Greetings from Madeline Island, named after Madeleine Cadotte, daughter of Chief White Crane and wife of fur trader Michael Cadotte. The Ojibwe (Chippewa) and other native peoples made their home here for hundreds of years before European contact.
*** BALSAM FIR ***
Balsam fir (Abies balsamea) is one of the more important conifers in the northern United States and in Canada. Within its range it may also be referred to as balsam, Canadian balsam, eastern fir, and bracted balsam fir. It is a small to medium-sized tree used primarily for pulp and light frame construction, and it is one of the most popular Christmas trees. Wildlife rely extensively on this tree for food and shelter.
The fir tree has been a favorite Christmas tree for more than 400 years. It remains among the top three species. Sheared plantation-grown trees are usually preferred by retailers and consumers. Wreath-making is another holiday business that rivals that of Christmas tree sales in some areas. Prolonged needle retention after harvest, color, and pleasant fragrance are characteristics of balsam fir that make it attractive for these uses. Fragrance alone accounts for use of the needles as stuffing for souvenir pillows commonly sold in New England gift shops.
The hike along the Trail will bring you out to Lake Superior from the Point Parking lot. In all seasons, this ever-changing view from the island is worth the hike from “the Point” parking area.
The logbook must be signed, otherwise there is no proof of your success. BYOP Please place back exactly as found.
The Geocache Notification Form 2500-118 has been submitted to the Big Bay Park Manager of the Wisconsin DNR. Geocaches placed on Wisconsin Department of Natural Resource managed lands require permission by means of a notification form. Please print out a paper copy of the notification form, fill in all required information, then submit it to the land manager. The DNR Notification form and land manager information can be obtained at: http://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/forms/2500/2500-118.pdf