For those looking for Wisconsin’s most precious of gems—Lake Superior Agates—there are plenty of places to go. From stunning views of Lake Superior to sleepy towns filled with decades of history, Wisconsin’s agates are beloved by many. While searching is usually a pleasant endeavor, it’s always best to be mindful of where and how to properly look for the impressive beauty of the lake’s agates.
For those living near Madeline Island, northern Bayfield County, and Ashland County, there are many beaches perfect for searching. Most of the beaches will be north facing, allowing for the waves and water to expose these rocks on the sand. Nona Beach, Meyer’s Beach, and Little Sand Bay are all sites to check out. Other dependable beaches can be reached by Sawyer, Iron, and Bayfield Counties. The stretches from Meyers Beach to Papoose Bay, as well as Ontario and Frank’s Point Beach all the way up to Cornucopia, are reliable beach sites that are known to expose the prized agates from the water.
In addition to the beach sites, there is also the option to explore some of Wisconsin’s quaint towns. In Superior, is the Barker’s Island. This area has produced agates since the early 1960s and is one of the best places to look. The rocky area along the waterfront, near the beginning of the Superior hiking trail, is another great spot to search—just remember to be respectful of private property when searching nearby residential areas. Grandview, Wisconsin is another famous agate hunting location. This town is known to produce a wide variety of agate colors, ranging from blues and greens to reds and oranges.
Polk’s Hill on the Chicago Bay in Iron River also contains several varieties of agates. The majority of the agates found here will be of the Lake Superior variety, along with some Lake Michigan type agates. Finally, for those living further east, the Saint Peter’s Dome near Montreal can be great spot to explore. The majority of the rocks here are from larger pieces on the shore area, however occasionally agates can be found amongst the sediment on the beach.
No matter which area of the state you decide to explore, there are a few tips to help you in your search. First, try to look when the tide is low and rocks are exposed. The time of year is also important and searches should be done in the late summer and fall. Darker days when the sun isn’t as powerful are much easier to search as the agates are easier to spot. Finally, bring a heavy-duty magnet as many agates will stick to the magnet even when in their rock form.
Lake Supeiror Agates in Port Wing
For those who enjoy a day at the beach and searching for agates, Port Wing is a great destination. A more remote area than the others, Port Wing has beautiful views of Lake Superior and plenty of early morning hours for searching. Agates located in this area are typically of the Lake Superior variety, with some Lake Michigan-type agates also present amongst the beaches. Primarily red in color, varying from brilliant to dull hues, there is a wide range of agates that can be found in Port Wing.
Due to its remote location, the beaches of Port Wing are perfect for those looking for a peaceful, quiet search. With low tide in the morning and plenty of fresh air, Port Wing is a great way to spend a day and hunt for agates at the same time. Early morning hours, when possible, are ideal for agate searching in this area, as the sunlight is not yet as powerful.
Lake Supeiror Agates in Chequamegon Bay
For those who want a convenient, accessible beach site for agate searching, Chequamegon Bay is the ideal destination. Considered one of the most popular spots for searching for agates, Chequamegon Bay has a variety of colors available for finding. Bright to drab colors of orange, brown, green, yellow, and purple can all be found in Chequamegon Bay. The common color of the Lake Superior agates found there is usually the deep red hue.
The best time to search in Chequamegon Bay is in the early morning hours. Low tides are the perfect opportunity to explore the area, since the waves crashing against the shore will reveal the agates as they mix among the sand. Remember to pack a magnet to help find agates that may be hidden in the rocks and sediment on the beach.
Lake Supeiror Agates in Ashland County
Located to the south of Superior, Ashland County is another favorable spot for people who enjoy agate hunting. Ashland County is home to plenty of beaches along Lake Superior and typically yields many harbor agates, which are regular Lake Superior agates but with a tinge of blue.
Low tides are again a great spot for here, where eons of crashing waves have managed to deposit agates onto the shoreline. Given the power of the lake and the winds, the agates can sometimes be buried in the sediment and gravel. That’s why it is important to use some kind of device, such as a magnetic stick or a rake with a screen, when searching along the shoreline.
Lake Supeiror Agates in Bayfield County
Considered the premier spot for agate hunting along the shoreline of Lake Superior, Bayfield is the most diverse spot for searching. With many different beaches and access to beaches, there is something there for everyone. From Nona Beach to Meyer’s Beach and many other locations, Bayfield County is filled with many different types of agates.
If possible, try to arrive on the beach during the early morning hours for the best access to the shoreline. Low tides are crucial for agate searching as well, given their ability to smoothly expose agates for hunters to marvel at. Depending on the area, remember to check for private property when searching.
