found on Madeline Island

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHLEEN MURPHY

It might be easy for a Twin Ports parent with small children to overlook Madeline Island as a place to take their kids for a day trip. For some, the island brings up thoughts of art studios, quaint downtown restaurants and bike rides to the beach.

Though these are popular activities, it would be a shame to miss the wonders of Madeline Island because of this notion. The Island has many options aimed at families, even after the busy outdoor summer season has come to an end. Though chances are good that the water at the beach will no longer be warm enough to swim, an autumn day trip to Madeline Island will keep a family busy from the moment they step off the ferry.

One of the most exciting activities for kids, however, happens before they even step foot on the island. Ferry boats have been transporting passengers to and from Madeline Island for almost 150 years.

Today that job is performed by the Madeline Island Ferry Line. Take the kids to the ferry’s upper deck for the ride and watch the island grow closer, making sure to wave at the passing ferry that’s heading back to Bayfield. The trip takes only 25 minutes, just the perfect amount of time for the kids to enjoy themselves.

Once on the island, walk over to the Madeline Island Museum, located just one block off the ferry dock. Their exhibits are packed with interesting artifacts and housed in historic buildings such as the old town jail and the last remaining structure from the American Fur Company post. They have an interactive area where kids can try on period costumes, as well as an authentic wigwam kids can step into and a gigantic block of sandstone from the Basswood Island Quarry, both found in the museum’s stockade yard.

A few blocks away, find the trailhead for the 1.2 mile Casper Trail, a beautiful walk through the woods that includes several sitting areas, an observation deck, and a spot created specifically for storytelling. The true magic on this trail, however, isn’t on the trail at all. Encourage children to carefully explore past the circle of

Even in the cooler autumn months of September and October, a trip to Madeline Island wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach, even if it is just to play in the sand or dip in a foot. Joni’s Beach is located on Main Street within walking distance of the ferry dock, and the Beach Club restaurant has beachfront with patio tables just a few steps away. If a car is available, a drive out to Big Bay State Park (or the adjoining Big Bay Town Park) is worth the effort and can take an entire day to explore — even on cooler days. Trails allow hikers to explore the sizeable lagoon hidden behind Barrier Beach, as well as the surrounding woods and sandstone outcrops. Many of the trails are short and easily accessible.

Even when the end of October draws near, Madeline Island isn’t done charming its guests. The third weekend in October hosts the annual Family Fall Fest on the island. Not to be confused with the Bayfield Apple Festival a few weekends before, the Madeline Island festival has a different feel. “It’s kind of our end-of-the-season hurrah,” said Sharon Zanto, director of the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce. “Family Fall Fest on the island is smaller and easier to navigate with kids.”

Though there is plenty to see and do for parents, such as an end of the season farmer’s market, sidewalk and vendor sales featuring local artisans, and a wine and cheese tasting at Mission Hill Coffee on Middle Road, the festival is packed with free (and a few almost free) activities for children.

“Last year, our biggest draw was the bicyclepowered apple press,” said Zanto. “Kids were lined up to take a turn, and everyone got to enjoy a cup of the apple cider pressed from island apples.” Also appealing to kids is the pumpkin pie eating contest, free s’mores in front of the Bell Street Gallery, and a children’s costume parade. Adventure Vacations hosts one of the almost-free activities ($5 per participant to cover the cost of the material) by throwing a tie-dye party so the kids can take home a souvenir. New this year, one of the island’s residents is planning an antique car show.

When everyone is tired and it’s time to go home, wrap up your perfect island day with a treat. Kids can enjoy an ice cream cone for a $1.50 at Grandpa Tony’s, just a few doors down from the ferry dock, and the adults can try a wapple from a street venor — waffles filled with apple cheesecake and caramel sauce. — MDT

Kathleen Murphy is a freelance journalist who lives in Duluth and always enjoys a day on an island.