Apostle Islands Sea Cave Trail

Section 1 - The first section travels 1.8 miles through mixed hardwood forest, mostly out of sight of the lake, with the first 0.7 miles being relatively easy thanks to a boardwalk with steps and bridges. Use caution on the boardwalk as it can be slippery when wet. The remaining 1.1 miles of this section of trail is well-worn and becomes more challenging due to steep ravines, narrow bridges, exposed roots, irregular steps and slippery areas. The trail eventually levels out and veers closer to the lake where the crevasse and the first glimpses of sea caves come into view. A careful look down into the crevasse may reveal kayakers paddling below. A map here shows the entire length of the trail and the locations of many sea cave features. Section 2 - Once past the Crevasse, the second section of the trail begins. In this 0.6-mile section, several sea cave overlooks and stands of Red Pines can be found. Do not be alarmed if you hear loud popping or booming noises. These sounds are performed by the "cave wave chorus" when waves crash into and through caves and smaller openings in the sandstone below. There are many social trails in this area. To follow the official trail, look for markers featuring the icon of a green hiker that guide you slightly away from the cliff. This section of trail ends at a feature called the Bowl. Outcrops on both ends afford great views of sea caves and create a natural amphitheater.