The largest of the Apostle Islands, Madeline Island is home to LaPointe, Wisconsin. The novelty of seeing the area from a ferry on the way to "the Island", makes it a natural popular destination point for travelers. In the winter, taking a wind sled or the ice road from Bayfield can be an exhilarating experience. Big Bay State Park is located on the far side of the island, with lakeshore trails perfect for walking and cross-country skiing over Brownstone bluffs. LaPointe has a thriving year-round community complete with a volunteer fire department, elementary school and softball teams. Almost everyone enjoys winding down at Tom's Burned Down Cafe, the popular outdoor tavern with wood stoves to warm chilly Island nights.