba7154ed622ab5521cd8.jpg)
Mystery tracks on the beach. Later we saw an otter. We think these are otter tracks.
![1720557691681.jpeg 1720557691681.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132693-5cafed683a98eae25a3d00f35a31a14f.jpg)
There are lots of bears on the islands but we have hardly ever seen any. All the islands have at least transient bear populations. Amazing considering they would have to swim miles of open water to get to any of the islands.
![1720558076430.jpeg 1720558076430.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132694-42c4568ff2d0462d6a8b20de93390cdd.jpg)
More island flora
![1720555821012.jpeg 1720555821012.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132684-88853333cb79792b021b217f1c33e9ee.jpg)
Ken making a commercial for Deep Woods Off. The mosquitoes were bad this year but most of the time we were in camp we had decent wind to keep them down so we didn't suffer too badly.
The established campsites in the Apostle Islands are set up nicely. They all have bear boxes; most have picnic tables. Scalloped potatoes for dinner tonight. Ken left the dried potatoes soaking all day. Here he's chopping onions and garlic.
Day 3 Paddle to Outer Island
![1720558262371.jpeg 1720558262371.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132695-c6ab84a55dc1c9345ae98c115af091bb.jpg)
Off to Outer Island next. We had some light rain but no wind to speak of.
![1720558380176.jpeg 1720558380176.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132696-db98ecce0a73c5e2fad5be5081b40506.jpg)
Waterfall on small blackwater stream. The tannins gave the waterfall a strange color.
![1720572870743.jpeg 1720572870743.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132723-610f1001dfa6dfbafd95c5c47242928a.jpg)
Outer Island in the distance
![1720609460522.jpeg 1720609460522.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132728-6af4eed58d25cd514d7f1c0102d1d6fb.jpg)
It was still raining when we landed and the wind picked up significantly. The rain stopped just as we got the tarp set up. Fortunately, the wind continued and kept the mosquitoes down
![1720559943710.jpeg 1720559943710.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132699-f71e01855151c55d6f2f0a79f39e7a46.jpg)
We were absolutely starving and cooked up a huge pot of noodles for dinner.
![1720560269221.jpeg 1720560269221.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132701-68bb12a47fd7c9cdef238cddb9d61a01.jpg)
We walked around the sand spit area of Outer Island after dinner. Stockton Island, where we camped last night, is visible to the right
![1720560156478.jpeg 1720560156478.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132700-ea833054cca5005082ee33510f2a7619.jpg)
The campsite is on the right side of the spit down a ways along the trees.
Day 4 Paddle to Ironwood Island via Cat Island
Today turned out to be a good demonstration of Lake Superior weather. We had a windy morning at camp but the wind died and stayed calm for about half the day. Then it came up moderately out of the east. At some point in the late afternoon it switched to the west and increased significantly, then died down again at sunset. It was partly cloudy in the morning then overcast then raining on and off. It cleared up through the afternoon and was warm and sunny for a few hours. Then more storms rolled through with clearing again right around sunset.
Cold this morning and a little windy but no rain. Again, in camp, wind is our friend.
![1720573065119.jpeg 1720573065119.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132724-aa01890a2814ebc6499f6f45c8468524.jpg)
Looking across to Cat Island. The wind died just as we were getting in the boats to head out and we made the first half of the day with almost no wind. We paddled around to the northernmost beach on the west side of the Outer Island spit and took a pee break before heading across to Cat Island. I had noticed on the satellite imagery what appeared to be a nice beach on the east side of Cat so we went to check it out. The paddle to Cat is the longest open water crossing at 4 mi.
![1720573273898.jpeg 1720573273898.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132726-7c581660f131c61a0f69d2253778c9dd.jpg)
There were several rain showers on the way across. We could see and hear them coming from a good distance. One great thing about sea kayaking is that rain just doesn't matter. You are nicely buttoned up in your boat with your sprayskirt and a rain jacket over that. All your gear is in drybags in watertight compartments. The water just runs off while you paddle along.
![1720564068669.jpeg 1720564068669.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132705-a2e4453609abd95af9b482cc0c742d57.jpg)
We found our beach just as the weather started clearing.
![1720727458143.jpeg 1720727458143.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132771-4b58b0d1a1cf8e0ea9bd754c12ecb26e.jpg)
I don't think I have seen more interesting gray skies than on this trip
![1720564259570.jpeg 1720564259570.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132707-9f6a653bf1117f8ebca3a66a4418f5e3.jpg)
By the time we headed for the southern end of Cat Island it had almost completely cleared up.
