How to Visit: Isle Royale National Park

How to Visit: Isle Royale National Park

Guide to the least visited National Park in the continental US (and one of the most magical!) Total trip time: 3-7 days Nearest major cities to start from: - Illinois: Chicago - Minnesota: Duluth, Minneapolis - Wisconsin: Green Bay - Michigan: Marquette
Updated ago
5
Share

Isle Royale

Isle Royale National Park
@anitheadventurer
"Explore a rugged, isolated island far from our connected communities. Isle Royale offers adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, paddlers, and divers. Cross Lake Superior and make a commitment: Become a part of this island, and let it become a part of you. Find peace and refuge in island wilderness – because Isle Royale, in turn, finds refuge in us. Help Isle Royale stay wild."
Add to
Details

Things to know

Isle Royale National Park is open every year from April 16 through October 31.  It is closed in the winter because of extreme weather conditions.

While some people may enjoy a weekend trip to Isle Royale, staying at the lodge in Rock Harbor... this is a backpackers' National Park.  I highly recommend you plan this trip carefully to make it successful and fun!

There is no cell service on the island.

Running water is only available at either end of the Island (Windigo and Rock Harbor).  You will need to filter and treat your water anywhere else.

Getting to Isle Royale

Choose your Port City

Voyages to Isle Royale National Park happen from only a handful of port cities, which makes it that much more special.

I started in Houghton, Michigan, which is where the park is headquartered.

Select your Transportation

Isle Royale can only be reached by seaplane or boat.  There are merits to both.  The seaplane is much faster and gives you a unique perspective of Lake Superior and Isle Royale, but it is significantly more expensive. 

The ferry is a longer voyage, but it is more cost effective and your get to spend more time taking in the beauty of Lake Superior.

I took the Ranger III ferry from Houghton to Isle Royale, which took approximately 6 hours.  To put that in perspective, the seaplane only takes about 35 minutes from Houghton.

Determine your Starting Point

There are two starting points on Isle Royale - Windigo and Rock Harbor. This may depend on the backpacking route you choose, or it may depend on the port city/transportation type that works best for your schedule.

Rock Harbor has more amenities (including lodging), while Windigo is more wild and remote.  I landed in Windigo and backpacked to Rock Harbor.

Sample Backpacking Routes

I created four sample backpacking routes to get you started, but please only use them as a launching point for your own trip planning.  Consider factors like: fitness level, number of days you would like to spend on Isle Royale, your starting point, etc.

The Greenstone Newspaper has so much information about Isle Royale, including maps, mileage between campsites, and other things to do on the island.

Short Rock Harbor Loop (4 days, 14.2 miles)

This is the perfect beginners backpacking route.  With low mileage per day and staying close to Rock Harbor, this is a well trafficked route that does not skimp on the beauty of Isle Royale.

Three Mile (2.7 miles)

Lane Cove (4.6 miles)

Rock Harbor (6.9 miles)

Rock Harbor Loop (7 days, 31.9 miles)

This route is for those that want to disconnect for a week and immerse themselves in the magic of Isle Royale, but don't want high mileage.

Three Mile (2.7 miles)

Daisy Farm (4.4 miles)

Moskey Basin (3.9 miles)

Chickenbone W (5.9 miles)

Daisy Farm (7.9 miles)

Rock Harbor (7.1 miles)

Windigo - Rock Harbor (5 days, 44 miles)

This is the route I took on my first trip to Isle Royale.  If you would like to hike the island from point to point and you enjoy longer mileage days, this is a great itinerary. 

Island Mine (6.6 miles)

Hatchet Lake (13 miles)

Moskey Basin (13.4 miles)

Rock Harbor (11 miles)

Northern Trail (7 days, 57 miles)

Significantly less hikers venture to the north side of the island, so this route is perfect for those that enjoy variable mileage days, as well as some solitude.

