Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Island-hopping by sea kayak on Lake Superior, with 21 islands to paddle to, sea caves to explore in calm weather and island campsites. It feels like a coastal trip without tides, but treat it as open water: the lake's average summer surface temperature is 59°F, and hypothermia can set in within about 10 minutes of a capsize. Winds commonly run 5 to 20 knots with waves of one to four feet, and kayakers have died at the sea caves, which should be avoided in rough conditions. Camping permits are required for all camping in the lakeshore and can be reserved online. Go with a guide, or with a wetsuit and solid rescue skills.