Two trails on Sand Island allow visitors to explore virgin forestland, see an unusual geologic site, probe a historic farmsite and view a 19th century lighthouse.

Lighthouse Trail is a two-mile trail connecting the campground at East Bay with the Sand Island Lighthouse. Trail highlights include a sand beach at Justice Bay with views of the Swallow Point sea caves, and a grove of virgin white pines, part of the old growth forest near the lighthouse.

The Noring Farm Trail extends only 0.3-mile west from the East Bay campground to a farmsite once used by the Noring family. Some historic farm equipment and building remains are present.

Sand Island Lighthouse, near the western end of the Apostle Island chain, was occupied for a shorter period than any of the archipelago's other lights. Built in 1881, it was the first of the group to be automated, in 1921. The design of the lighthouse was influenced by the Gothic style, popular during the Victorian period.

Directions: From Bayfield, WI, Excursion boats and private watercraft provide access to Apostle Islands. Apostle Islands Cruise Service, 1-800-323-7619.

Distance: 2.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

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