Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands & Northwoods Road Trip
Thinking about summer?
This loop through the Apostle Islands and the Northwoods is the kind of trip that slows you down. Pine forests, cold lake air, sandstone cliffs, and small towns where no one seems to be in a rush—it’s simple, scenic, and grounding in the best way.
Start in Bayfield
Bayfield is a gentle place to begin. Lake Superior sets the tone immediately—wide, moody, and humbling. From here, you can explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, known for its sea caves, kayaking routes, and ferry-accessible islands.
If the weather cooperates, paddling the sandstone caves is unforgettable. If it doesn’t, even a long walk along the shoreline feels restorative.
Wander into the woods: Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest
As you head inland, the landscape softens into endless forest. This stretch is about quiet hikes, roadside pull-offs, and that deep-green feeling you only get beneath tall trees.
There’s no single “must-do” here—and that’s the point. Choose a trail, walk until it feels right, then turn back.
Waterfalls + space to breathe at Copper Falls State Park
Copper Falls brings movement back into the trip. Short trails lead to waterfalls, river bends, and overlooks that feel surprisingly dramatic.
It’s an easy stop that works well for families and anyone who wants beauty without a long hike.
Small-town pauses: Minocqua & Rhinelander
These Northwoods towns are casual, friendly, and unpretentious. Think lakeside dinners, early mornings, and shops that close when the owners feel like it.
They’re ideal places to rest, reset, and plan the next leg without overthinking it.
End with water again in Door County
Door County feels like a soft landing. Shorelines, lighthouses, quiet beaches, and just enough polish after days in the woods.
It’s a lovely place to end the loop—or to linger longer if you have the time.
Why this trip works
This road trip isn’t about doing everything. It’s about:
Letting nature set the pace
Trading packed itineraries for open space
Finding beauty in places that don’t try too hard
It’s especially well-suited for:
Families who want room to roam
Women traveling together
Anyone craving a quieter kind of adventure
Planning help
If this route is calling your name but you don’t want to piece it together yourself, I can help plan custom road trips and small-group travel that feel doable and unrushed.
→ Travel Services
And if you’re curious what we actually pack for trips like this—layers, walking shoes, lake days and all—
→ WildHer Travel Essentials
