Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
sea caves of the Apostle Islands
Oak Island
OakIslandisthetallestofthechain,withsteep-sided250-footravinesetchedacrossitssur-
face and a maximum elevation approaching 500 feet—so tall it protruded above the post-
glacial lake that submerged the chain. Oak Island's 5,100 or so acres are the inverse of
StocktonIsland'sdevelopment.Rusticandtough,thisspunkyislandistheonecrowd-haters
should head for. There are only about 11 miles of trail, but it's a nice mishmash of leisurely
and unforgiving, and all great fun. Before modern upgrades, hikers could be lost for days
at a time wandering the minigorges. Not only is off-trail trekking possibly hazardous, but it
may be illegal, as some areas are sporadically off-limits to protect nesting eagles.
Historically ofinterestarethepirateswhoplaguedtheshoreline,hidinginOak'srugged
topography. Frustrated loggers later followed and established five separate lumber camps.
(One guy took up residence on a sand spit for 25 years, becoming known affectionately as
the “King of Oak Island.”) Their artifacts still lie about the island. The cliffs are ringed by
sandy spits and some superb beaches. Black bears are ubiquitous, so take care with food
supplies. Oak Island is also the best place in Wisconsin for winter camping.
