Casper Road Beach – Joni's Beach loop from Grants Point/Old Fort Road Lake Access

If you're looking for a challenging and diverse jogging route on Madeline Island, the Casper Road Beach – Joni's Beach loop from Grants Point/Old Fort Road Lake Access offers a unique experience. This difficult 9.7-mile (15.6 km) route, with 332 feet (101 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete, making it ideal for experienced joggers seeking a varied workout across beaches, trails, and island roads.

What to expect on Casper Road Beach – Joni's Beach loop from Grants Point/Old Fort Road Lake Access

This route is a journey through Madeline Island's varied landscapes, starting perhaps at Joni's Beach in downtown La Pointe with its lively atmosphere and ferry views. You'll transition to the peaceful Capser Trail, a multi-use path winding through forests and wetlands, offering a natural escape. As you approach Casper Road Beach at Grants Point, the scenery shifts dramatically to stunning vistas of Lake Superior and the La Pointe Lighthouse. Be prepared for mixed terrain, including well-maintained trails, potentially boggy sections, and stretches on island roads like Big Bay Road and Middle Road, which require awareness of vehicle traffic. The length and varied surfaces contribute to its difficult rating, making it best suited for joggers comfortable with navigating different environments.

Planning your visit

Accessing this loop can begin from Joni's Beach in downtown La Pointe, which offers public amenities, or from the Old Fort Road Lake Access at Grants Point, a public right-of-way. Since this route combines designated trails with island roads, you'll need to be mindful of traffic on sections connecting the Capser Trail to Grants Point. No specific permits or fees are mentioned, but always check local regulations. Given the length and exposure, carrying sufficient water is advisable, especially on warmer days.

Trail details

• Distance: 9.7 miles (15.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 332 feet (101 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 39 minutes