Huginnin Cove (4.0 miles)

Desor N (14.4 miles)

Little Todd (5.7 miles)

McCargoe Cove (13.5 miles)

Moskey Basin (8.4 miles)

Rock Harbor (11 miles)

Other Things to Do

Paddling

Isle Royale has numerous inland lakes, bays, and small islands.  So, there are miles of waterways that await experienced canoeists and kayakers.

Lake Superior is not forgiving and is well-known for its cold waters, fog, and sudden squalls.  Small, open vessels are encouraged by the National Park Service to use interior lake waterways.

Explore several campsites that are only accessible by paddlers for a unique Isle Royale experience.

Fishing

Choose from the reefs and bays of Lake Superior or the numerous interior lakes and streams on Isle Royale for recreational fishing. 

A Michigan fishing license is required for fishing on Lake Superior, but no license is required for fishing the inland lakes.  See the park website for local fishing regulations.

The Comforts of Home

If backpacking is not your thing, Rock Harbor has lodging (Lakeside Lodge Rooms and Housekeeping Cabins), a gift shop, a dockside store, a marina, and a restaurant.  Book your accommodations early and enjoy day hikes and leisurely exploring the island.

Windigo has less amenities, including two rustic cabins and a small general store.

Houghton

As the launching point for many Isle Royale adventures, Houghton is a cute, small town that is worth exploring.

Trails

Hungarian Falls
@anitheadventurer
Hungarian Falls: 1.7 miles (moderate)
Add to
Details
Mont Ripley Overlook Trail
@anitheadventurer
Mont Ripley Overlook Trail: 1.0 miles (easy) A townie ski hill that offers beautiful views of Houghton and Hancock during the off-season.
Add to
Details

Things to Do

Houghton
@anitheadventurer
Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and exploring the many trails around Houghton. Places like Maasto Hiihto and Churning Rapids offer excellent opportunities for local biking and trail running. Quincy Mine: Take a guided tour of the Quincy Mine to learn about the area's mining history. The tour takes you underground and provides insights into copper mining. Fishing and Water Activities: Enjoy fishing, boating, or kayaking on Portage Lake or the nearby rivers and lakes. The area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Local Shopping: Pick up your souvenir from the copper country by visiting the local shops in Houghton and Hancock. Events and Festivals: Check out if there are any events or festivals happening during your visit. The area often hosts cultural events, music festivals, and local fairs.
Add to
Details
McLain State Park
@anitheadventurer
Great state park for camping, hiking/walking, mushroom foraging, and agate picking. I've also seen the Northern Lights from here a few times.
Add to
Details
Camp Coffee Company
@anitheadventurer
This local coffee spot leans into the high-end hipster vibe. Camp Coffee offers unique coffee drinks and small bites. It is the only place in town to get an acai bowl.
Add to
Details
The Studio Pizza
@anitheadventurer
With gluten free and vegan options, this is my favorite spot in town to get a slice. Studio is also a performing arts spot, so check their event page if you would like to see a local performance. This is a carryout pizza spot, so recommend taking your pie down to Porvoo Park and enjoying your pizza on the portage.
Add to
Details
Keweenaw Co+op Market and Deli
@anitheadventurer
Great local co-op, filled with bulk goods, fresh produce, and bakery items. There is a sandwich stall in the back, for soups and made to order sandwiches. Additionally, plenty of ready-made meals and snacks, if you want something on the go.
Add to
Details

Places to Stay

Campgrounds

Hancock Recreation Area
@anitheadventurer
At this campground, there are 72 campsites to choose from - 58 for recreational vehicles (with electric power) and 14 tent sites. The campsites are situated in a natural rustic setting among a densely wooded stand of conifers and various northern hardwoods and softwoods. The campground contains restrooms, shower facilities and a laundry. Firewood and ice is available for purchase from the attendant. Enjoy nature walks among the park's trails.
Add to
Details
City of Houghton RV Park
@anitheadventurer
The City of Houghton RV Park is a small establishment that prides itself on being able to provide personal service and to schedule as many guests in as possible. They schedule by telephone only and open May 1st.
Add to
Details

For van-lifers and car-dwellers: there is ample parking on side streets in Houghton.  Additionally, most of the city parking areas allow overnight parking from April - November.

