Pinehurst Inn offers packages that set the stage for adventure and our Pinehurst and Wolfsong Dog Sledding Adventure is the perfect example.

Wolfsong Dog Adventures in Mushing has operated out of Bayfield, WI since 1997. Over that time, John and Mary Thiel have built a class operation – the greatest dogs, fantastic guides, great knowledge of the area … and they’re good people. Thanks to the location by Lake Superior, our winters typically provide great snow from December through March. The trips vary in length but are consistent with great training, ability to actively participate or simply ride along.

The Pinehurst/Wolfsong Package offers the following:

• Two (2) nights lodging in available room of choice
• The Wolfsong Morning Adventure Dog Sledding Run for two (2) people
• All Pinehurst Inn amenities including sauna, common areas with fireplaces and more.

Weekend package rates range from $697 – $817 depending on room booked. Weekday package rates range from $612 – $732. Does not include sales tax and room tax on lodging.

Book online (exact pricing shows when room & package selected) or call 877-499-7651. We are happy to customize this to your needs as able.

Looking for a shorter adventure – check out the Wolfsong Afternoon Run. Call for pricing and more details.

Enjoy this feedback from our guests:

• “This was such a kick! The dogs were fantastic and the guide superb. We’re coming back again with our kids!”
• “I was nervous about being able to keep up with the dogs, but this was totally doable. I loved the dogs and it was so lovely on the trails.”

Just one more way to embrace winter while enjoying Pinehurst Inn and Bayfield.

With adventure comes risks. Sadly one of the most common destinations for kayakers, the Mainland Seacaves, has also been the site of a number of deaths. In both cases hypothermia and being ill prepared were a part of the picture. Waves at the mainland sea caves can be particularly dangerous because of the bowl-like rock cliffs that reflect and amplify waves. Two large waves can combine to form an extremely large wave.The National Park Service and Bayfield area are working to minimize these dangers.

With support from Wisconsin Coastal Management Program and the Friend of Apostle Islands, kayakers now can check wave heights online before visiting the mainland sea caves at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Using a smart phone or the Web, kayakers can check the live conditions report at www.seacaveswatch.org. The website lists the wave height for the previous six hours in 30-minute increments. The site also displays water temperature and photos of the waves at the sea caves, and it relays wind speed and direction recorded at Devil’s Island.

“We hope kayakers will use this system to make good decisions before venturing out onto the lake,” said Bob Krumenaker, superintendent of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. “We hope it will save lives.”

The rule many of us follow on Lake Superior is this: “The Lake is the Boss.” We love this grand body of water but we also recognize how dangerous it can be at times. We appreciate efforts such as this one to make the decision making just a bit easier.

Think kayaking in September! It is absolutely a perfect time of year to enjoy the paddling experience without the intensities of the summer months. Pinehurst Inn is thrilled to partner with Living Adventure on our “By Sea Kayaking Package.”

Most days, if there is any sort of wind, we are cooler than the rest of the region. But, on those days where it seems miserably muggy, there is still a solution – go swimming! There is nothing quite as refreshing as taking a dip in this beautiful lake to cool off. So, while it maybe miserably muggy everywhere else around us, we don’t mind! We’ve got this wonderful lake keeping us cool and comfortable.

Living Adventure is one of our favorite partners. Living Adventure home is located just north of Bayfield. Sitting on the shore of Lake Superior and the southern most Apostle Islands, they provide magnificent kayaking trips for visitors. Ranging from 2 hours to multiple days, their trips provide all equipment, instruction, guidance and fun. The instructors are prepared to work with first time paddlers. Education on the area, the natural history and more is woven in. Safety is key.

The most popular trip our guests take is the Sea Caves trip, a 5 hour paddle. A hallmark of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is the ancient geology noted by red sandstone cliffs and sea caves. Centuries of wave action, freezing and thawing have sculpted artful caves considered to be the most spectacular in the Great Lakes. Kayakers have the unique opportunity to paddle under arches, into vaulted chambers and into the cavern’s deepest recesses. This is truly a breathtaking experience not to be missed. The trip includes a great lunch along the way, and is provided in a safe environment with experienced guides.

Our guests return  from these kayaking outings with a smile on their face. They’ve had an adventure – an important component of a Pinehurst Inn stay. Now we can help them shape the “personal rejuvenation” component of their stay… how about an Enso Day Spa massage to round out the day?

History comes to life with the traditional Blessing Ceremony this Sunday, June 12th at 1:00pm: commercial fishing boats, tugs, powerboats, sailboats, excursion and transportation craft, and rowboats parade through Bayfield’s City Harbor. As they pass by the tip of the pier, clergy from the Apostle Islands community grant each vessel a blessing for safe passage and a prosperous season on Lake Superior. Lake Superior is Bayfield’s lifeblood. The Lake has drawn countless people to this area, from the Ojibwe, to the fur traders and missionaries, to commercial fishermen, and finally to tourists and pleasure boaters. In the late 1950′s Bayfield inaugurated the Blessing of the Fleet to honor its fishing families who formed the backbone of the area’s economy.

