Today we set out to kayak the sea caves in Bayfield, WI. The spectacular mainland sea caves carved out by waves and ice are a must-see landmark of the Apostle National Lakeshore. It became clear that as breathtakenly beautiful these caves are, they could also be equally dangerous. Fortunatley we picked a perfect day to make the two-mile trek across Lake Superior from Meyers Beach; the waves were between 1-2 feet, the water temperature was 55*, the sky was clear with no rain or high winds were in the forecast.

When we first arrived, the ranger quickly sized us up and strongly suggested we go get wet suits for our trip. Within the past year there had been four deaths due to hypothermia (the water temp: 50*). Even though my hot flashes would have welcomed the cold water neither of us wanted to be listed as casualty #'s 5 & 6 so we heeded her warning and made the short drive to Corucopia and rented the wetsuits ($5ea). Cornucopia has a population of 98 and is home of the most northern U.S. Post Office in Wisconsin and has two restaurants - one being Fishlips (where we ate).

After we made our journey back from the sea caves, it was still daylight so we drove to the town of Ashland for a little historical tour. We saw the last ore dock and was fascinated by the size. Dominating the lakefront of Ashland the structure was built in 1915; it is 1,800 feet long and rises 80 feet above Lake Superior. Sadly, it has been slated for demolation (still in debate amongst the locals).

The Chequamegon Hotel, also located in Ashland, was built in 1877 and has a host of historical tales including a ghost who lives on the top floor.

This area has been home to eight Indian nations and flew four different flags over the area. It is an amazing how quaint each community is and how much history the area has to offer.