Setting Out Across the Water
Our journey begins in Duluth, where we gather at our host hotel,[JJ1] a fitting starting point to meet kindred spirits who share a yearning for adventure. From here, we travel to Sand Bay, Wisconsin, where Lake Superior’s shimmering expanse unfolds before us. Here, the lake itself becomes our classroom. After a demonstration of kayaking technique and safety procedures, we practice paddling, feeling the way our bodies move with the water’s rhythm.
A satisfying lunch prepares us for our first crossing, leaving behind the hum of everyday life as Sand Island’s shores grow larger in the distance. Upon arrival, we work together as a team to set up camp, then the remainder of the afternoon is free to explore the island. The trees stand tall, and the night’s stillness begins to settle over the island as the lake reflects the last light of the day. Tonight, we sleep beneath the stars, our first taste of the island wilderness. Lunch and dinner included.
Kayaking: 3.5-4 miles (including practice), Van transfer: 2 hours
Sea Caves and Lighthouse Trails
The morning air is fresh with the scent of pine and water. Today, we journey toward Swallow Point, where Sand Island’s famed sea caves await us. Paddling close, we enter a realm of sculpted rock, worn and shaped by centuries of waves and wind. The cliffs echo with the lake’s quiet whispers, the hollow sounds reverberating as we explore these cathedral-like passages.
By midmorning, we finish paddling across Justice Bay, catching our first glimpse of the Sand Island Lighthouse in the distance, and anticipating our exploration. Paddling back to camp we savor lunch then hike to this stately beacon, its presence a silent testament to the island’s history, guiding sailors and wanderers alike. By evening, we return to our camp, our hearts full of the lake’s quiet magic and the day’s discoveries. All meals included.
Kayaking: 4-4.5 miles, Hiking: 4.1 miles
Passage to Mitigominikaani-minis
An early start finds us slipping into our kayaks, the lake still and glassy in the morning light. A day of reflections and legends, today’s paddle is our longest, as we trace a path across the waters to Oak Island, called Mitigominikaani-minis by the native Ojibwe people, meaning place of many acorns. Along the way, we pause at York and Raspberry islands, stepping briefly onto new shores, taking in the vistas that stretch endlessly. On Raspberry Island, we lunch beside its lighthouse, a charming sentinel standing watch over these waters. As we push onward to Oak Island, following centuries old paths between the islands, and learning some of the lore and history of this freshwater sea, the lake’s vastness humbles us, its power softened by the gentle roll of waves beneath our boats. By late afternoon, we arrive at our camp on Oak Island, where smiles, a sense of accomplishment and peaceful solitude settles in. As we enjoy a well-earned dinner, we turn our gaze west to take in the breathtaking sunset that Lake Superior is famous for, bringing the day to a close with stories and camaraderie around the campfire, while trying to answer one of the age-old questions, can Bigfoot swim??? All meals included.
Kayaking: 10-12 miles (depending on campsite)
Hermit Island’s Solitude and Basswood’s Shores
The lake’s early light calls us again, and today we make our way toward Basswood Island, pausing first on Hermit Island. Here, we find a quiet spot to pause and break for lunch, feeling the solitude that once lured those who sought refuge in these isolated woods. The afternoon finds us paddling to Basswood Island, where we set up camp amidst the trees. The evening is ours to explore the island, or to simply sit by the shore, watching as the lake turns golden in the fading light. This is our last night under the open skies, a final chance to savor the wildness and wonder that has filled our days. All meals included.
Kayaking: 7-10 miles
Bayfield and a bid farewell
Our final day dawns, and we paddle toward Bayfield, the little town nestled on the lake’s edge. En route, we encounter the resting place of the Fedora shipwreck, its bones lying silently beneath the water—a reminder of the lake’s mysteries and its ancient tales. Buffalo Bay welcomes us with gentle waves, and soon we arrive in Bayfield, where we celebrate the end of our journey with a hearty lunch and enjoy this quaint fishing town. As we board the van for the trip back to our host hotel, we carry with us memories of days shaped by water and stone, of quiet forests, and endless skies—and excitement for our next life changing REI Adventure! Breakfast and lunch included.
Kayaking: 4-5 miles, Van transfer: 2 hours