Hikes, Eats, and Treats


So you just finished your paddle and your guide probably unloaded a bunch of suggestions on things to do in the area. Since there is so much to do on the South Shore of Lake Superior, we decided to make a page dedicated to our favorite spots. Even if you didn't go on a tour with us feel free to let these businesses know South Shore Adventures gave the pro tip!

Cornucopia

After a good paddle the first thing I'm thinking about is FOOD! My go to spot in Cornucopia is Ehlers General Store. It is a perfect spot to grab delicious quick pre-made food. It is great if you are in a hurry or forgot to pack a lunch for your next adventure. Our pro tip here is try the "compost cookie" - my mom makes the best cookies but this is a close second!

Now if you are in the mood for fresh seafood, look no further than The Fish Shed! They have the best fish tacos in the area and its fresh right from the South Shore of Lake Superior.

If you feel ambitious and want to do some hiking after or before your paddle, there are multiple great hikes right in the area! We call it the "Surf and Turf combo" if you kayak and hike on the same day.

The Sea Caves Hike is located right at the Meyers Beach parking lot. You can ask your guide or the Park Ranger to point out the trail head. This hike and the views is absolutely worth doing while you are in the area. If you want a shorter hike, check out Lost Creek Falls or Siskiwit Falls. They are both a short drive from Meyers Beach!

Bayfield

There is no shortage of restaurants and shops in the Bayfield area! We suggest checking them all out but here are a few of our favorites.

The Bayfield Inn, located at the heart of Bayfield and just up from the water, the views from this rooftop restaurant are phenomenal. The pro tip here is have dinner or drinks when there is live music in the park just below the inn. Enjoy dinner and a show with a beautiful view!

Our favorite place to take friends and family that are in town is Manny Penny Bistro. You have to try the Madeline Island pizza!

Now if you are in the market for some new outdoor gear, and bike, or just beer be sure to check out Howl. It is located just outside Bayfield and has an amazing selection of outdoor gear.

Madeline Island

We truly hope you make it to this wonderful island. It doesn't feel like you are in Wisconsin, but to be honest none of the South Shore feels like Wisconsin. You can take the ferry to the island with your vehicle or just yourself.

Our favorite way to experience the island is by bicycle! Don't worry if you forgot your bike Motion To Go has you covered. You can choose between a bike, moped, or e-bike. Then start your island adventure to Big Bay State Park. This park is without a doubt out of this world. The "big" in Big Bay is an understatement.

La Pointe on Madeline Island has shops, dining and ICE CREAM! Pro tip it is a must that you stop at Grampa Tony's on Madeline Island for ice cream. Another must stop would be Tom's Burned Down Cafe. This place is exactly how it sounds and is the perfect place to wet your whistle while on the island.

Washburn

We really hope you spend some time in Washburn while you are in the area! We call this town the hippy brother of Bayfield. First and foremost we need to mention cupcakes! Cocos Cafe has the best cupcakes, possibly in the world. When the strawberries are in season, the strawberry cupcake is AMAZING! All the baked goods and food here will be sure to satisfy any craving. They also have lots of tasty vegetarian and vegan options.

Now if you did not get your fill of ice cream on Madeline Island, Harbor House Sweets has you covered! They have so much more than just ice cream so they can tackle even the biggest sweet tooth! Pro tip try the passion fruit ice cream or one of the many other tropical flavors. Again you will forget you are in Wisconsin and think you are in Hawaii.

Now that we covered all the sweet treats in Washburn let's move on to food. Our favorite burger joint in the area is hands down Patsy's Bar and Grill. The blue cheese burger here is an easy go-to, although if you find yourself there on a Sunday try the wings. If you are looking for a romantic spot to wine and dine your significant other, Good Thyme Restaurant is the place to go. They have incredible food, a great staff, and a wonderful location.

If you haven't had enough food yet, don't worry we got you covered. The Harbor Table is another spot that we don't spend too much time away from. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu here with nightly specials and our pro tip, the black and blue ribeye.

Do not forget about throwing in another hike while in Washburn. Houghton Falls located on Houghton Falls Road just outside of Washburn is a beautiful hike. Lastly if you want to try some great local brews don't forget to stop by South Shore Brewery.

Ashland

Ashland is the South Shore's biggest town. If you need to stock up on supplies or just do some shopping, this is the place to be. Main Street in Ashland is full of shops, food, and a local organic grocery store.

The Chequamegon Food Co-Op is your one stop shop for all your healthy make at home meals, as well as some delicious food to order. Right down the road from the Co-Op is Black Cat Coffee and Ashland Baking Company. This little corner of Ashland really is all the good things you need in your life. Pro tip try the pecan caramel roll, made fresh everyday at the bakery and available at both the Ashland Baking Company or Black Cat.

This next restaurant is a two for one special, The Alley and Deep Water Grille. These two restaurants share a location and you can order from either menu. The pro tip food choice for the Alley is one of the mac n cheese skillets. If you want some amazing fresh fish, the white fish from Deep Water is as good as it gets.

This next spot has food, coffee, ice cream, and gear. Solstice Outdoors is located right on the water, with amazing views and great vibes. Another great spot on the water to check out would be The Landing, located in the Hotel Chequamegon. This place is the hot summer day location to sit on the deck with a blueberry spritzer and enjoy beautiful Lake Superior.

One of the best hikes in the area is Copper Falls State Park. It is located about 30 minutes south of Ashland and has the best waterfalls in the area. On your way to the hike be sure to stop at Hudson Square in Marengo for a delicious coffee or refreshing summer drink. Don't worry if you are not going to Copper Falls you can still try Hudson Square at the Ashland location by the Lake, next to Walmart.

We appreciate you coming to our little slice of paradise. Hopefully your time here was a memorable adventure. We hope you come back again and tell your friends and family about the best kept secret in Wisconsin: The South Shore of Lake Superior!