Frequently asked Questions

There are no stupid questions, just frequently asked ones.

🌊Planning Your Trip

Do I need kayaking experience to join a tour?

No—most of our guests are first-time kayakers. We provide a full introduction to paddling and safety before launching, and our guides support you throughout the trip.

If you're comfortable being active outdoors and willing to learn, you’ll do just fine.

The only exception is our "experienced paddler" overnight trips, where we do plan a longer route, requiring paddling skills.

Looking for more kayak training? Join a course.

Which kayak tour should I choose?

The best tour depends on your comfort level, time, and what you want to see.

First time / unsure → Start with a shorter or half-day trip
Want sea caves → Choose a route where conditions allow cave access
Looking for a bigger adventure → Consider a full-day or multi-day trip

If you're not sure, reach out—we’re happy to point you in the right direction.

Should I book my Apostle Islands kayak tour in advance?

Yes. Trips often fill several days (or more) ahead.

If you’re visiting during peak season (June–August), booking early gives you the best chance of getting your preferred date and trip.

Is this worth it if I’ve never kayaked before?

Yes—this is exactly who most of our trips are designed for.

Many guests show up unsure and leave saying it was the highlight of their trip. The Apostle Islands are a unique place to experience by water, and we make it approachable.

🛟 Safety & Experience

Is sea kayaking in the Apostle Islands safe?

Yes—when done with proper guidance and conditions.

We actively monitor weather, wind, and wave conditions and choose routes that match the group’s ability. If conditions aren’t safe, we adjust or cancel the trip.

How physically difficult is kayaking?

Most trips are moderately active but very manageable for beginners.

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable:

Being active for a few hours
Sitting in a kayak
Paddling at a steady, relaxed pace

We take breaks and keep the group together.

How fast do I need to paddle?

Most guests paddle at an easy, steady pace.

We’re not racing—we travel as a group and adjust to the slowest paddler. Our goal is to explore and enjoy the area, not push speed.

What are your “rules” on the water?

Stay together, listen to your guide, and communicate if you need anything.

We keep things simple so everyone stays safe and has a good time.

Can kids join your kayak tours?

Yes, depending on the trip and the child.

Generally:

To be a 'paddler' in a tandem kayak, kids need to be able to follow instructions and stay engaged, and be 14 years old and 115lbs minimum
Younger/smaller participants may paddle in triple kayak with two adult sized paddlers.

If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll help you decide

What makes Lost Creek Adventures different?

Closest outfitter to the mainland sea caves. Less travel, more caves.
Highly trained guides. We train our guides for multi-day overnight trips. This means more experience in challenging conditions over multiple days. We even provide whitewater training so our guides learn how to be comfortable in rough water. You don't want a guide gaining experience in rough water on YOUR trip.
We do more... The owner has run trips for decades, and provides training for other companies and NPS. We offer winter skills, survival, and much more. This all means more breath of experience and knowledge is passed down to our guides and instructors.

Why should I choose a guided tour instead of going on my own?

A guided tour offers peace of mind for safety, but also so much more. A guide interprets what you are seeing, as well as what has come before. The cultural and natural history are a huge part of each tour.

I love going out on my own, and yes, it's less expensive, but it's often worth it to go your first time with a guide..

🚣 What to Expect

What is a typical kayak tour like?

We start with a short land-based briefing covering safety and paddling basics.

Then we launch and explore the shoreline, sea caves, or nearby islands depending on conditions. Along the way, we take breaks, share information about the area, and keep things relaxed.

Will we see sea caves?

Often, yes—but it depends on conditions.

Sea caves require calm water and the right wind direction. When it’s safe, we absolutely go. When it’s not, we choose an alternative route that still offers a great experience.

What will I actually see?

Depending on your route and conditions:

Sea caves and cliffs
Forested islands
Historical lighthouses
Clear Lake Superior water
Wildlife (birds, occasionally more)

Every trip is a little different—that’s part of the experience.

🎒 Gear & Packing

What should I wear for kayaking?

Dress for the water, not just the air.

We recommend:

Quick-dry clothing
Layers
Footwear that can get wet

Avoid cotton when possible. More information and packing lists.