This event is open to all boaters, from kayaks and rowboats to fishing and sailboats. The Ferry Line has even been known to bring a few of their boats through for the annual blessing. Come to Memorial Park for a brief ecumenical service before the ceremony and then enjoy seeing the variety of boats get their blessing for a happy, safe and bountiful boating season.

If you are interested in participating in the Blessing, feel free to contact the Bayfield Chamber with any questions at 715-779-3335 or email Erin at erin@bayfield.org.

The Apostle Islands have long been a mecca for boaters and sailers.  The island’s protected bays, public docks, pristine beaches, historic sites and natural beauty offer outstanding boating opportunities.

Whether you are a seasoned sailor or complete novice, you will feel at home. Take the time to learn from the USCG licensed captain or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. This year Dreamcatcher is  offering a premium Sea Caves Trip (July & August) from Cornucopia Harbor in addition to their Apostle Islands trip out of Bayfield.

Dreamcatcher is Travel Green Wisconsin certified and provides a true eco-tour on each trip. Whether viewing bird life or learning the ideosycracies of Lake Superior, you can sense their dedication to operating with respect for the enviroment.

The Pinehurst By Sea Sailing Package offers a great chance to experience Dreamcatcher. If the package doesn’t fit your schedule, let us know and we can customize for you.  We look forward to hearing your sailing stories!

A lodging – spa package designed with total rejuvenation  in mind. This includes:

• two (2) nights lodging in any available Pinehurst eco-elegant room (additional nights can be added)
• two heart-and-soul warming breakfasts
• two (2) 60-minute Enso Spa services (select from massage, facials, body wraps, plus more!  – one service for each person)
• sand and sea foot treatment for each person
• complimentary Enso gift bag
• complimentary wine or champagne
• complimentary sweets (think dark chocolate!)
• use of Pinehurst sauna + all other Pinehurst amenities

Rates range from $423 – $643 depending on room booked. Does not include room & sales tax. Must be booked prior to arrival. Rates provided valid through May 25, 2012.

Please call 877-499-7651 for package rates after May 25th.

If seeking Couples Massage with this package, add $15 to package pricing.

Book online or call 877-499-7651 to reserve this package.

Each package is priced and booked separately.

Pinehurst Inn & Dreamcatcher Sailing Package

Enjoy a two night stay with all Pinehurst Inn amenities plus the Dreamcatcher Island Landing Excursion for two people (includes lunch). Throw in two $5 Enso vouchers and you’ve got a package! Check out our more detailed information.

Rates range from $528 – $688 (includes everything except room and sales tax). Call 877-499-7651 or book online.

Pinehurst Inn & Living Adventure Kayaking Package

This two night package offers lodging in combination with the Living Adventures full day Sea Caves Trip for 2 (includes lunch).  $5 discounts for each person are provide for Enso Day Spa. Our kayak package detail page provides more information.

Rates range from $433 – $585 (includes everything except room and sales tax for lodging). Call 877-499-7951 or book online. This package will end September 11, 2011.

Pinehurst Inn Biking Package with Bayfield Bike Route

This two night package provides great lodging along with bike rental for two with Bayfield Bike Route. We will happily provide a variety of options for route that fit your expertise. Also includes box lunches for two from Big Water Cafe.  Want more details? Check out our Bike Package page.

Rates range from $296-$456 depending on room booked. Call 877-499-7651 or book online.

Pinehurst Inn Golf Package with Apostle Highlands Golf Course

Stay two nights and enjoy a $10 discount on greens fees (18 holes) at Apostle Highlands Golf Course. Throw in two drink chips and life is good. Room rates vary from $119 – $199 per night.  More information…

Offer is valid through the season. Must be requested at time of reservation. For more information or to book this package call 877-499-7651 or book online.

We are so fortunate in Bayfield to be situated on the South Shore of the grand Lake Superior – this time of year provides lake effect snow, resulting in frequent snowfall, preserving the clean winter vista while also providing consistent snow for outdoor play. With this in mind, we are happy to provide out top 5 Winter Adventure recommendations:

1.      Bayfield Peninsula provides magnificent terrain for dog sledding! Consider a Wolfsong Dog Sledding trip. Their trips are magnificent! Be sure to check out Pinehurst Dog Sledding Packages.

2.      Mt Ashwaybay Ski Area provides downhill skiing, over 40 km of beautiful XC Ski and snowshoe trails. Just up 2.5 miles up the hill from Pinehurst Inn.

3.      As safety allows, visit the Mainland Sea Caves. Magnificent winter landscapes unique to Lake Superior and rugged shoreline. Typically accessible late February. Always check the National Park Service website for current conditions and safety recommendations.

4.      Make your way to Madeline Island! Whether by ferry, windsled, or ice road, this is a true adventure.

5.      While on Madeline, head out if able to Big Bay State Park for some great snowshoeing along the sandstone cliffs.

All of these activities will get you out to incredibly beautiful areas, view of Lake Superior and the Apostle Island, serene hardwood and pine forests. Some simple ways to embrace winter in your search for adventure.

Watch for our upcoming post on the Pinehurst Inn Top 5 Winter Relaxation Ideas!