The Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve lands are crossed by several trails that are open to hiking in summer, and cross-country skiing in winter. For the past few years the trails, which were part of the old logging roads, had little maintenance. More recently a new Island Trails Committee was formed as part of the Town of La Point’s CAPP committee. It is the goal of the Island Trail Committee to enhance and maintain the trails for the safety and enjoyment of the general public.

In addition to MIWP board member Margie Frederickson and husband Carl other members of this committee are Town of La Pointe road supervisor Keith Sowl, teacher Carol Sowl, EMT Patty Hobin, town treasurer Carol Neubauer, Lee Ann Merrill from the Chamber of Commerce, Mark Eggelson from Big Bay State Park, Jim Ryder, and Ed Kale.

Recent Improvements
This past winter the north end trails, which may be accessed off North Shore Road across from the Burroughs Trail, were groomed and set for crosscountry skiing. Windfalls had been cleared by volunteers in the fall, prior to the first snow. Snowshoers are also welcome to use these trails and walk along the side of the ski tracks.

The Capser Trail has a new parking lot off Middle Road, making it much more accessible from that end of the trail. A bridge was constructed to span the creek, which ran fairly high with water through the winter. The trail has been widened and will get new signage this spring.

Permitted Uses
The Capser Trail may be used by dogsledders and snowmobiles in winter when adequate snow cover allows. To keep the trails open for hiking, no bikes, ATVs, or other motorized vehicles are allowed.

Trail Maps
A trail brochure with maps will be available at the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce.

Click here to download Trail maps:

South Section

North Section