![1720564446608.jpeg 1720564446608.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132708-ce786d3137e198008c733d99a22e53c2.jpg)
We stopped briefly at the Cat Island spit and then headed for tonight's camp at Ironwood Is. The wind came up again. Tailwind!
![1720564839354.jpeg 1720564839354.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132709-e8800f13fbdcb0e369c6ae4e000577d0.jpg)
It was warm and sunny at Ironwood so we took the opportunity to get in the water. It's Lake Superior in June so just run in and run out. In the time it took us to unload the boats the wind changed 180 degrees and increased to about 15 mph. We have really been lucking out with the wind on this trip.
![1720565295252.jpeg 1720565295252.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132710-546b4224b1174b5e0d973f2a509191ab.jpg)
Another of Chef Ken's creations.
![1720565854229.jpeg 1720565854229.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132712-cbffa8fa104fbe3ee1746f579ed9229f.jpg)
Before we finished cooking another set of storms came through. We got the tarp up ahead of the rain and enjoyed dinner in comfort. Very interesting light near sunset.
![1720566222300.jpeg 1720566222300.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132713-a06031a8e5fa7c9fb0c27b48bcc7f745.jpg)
![1720571802596.jpeg 1720571802596.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132720-2894fe4ddd44938931ec2b2fdc9d64d6.jpg)
And a nice sunset
Day 5 Short day to Rocky Island
![1720571994963.jpeg 1720571994963.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132721-93605f7351502911d32fd19eca5d5b68.jpg)
Wind came up over night. Would *probably* be safe to paddle today but we'd be fighting a horrible headwind. Wind was predicted to die down in late afternoon so we decided to just wait. Not a long day today so no problem.
![1720572197698.jpeg 1720572197698.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132722-f26c8adab63fbdfac994cbca716cea65.jpg)
At some point in the afternoon a couple of guys showed up in a powerboat. They had the campsite reserved for tonight. By then the wind had died down to a reasonable level so we loaded up and set out for Rocky Island. A few rain showers off in the distance.
![1720613985152.jpeg 1720613985152.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132729-b0891f5df48db2c96bcb9e6c0e94cedb.jpg)
There was a party of four at our campsite on Rocky. They were in the same position as we were, waiting for the wind to die down. They were really hoping no one would show up and they could just stay there another night. We dashed their hopes, I'm afraid. Those rain showers we saw while paddling across kept coming so we put up the tarp again.
![1720614088881.jpeg 1720614088881.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132730-8a7e9af425fa753b82c38d88e95a3ffa.jpg)
Ken's signature dish--chicken and dumplings.
![1720614308712.jpeg 1720614308712.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132731-44a46725487af33cd121e798afa4cbec.jpg)
Finally cleared up for the night and we got another rainbow
Day 6 Out to Devil's Island then to Bear Island
Any time you have a good weather window you should go see Devil's Island. It has nice sea cliffs/caves and a cool old lighthouse. But if the weather turns you can get in trouble fast. The weather for today looked perfect so we made the trip.
![1720621276921.jpeg 1720621276921.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132732-cb7597de8a9525e2441e3a4d381c8dda.jpg)
On the way to Devil's Island
![1720621501375.jpeg 1720621501375.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132733-05be93c6df6950e85c7436485ac9e730.jpg)
![1720621592928.jpeg 1720621592928.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132734-f09d6f457fb50d390e3c51f87ccaac3c.jpg)
There is a small artificial harbor, slowly being destroyed by storms, where you can find just enough shelter to land a kayak. We took a short break here then paddled around the island back to here. There is a hiking trail that leads to the lighthouse at the north end of the island. After paddling around the island we hiked across and had lunch at the lighthouse.
![1720634409431.jpeg 1720634409431.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132739-d0aab617cd1000cfad565b4112f57ea3.jpg)
Making our way up the east side of the island
![1720634727350.jpeg 1720634727350.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132741-faf0a73f966d37d6da367cb54732ad71.jpg)
Interesting rock formations on the north side. The waves were really strange here. Not large but they were reflecting off the cliffs and made it hard to let go of the paddle to take pictures.
