In short
- 4.5-mile out-and-back hike to view the sea caves.
- The best viewpoints are located 2.5 miles down the trail.
- Meyers Beach parking costs $5 to $8 per day.
In this article
Walking the Lakeshore Trail is the main way to see the mainland sea caves without a boat. The trail runs along the sandstone cliffs above Lake Superior. You can hike a short section to see the caves or walk the full distance to the mainland campsite.
How long is the Meyers Beach Lakeshore Trail hike?
The main hike to see the sea caves is a 4.5-mile out-and-back trip.
If you want to view the sea caves from above, expect to hike 4.5 miles. The path starts at the Meyers Beach parking area. You will follow the shoreline cliffs over Lake Superior.
Where are the best sea cave viewpoints?
You reach the best viewpoints overlooking the caves after hiking 2.5 miles.
The trail traces the tops of the sandstone cliffs. Look down into the red sandstone sea caves formed by centuries of wave action. Always stay far back from the fragile cliff edges. The ground near the rim is unstable.
Where do you park for the Lakeshore Trail?
Park at the Meyers Beach parking area off Highway 13.
Parking costs $5 per day for vehicles under 20 feet. It costs $8 for vehicles 20 feet or longer. The maximum vehicle length allowed in the lot is 45 feet.
How far is the Mainland Campsite?
The secluded backcountry campsite requires a 6-mile hike from the Meyers Beach parking lot.
The campsite sits deep in the forest above the lake. You must book a permit in advance using Recreation.gov. When camping, you must secure all food and scented items in the provided bear-resistant lockers.
Can you reach the ice caves from this trail?
Winter ice cave access is extremely rare.
Between 2000 and 2023, the mainland ice caves were accessible on only 2% of days. When they do open, you walk over the ice instead of hiking the trail. During these rare winter openings, you cannot park at the trailhead.
What gear do you need for the hike?
Wear sturdy hiking boots for the rugged Lakeshore Trail.
Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and ticks. Pack warm layers. Temperatures can drop suddenly due to lake breezes. The average Lake Superior water temperature in May and June stays in the 40s Fahrenheit.
Questions travellers ask
Do you have to pay to get into Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?
The national lakeshore is free to enter. However, a $5 to $8 daily parking fee applies at Meyers Beach depending on your vehicle length.
Can you drive to the Apostle Islands?
You can drive to the mainland unit at Meyers Beach. To reach the actual 21 islands, you need a boat or a kayak.
Are there bears on the Apostle Islands?
Yes. Stockton Island has a dense population of black bears. If you camp on the mainland or the islands, you must use bear-resistant lockers for food.
