Swenson’s Barn Trail

Swenson’s Barn Trail is a 0.26-mile out-and-back from the signed junction on North Manitou Island’s main trail to the barn—about 0.13 mile each way on the same corridor. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for the walk and a look around. It’s an easy addition if you’re already hiking the island; the mapped line drops about 17 feet toward the barn, so the short return climbs the same gentle ground. At the main-trail junction, follow the sign for Swenson’s Barn.

A large, two-story wooden barn is the payoff, described as intact. An old house foundation sits at the edge of the woods to the left when you face the barn. The barn’s builder and construction date aren’t established, and public entry isn’t confirmed, so plan on seeing it from outside. Step back far enough to frame the long roof and full side wall against the trees.

A longer historic walk continues beyond the barn toward Crescent’s beach and old dock pilings; it is a separate outing, not part of this spur’s mileage. Crescent’s dock was completed in 1908, and its sawmill closed in 1915 after the island timber was milled. Those dates belong to the nearby settlement, not to the barn itself.

North Manitou Island is normally reached by passenger ferry from Leland or private boat; this junction has no road parking. Pets and wheeled vehicles are prohibited on the island. The ranger station is the only potable-water source, and other water should be treated. Overnight campers need a backcountry-use permit.