Combine A Boat Tour With Hiking

Some of the most fascinating stories of the Great Lakes are found in places too remote to reach by car. Guided boat tours allow you to access these hidden treasures, while the hikes bring you up close and personal with sites that shaped the region’s history.

Imagine stepping onto a sandy beach after a scenic boat ride, then trekking through a forested trail to the remains of a 19th-century lumber camp. Or climbing a rocky bluff to an old lighthouse that has weathered countless storms. Each destination tells a story, and with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll discover details and secrets you might otherwise miss.

Historic Highlights to Explore

Apostle Islands: A Journey Through Time

The Apostle Islands are a hub of history, offering access to numerous sites that played pivotal roles in the Great Lakes’ past.

Lighthouses
The Apostle Islands are home to the largest collection of lighthouses in the United States, with nine historic towers spread across six islands. A hike to the Sand Island Lighthouse or the Raspberry Island Light Station reveals not only beautiful architecture but also tales of lonely keepers braving harsh winters and perilous storms.

Lumber Camps
Old growth forests once blanketed the Apostle Islands, fueling a booming timber industry. Hiking through sites like those on Stockton Island allows you to see remnants of camps where lumberjacks worked tirelessly to harvest the region’s prized timber.

Fish Camps and Fisheries
Commercial fishing was a vital industry in the Apostle Islands, and you can still find traces of fish camps and smokehouses along the shoreline. These sites offer a glimpse into the lives of fishermen who relied on Lake Superior’s abundant waters.

Upper Michigan: Mining and Maritime Heritage

Venturing beyond the Apostle Islands, Upper Michigan offers its own array of historical treasures accessible only by boat and foot.

Ancient Copper Mines
Before European settlers arrived, the native Ojibwe people mined copper from these lands. Guided hikes to prehistoric mine sites reveal tools and artifacts from this era, along with stories of how copper was used in trade networks that spanned the continent.

Shipwreck Hikes
The Keweenaw Peninsula’s rugged coastline is dotted with shipwreck sites, many of which can be explored after a short hike from the shore. Learn how these wrecks shaped maritime laws and the lives of those who worked on the Great Lakes.

A Day in the Life of a Great Lakes Explorer

Your day begins at the dock, where you’ll board a comfortable and well-equipped boat. As you cruise to your destination, your guide will share fascinating facts about the area’s history and natural wonders.

Once you arrive, the adventure continues on foot. Trails might lead you to the ruins of a lumber camp, where moss-covered beams hint at the bustling activity that once took place there. Or perhaps you’ll hike to a lighthouse perched high above the lake, where panoramic views reward your efforts.

After exploring, there’s time to relax. Many of our tours include a picnic stop at a secluded beach or a scenic overlook, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Lake Superior before the return journey.

Plan Your Lake Superior Hike Through History

Lake Superior’s rich history and natural beauty make it a destination like no other. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys a good hike, our guided boat tours and hikes offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

Ready to step back in time and uncover the stories of the Great Lakes? Contact us today to book your trip and get ready for an adventure that combines history, exploration, and unforgettable scenery.

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