Isle Royale National Park, Michigan: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore Isle Royale National Park, a hidden gem in the Midwest? This remote island in Lake Superior offers a true wilderness experience. It's perfect for outdoor lovers who want adventure and peace.

Looking to dive into the park's natural history, see wildlife, or just relax outdoors? This guide will show you the best activities in Isle Royale National Park. Get ready to discover this wilderness gem in the Great Lakes region.

Key Takeaways

• Isle Royale National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the lower 48 states, offering a truly remote and wilderness experience.
• The park is an archipelago of hundreds of islands, with the main visited island being 50 miles wide and 9 miles long.
• Hiking, backpacking, paddling, fishing, and wildlife watching are some of the top things to do in Isle Royale National Park.
• The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, adding to its sense of isolation and adventure.
• Isle Royale National Park is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal destination for stargazing.

Introduction to Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is a hidden gem in Lake Superior's heart. It's about 53 miles north of Copper Harbor, Michigan. This island is perfect for those who love the outdoors and nature. It has diverse wildlife, untouched wilderness, and a rich history, making it a unique place to visit.

Where is Isle Royale National Park?

Isle Royale National Park is in Lake Superior's middle. The main island is 50 miles wide and 9 miles long. It's the largest island in the largest freshwater lake in the world. The park also includes over 133,000 acres of land and water, 4.5 miles offshore.

How big is Isle Royale National Park?

Isle Royale National Park is huge. The main island is 45 miles long and 8.5 miles wide. Amazingly, 99% of the park is wilderness. This helps keep the island's natural beauty and ecosystem intact.

Brief history of Isle Royale National Park

The Ojibwa people called the island "Minong," meaning "the good place." It was full of berries. The area became a national park in 1940, thanks to conservationists and outdoor lovers.

Today, Isle Royale National Park is still a wonder. It has untouched wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy hiking, paddling, and seeing moose and gray wolves. It's a true treasure of the Great Lakes.

How to Get to Isle Royale National Park

Getting to Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is an adventure. There are a few ways to get there. You can take a ferry or a seaplane. It's important to plan ahead because these options often fill up fast.

Getting to Isle Royale by Ferry from Michigan

From Michigan, you can take the Isle Royale Queen IV ferry from Copper Harbor or the Ranger III ferry from Houghton. Both ferries go to the Rock Harbor or Windigo sides of the island. The Isle Royale Queen IV takes about three hours. The Ranger III ferry from Houghton takes a bit longer.

Getting to Isle Royale by Seaplane from Michigan

Seaplanes are another way to get to Isle Royale, leaving from near Houghton, Michigan. They offer a beautiful view of the park. Seaplane flights last 45-60 minutes and cost $300-$350 per person for a round trip.

Getting to Isle Royale from Minnesota

You can also get to Isle Royale from Minnesota. The Sea Hunter III ferry leaves from Grand Portage, Minnesota, and goes to Windigo. The Voyageur II ferry stops at Windigo and Rock Harbor, leaving from Grand Marais, Minnesota. Seaplanes are also available from Grand Marais.

It's crucial to book your trip to Isle Royale early. Ferries and seaplanes get booked up fast during the busy season from late June to August.

Rock Harbor vs Windigo: Which Side to Visit?

Planning a trip to Isle Royale National Park means deciding between Rock Harbor and Windigo. Each offers a unique experience and amenities. It's crucial to consider what you want from your visit.

Rock Harbor has more services, like restaurants, a lodge, and fishing charters. It's perfect for those who want comfort. The Rock Harbor Trail is challenging but leads to Three Mile campground with 11 sites.

Windigo is ideal for day trips, being closer to Minnesota. It lacks the amenities of Rock Harbor but offers direct access to trails and wilderness. It's great for those who love the outdoors.

Choosing between Rock Harbor and Windigo depends on what you prefer. Rock Harbor offers comfort, while Windigo provides a wilderness adventure.

"Isle Royale National Park is the least visited National Park of the lower 48, but it is the most re-visited National Park, indicating that visitors tend to return multiple times."

Best Time to Visit Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is a stunning wilderness in Lake Superior's heart. It's open from mid-April to October. Summer months, June to August, are the busiest, with pleasant weather.

The summer weather is cool and breezy. Visitors should pack layers. The island's location in Lake Superior means fog and weather can affect travel plans. Being flexible is key for a trip here.

Summer is the best time for outdoor fun and wildlife watching. But, be ready for the island's weather. With good planning, you can enjoy this beautiful, peaceful place.

Top Things to Do in Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is in Michigan's rugged wilderness. It offers many outdoor adventures. The park has 165 miles of scenic trails, from easy to hard.

Whether you want a short hike or a long backpacking trip, Isle Royale has it all. It's perfect for anyone who loves nature.

Hike the Scenic Trails

Put on your hiking boots and explore Isle Royale's forests, wetlands, and rocky spots. The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a favorite. It's 40 miles long and takes 3 to 7 days to finish.

It offers amazing views of lakes and chances to see wildlife. For a shorter hike, try the Suzy's Cave trail. It's a 3.8-mile round trip that takes about two hours.

Go Backpacking and Camping

Experience the wild of Isle Royale on a backpacking trip. There are 36 campgrounds, some with shelters. This lets you connect with nature fully.

Remember, Rock Harbor has a one-night stay limit. But Windigo allows up to three days of camping in a row.

Rent a Canoe or Kayak for Paddling

Rent a canoe or kayak to see Isle Royale from the water. You can do this at Rock Harbor or Windigo. Paddling lets you see the park's beauty from a new angle.

Make sure you're prepared and have the right gear for these water activities.