![1720634954423.jpeg 1720634954423.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132742-96244dad87b244690d22bbe1f0bdafcc.jpg)
A bog in the center of the island. The white flowers are Labrador tea, a type of rhododendron
![1720635145443.jpeg 1720635145443.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132743-c311ae6240ea0d0ead9d2a68a387b45a.jpg)
Lighthouse keepers residence
![1720635193948.jpeg 1720635193948.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132744-7dd1486bd3b3866d43d615980aa4c645.jpg)
And the lighthouse. Not in use any more.
![1720635259701.jpeg 1720635259701.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132745-4a8ee3a24b7c0cc97ac9baab21a38bc4.jpg)
While we were there a tour boat came by.
![1720635591635.jpeg 1720635591635.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132746-e4b18356de39939f1afb123e15285ca1.jpg)
Headed out of the harbor. Bear Island up ahead
![1720635866777.jpeg 1720635866777.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132747-502a8afc2132c560652e0dba035faa0f.jpg)
I had seen this beach on the satellite image and wanted to visit. Ken had been here long ago but did not camp here. We had planned to camp here on previous trips but the beach is pretty exposed and the weather did not look good enough to chance it. The weather looked perfect this time so we made the trip.
![1720636135989.jpeg 1720636135989.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132748-db8971c2c0af9c087daaac078a1a38da.jpg)
When the park was first established there were summer homes on some of the islands including this one. The park service bought the owners out (owners had no choice in the matter) and the houses are slowly being reclaimed by nature.
![1720649999315.jpeg 1720649999315.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132753-c97e180acd398c2a076b7ab8f8dca522.jpg)
Walked past the beach to a rocky shoreline and found this interesting point.
Day 7 Paddle to Oak Island
![1720724714436.jpeg 1720724714436.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132764-be175a1164b5d9a6c172d644b9d36ecd.jpg)
Relatively short paddle to Oak Island today. Started off cool and gray again
![1720724868466.jpeg 1720724868466.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132765-7dd8098074255157202a5afac8b87d6d.jpg)
On the beach at Oak Island campsite. Bear and Devil's in the distance. We were camped on the far side of Bear Island, around the right side.
![1720726409522.jpeg 1720726409522.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132770-58cc1fc1eae6ba5b69d63c96410c0e4d.jpg)
Our campsite on Oak Is. Some rain showers again. I think we set up the tarp at every campsite this trip.
![1720725540697.jpeg 1720725540697.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132767-56cdfc048708bc89dce9ef37d64862d7.jpg)
From the lookout on Oak Island looking east. In the distance is Outer Island then Cat then Ironwood. Manitou Island is on the right. We did not go there this trip.
Day 8 Paddle back to Red Cliff
![1720725767230.jpeg 1720725767230.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132768-696630a71373c5073b2f91e8cbc11a24.jpg)
A sailboat dropped anchor last night. The area near our campsite is an excellent anchorage during southerly winds. The wind was predicted to be from the south last night and strengthening out of the south today. It looked like we were in for some work when we came out from behind Oak Island.
![1720725893572.jpeg 1720725893572.jpeg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/132/132769-baef516fe103cc3011338889ab5e398f.jpg)
But here we are at the southern tip of Oak Island without a puff of wind to be seen! We took a very short break and got right back to paddling. We had almost a dead calm until maybe half a mile of Red Cliff. I think this was the easiest last day paddling ever.
Another great trip to the Apostles. We sure missed Stacy but look forward to paddling with her again in the future. The weather was great in the sense that we were only windbound for part of one day. We were able to do all the paddling we had hoped to do--something not ever guaranteed on Lake Superior! Writing this report I started thinking that we had a lot of rain. I guess we sort of did but except for our arrival on Outer Island we never had to set up or break camp in the rain. Paddling in the rain is a complete non-issue and we had the tarp for cooking and hanging out at camp. All in all hard to ask for better weather. Looking forward to next year!
Attachments
-
1720558531139.jpeg212.6 KB · Views: 1
-
1720562236313.jpeg754.6 KB · Views: 33
-
1720562347721.jpeg202.8 KB · Views: 2
-
1720562657540.jpeg344.9 KB · Views: 1
-
1720564170832.jpeg206 KB · Views: 1
-
1720565391378.jpeg118.5 KB · Views: 1
-
1720571785720.jpeg176.9 KB · Views: 1
-
1720573237314.jpeg248.3 KB · Views: 1
-
1720634456080.jpeg473.9 KB · Views: 1
-
1720649958145.jpeg346.2 KB · Views: 1
-
1720724450606.jpeg323.6 KB · Views: 1
-
1720724997329.jpeg531.9 KB · Views: 1
Last edited: