Door County Part 2
On the second full day of our Door County trip, we decided on a visit to Washington Island. It’s a short ferry ride just pass the famous scenic highway. I haven’t been to the island and my wife hasn’t visited since she was young and we were excited to explore.
I decided just to bring my M11 and lenses. I wasn’t sure if we’d hike around, there was suppose to be rain that day and the Mamiya kit took up a bit too much room in my camera bag to bring both systems. In hindsight, of course we had gorgeous sun, and we drove around more than I expected so I could have brought the film setup. Maybe next time.
We barely made it on the ferry for our 10 AM time slot. We weren’t the only folks that wanted to make the crossing and the line behind us as we squeezed on the ferry stretched almost back to the scenic highway. The short ride was quite chilly and breezy but I didn’t take many photos on the ferry due to water spray on the lake.
Our next, but real first stop was Stavkirke Chapel. A beautiful tribute to Norway tucked away in trees. Pairing the dark, siding of the building with the bright fall leaves really made this pop.
School house beach. No rocks left the beach with us.
I loved this storage building we found near a small firehouse. I have no idea about the story behind it, but it’s a vibe.
Driving across the island felt eerily empty where we’d see no cars along the road and we’d arrive at the beach, the church or the lookout tower and suddenly we’d be with other visitors. Towards the end of the day we stopped in a yarn and craft school for some souvenirs and gifts. When we remarked about how empty and peaceful it felt during our day there, they said the Fall Fest weekend really marks the end of the season for Washington Island. The ferry schedule shifts, almost all the inns, cottages, and restaurants close. Overall, it was a great day trip.
But I really did wish I brought my Mamiya and some Ektar.