"Isle Royale National Park is the 'least-visited' national park in the lower 48, but it sees the most return visitors."

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Isle Royale National Park is a paradise for anglers. It offers fishing for many species like lake trout and salmon. You can fish in Lake Superior and the park's lakes and streams.

The park's history is fascinating. It has historic lighthouses and overlooks to explore. The Rock Harbor Lighthouse, lit in 1855, is a key landmark. It can be seen 15 miles into Lake Superior.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse keeper's house, now a museum. The Passage Island Light Station also offers great views of the waters.

Isle Royale is also known for its scenic overlooks. Places like Grace Creek Overlook and Minong Ridge Overlook are must-sees. They give you a chance to see the island's beauty and Lake Superior's vastness.

"Isle Royale National Park is the 'least-visited' national park in the lower 48 states, but it has the highest rate of return visitors among national parks in the contiguous U.S."

Wildlife Watching in Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is a paradise for wildlife lovers. It's home to many creatures, from majestic moose to elusive gray wolves. The park offers amazing chances to see these animals up close.

See Moose in Isle Royale

Visitors to Isle Royale often see the park's iconic moose. These large deer can be found in the wetlands and forests, especially near beaver ponds. Keep your camera ready for these unforgettable moments.

Spot Gray Wolves

Gray wolves in Isle Royale are harder to spot than moose. But hearing their haunting howls is a thrilling experience. Guided tours and educational programs can help you see these predators.

Isle Royale is not just about moose and wolves. It's also home to red foxes, ermines, mink, bats, and the Isle Royale red squirrel. Whether you love birds, photography, or just nature, Isle Royale offers an unforgettable adventure.

Where to Stay in Isle Royale National Park

Planning your visit to Isle Royale National Park in Michigan? You have three main choices: camping, Rock Harbor Lodge, and Windigo Camper Cabins. Each offers a unique experience. Think about what you prefer to make the most of your time on this rugged island.

Camping in Isle Royale

Isle Royale National Park has 36 campgrounds, but most are only for backpackers. However, two are easy to reach, one in Rock Harbor and the other in Windigo. You need a free permit for camping, and some campsites have stay limits.

Rock Harbor Lodge

Looking for comfort? Rock Harbor Lodge is your best bet. It has 60 rooms/suites and 20 cottages. Plus, there's a restaurant, grill, and gift shop for dining and shopping.

Windigo Camper Cabins

Want a rustic cabin experience? Try the Windigo Camper Cabins. They can hold up to six people and cost $50 per night. It's a cozy way to enjoy Isle Royale's wilderness.

Choosing where to stay is crucial. With limited spots and high demand, book early. This ensures you get your preferred dates.

Practical Tips for Visiting Isle Royale

Planning a trip to Isle Royale National Park? There are key things to think about for a great visit. This park is one of the least visited in the lower 48 states. So, it needs some extra planning.

First, know the park's entry fee. It's $7 per person daily, unless you have a Federal Lands Pass. Also, book your way to the island early. This is because ferry and seaplane spots fill up fast in peak season.

The park is open from mid-April to October. So, plan your trip for this time. The best weather and wildlife viewing is from early June to late August.

• Be ready for weather delays and no cell phone service on the island.
• Bring the right gear, like insect repellent, water filters, and hiking and camping equipment.
• Learn about the two main areas: Rock Harbor and Windigo. Choose the one that fits your plans best.

By following these tips, you can have a memorable trip to Isle Royale National Park. It's a remote and wild place.

"Isle Royale is one of the last great wilderness areas in the United States. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in nature." - Park Ranger, Isle Royale National Park

Sample Isle Royale Itineraries

Isle Royale National Park is a vast wilderness perfect for various adventures. You can choose from a quick day trip to a multi-day backpacking journey. The park has something for everyone, no matter how much time you have.

One Day in Isle Royale

If you only have a day, a day trip to Isle Royale is doable. You can take the ferry from Copper Harbor, Michigan to Rock Harbor, or the Sea Hunter III from Grand Portage, Minnesota to Windigo. This gives you about 4 hours to explore trails like the Scoville Point Trail and enjoy the park's beauty.

4 Day/3 Night Backpacking Itinerary

For those with more time, a 4-day, 3-night backpacking trip is available. Start by taking a ferry to Windigo or Rock Harbor, the island's main entry points. You can then hike through boreal forests, camp at scenic spots, and maybe see moose and wolves.

Here's a suggested 4-day backpacking plan:

1. Day 1: Hike the Greenstone Ridge Trail from Windigo to Three Mile campground
2. Day 2: Continue along the Greenstone Ridge Trail to Moskey Basin campground
3. Day 3: Explore the trails around Daisy Farm campground
4. Day 4: Hike back to Windigo or take the Rock Harbor water taxi to your departure point

This route lets you see the park's varied landscapes, from forests to lakes and shores. With good planning, a multi-day trip to Isle Royale is unforgettable.

Isle Royale National Park is perfect for escaping the world and connecting with nature. Whether you pick a day trip or a backpacking sample itinerary, the park's beauty and wildlife will stay with you.

Conclusion

Reflecting on your journey through Isle Royale National Park, you feel awe and appreciation. The scenic trails took you through lush forests and rugged shores. You also had thrilling paddling adventures and the chance to see moose and gray wolves.

Isle Royale's natural beauty, rich culture, and solitude make it special. Whether hiking, camping, fishing, or enjoying the quiet, it has made a lasting impression. Your time exploring this remote place is unforgettable.

Planning your next visit to Isle Royale? Know it's a park that draws visitors back. Its appeal and impact on those who explore it are unmatched. With good planning, you'll make the most of your visit and create memories that last.