Days 149–150 Nicolet Bay and Fish Creek

Sunday & Monday September 14 & 15, 2025

SUNDAY—What a Day!

Today was one for the books! We started off slow and easy with a leisurely breakfast aboard the boat, savoring the calm before setting off in our dinghy for shore. We’re anchored in the serene bay of Peninsula State Park, just across from the charming town of Ephraim, WI — a picture-perfect spot to launch a day of adventure.

Our mission? Tackle the more demanding hike: Eagle Trail to Eagle Tower. And wow — what a hike! Twisting trails, rugged terrain, and breathtaking cliffside paths kept us on our toes (literally — eyes down most of the time to watch our footing). It was the kind of trail that makes you feel like you’ve earned every single view.

And the views? Unreal. The towering limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and dramatic lake vistas were absolutely awe-inspiring. When we finally climbed Eagle Tower, we were treated to panoramic views that made every step worth it. The crisp air, the shimmering water in the distance — pure magic.

Despite the number of people in the park, the trail still felt like our own little escape. We considered taking the road back, but in the spirit of adventure, we chose the trail again — a solid 5 miles total that took a couple of hours, with plenty of stops to soak in the surroundings.

Back on the boat, we didn’t hesitate to jump into the lake — yes, even at a brisk 68 degrees! That icy plunge was as shocking as it was exhilarating. The perfect reward after a long, active day.

We spent the rest of the afternoon in full relaxation mode: reading, lounging, and letting time drift by. And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we stepped outside before bed and caught a dazzling display of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

Now that’s what you call a great day.

MONDAY—Fish Creek Fun!

Another slow and easy morning greeted us—sunny skies, crisp air, and that perfect September stillness. We made the short hop of just 4 miles and dropped anchor in the tranquil harbor of the charming Village of Fish Creek. Not much traffic around here on a mid-September Monday, just peaceful water and the occasional gull gliding by.

Once settled, we spent some time mapping out the next leg of our trip. We’re aiming to be in Milwaukee by the 22nd or 23rd to pick up Trisha (Jeff’s sister), but with some easterly winds forecasted, we may have to adjust our sails—literally. A few travel days might be a no-go, so some flexibility will be key.

After anchoring, we hopped in the dinghy and headed ashore for a bit of exploring and light shopping. Fish Creek never disappoints with its collection of unique, one-of-a-kind shops. Unfortunately, a couple of the ones I was really looking forward to were closed—seasonal hour changes, and they only updated the signs on their doors 😞. Small-town charm, right?

Back on the boat, we had a couple hours to relax—just soaking up the sun and the serenity before dinner.

Tonight’s pick: Loft—a relatively new spot (just four years old) that’s already built a stellar reputation. It’s an open-air restaurant, equipped with Isinglass curtains and overhead heat lamps for cooler nights—but tonight, none of that was needed. And the experience did not disappoint. We shared an order of crispy Wisconsin cheese curds (because, obviously), a Caesar salad, and rich mushroom ravioli topped with Parmesan-crusted chicken. Every bite was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely worth the hype.