Do you provide gear?

Yes—we provide all essential kayaking equipment, including kayak, paddle, and life jacket.

We’ll make sure everything fits and is adjusted before you head out.

What should I bring with me?

Bring the basics:

Water
Snacks
Sunscreen
Hat and sunglasses

You’re welcome to bring a dry bag if you have one.

For overnight or more intensive trips we will send you a packing list or you can check it out here.

Can I bring my dog?

We do not allow dogs on tours, however we do have a dog-friendly option via our Sit On Top Kayak rental. Contact us ahead of time so we can help determine if it’s a good fit.

📍 Logistics

Where do we meet?

We are based in Cornucopia, Wisconsin, near the Apostle Islands. You’ll receive detailed directions and meeting instructions after booking.

Fun fact, we are one of the only outfitter to offer free parking and shuttle for all of our trips. Keep your car and stuff safe, while saving some cash.

Where should I stay?

There are several lodging options in and around Cornucopia and the greater Apostle Islands area. On site we have the Apostle Islands Suite & Bunkhouse, and we have some other local recommendations. reach out—we’re happy to suggest places.

Are there height or weight limits?

Yes—kayaking equipment has practical limits for safety and fit.

In general, we need to have a conversation if you are taller than 6'2 AND 25olbs or more. If you have concerns, contact us ahead of time and we’ll make sure everything works for you.

If your group shows up and someone isn't comfortable in the kayak, we don't offer refunds, so it is important for you to contact us if you have concerns.

Do we paddle tandem or single kayaks on your sea kayaking trips?

For our half and full day tours we use tandem sea kayaks. Tandem kayaks are more stable than single kayaks, and they have rudders to help you steer. Occasionally when a guest has prior sea kayaking experience we allow them to paddle a single kayak. (Your guide makes the final decision)

On camping trips we will need at least one tandem kayak along for safety and storage reasons, but more single kayaks are permitted because of the more extensive training received. Tandem kayaks tend to be more efficient, so if you are worried about keeping up with the group, ask for a tandem.

Do we carry our own boats and gear?

Usually, yes. Although I like to think of it as the lower body workout part of the trip, it's not the favorite part for some of our guests. "Hire someone to carry boats" is the suggested solution. The reality is if we could hire someone to sit at the beach all summer to carry boats we'd have to charge a higher rate for trips, so our friendly competition would get your business, who would then ask you to help carry boats... (See the logic there?)

Kayaking is a physical activity. We paddle for 2 hours or more on each of our trips. If you're back is healthy enough to carry boats for 5 minutes at the end, please do, if not, PLEASE don't feel guilty. Let your guide know and they'll completely understand. No one is forced to carry boats, and we'll make it work!

💳 Booking & Policies

Do I need to book my Apostle Islands tour in advance?

Yes. Our trips fill up quickly, especially during peak times, so you'll need to plan ahead. Larger groups should book even further in advance. Sometimes we do have last-minute openings due to cancellations, so it's always worth giving us a call even if last minute.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If conditions are unsafe, we may:

Adjust the route
Reschedule your trip
Offer a refund when appropriate

We prioritize safety and will communicate clearly if plans change. We do still go out when it's chilly, rainy and wavy. The key question; is it safe? (Not "will I stay dry") It can be 80f a few miles from the lake, and 50f near the water. Come prepared and you will be comfortable.

What is your cancellation policy?

Policies vary slightly by trip, but generally:

Advance notice is required for cancellations
Weather-related cancellations are fully refundable or reschedulable

To read our full cancellation policy go here or click the link next to the trip description. You’ll also receive full details when booking so you can forward the information along to your group.

Do you have age requirements?

For paddling day trips we have a minimum age requirement of 5 years old to be a 'rider' in a triple kayak. Each child between 5 and 13 years old will need 2 'adult-sized' paddlers to paddle the triple. We consider youth to be of 'adult size' when they are at least 14 years old and a minimum weight of 115lbs.

For paddling overnight trips all participants must be paddlers, which means all participant must be at least 14 years old and at least 115 lbs.

For non-paddling courses and events we will have details in the description. If it's not clear or not listed, please contact us.