Hotel Options

Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton
@anitheadventurer
Offering free Wi-Fi and cable TV in every room, this Houghton hotel is 2 minutes’ walk from Portage Lake and Dee Stadium. A refrigerator, a microwave and a coffee-making facilities are provided in all rooms at Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton. A private bathroom equipped with a hairdryer is provided in every room. Free parking is provided to all guests at Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton. A fitness center with cardiovascular equipment is offered on site. The reception desk is available 24-hours a day.
Add to
Details
Ramada by Wyndham Hancock Waterfront
@anitheadventurer
Offering a restaurant, Ramada Hancock Waterfront is located in Hancock. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning. Featuring a bath or shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries. Extras include a desk. At Ramada Hancock Waterfront you will find a communal sauna, a hot tub and a 24-hour front desk. Other facilities offered at the property include water sports facilities. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including fishing.
Add to
Details
Independence Stay Hotel & Long Term Suites
@anitheadventurer
Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites has accommodations with a fitness center and free private parking. At the hotel, the rooms are equipped with a closet and a flat-screen TV. Featuring a private bathroom with a bath and a hairdryer, rooms at Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites also have free WiFi. All rooms at the accommodation feature air conditioning and a desk. Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area.
Add to
Details

An Anecdote

Isle Royale holds a special place in my heart.  I always hope to meet amazing people and make new friends when traveling, and there is no place where that has been truer than during my adventures on Isle Royale.

After a restful night sleep under the parking deck, I brushed my teeth in the public restroom and went to the National Park headquarters.  I boarded the Ranger III and settled into my six-hour voyage across Lake Superior.  I had flashbacks to my time on the Yankee Freedom, but thankfully the lady of the lake was generous and we had a smooth ride the whole way.  

I stepped out to get some fresh air and I met Dan, a retired teacher and avid birder.  We talked for the remainder of the ride and ended up sharing a campfire the first night.

Once we docked and took our first steps on Isle Royale, I took off alone.  I had almost 7 miles to cover and I was anxious to get on the move.  As I approached Island Mine campsite, I fell into step with five guys, who were hiking together.  Turns out we had nearly identical itineraries, and after sipping whiskey around the campfire the first night, we decided to keep hiking together.

The "Live Laugh Love" boys ended up transforming my Isle Royale experience in the best way.  What I thought would be four days of solitude and self-reflection became four days of laughter, self-timer pictures, stories (both real and fiction), and taking in the stunning surroundings together.  I was sad when we parted ways, but so grateful to have crossed paths in the first place.

In the morning, I packed up my things and went to the Ranger III, thinking I would be alone for the journey back.  As I waited for the boarding process to begin, I began talking to another solo hiker named Kevin.  We ended up chatting and playing Bananagrams the entire ride back.

Once we got back to Houghton, I waved goodbye to Kevin and started reflecting on all the wonderful people I met over the last few days.  My heart was full when my phone dinged that I had a match on Hinge, asking if I wanted to go for a celebratory dinner when I got back form Isle Royale.

That is when I met Beau.  He had lived in Houghton for the last 10 years, so he showed me around town and took me to get vegan pizza.  We talked for hours, while sitting along the Portage.  But, as was the nature of my current lifestyle, I left that night with a flimsy possibility of "maybe we will see each other again someday."

Fast forward a few months.

I spent Fourth of July that year with Dan and his family in Colorado.

Kevin and I have backpacked/camped in Banff and Pictured Rocks (Michigan) over the last year, and we are always inspiring each other to do the next big adventure.

And... Beau and I are dating.  We've been together ever since and I currently live in Houghton.  But, I will save that story for another time.

So, keep your heart open to meeting new people when traveling.  You never know the people that will walk into your life.

* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Welcome to my (and hopefully our) adventures! I have lived all over the United States, and I have a passion for the outdoors and budget-travel. My style of travel is easy-going, yet filled with adventure and excitement. I focus on connecting with people and community, as well as immersing myself in the outdoors as much as possible. Finding a balance between these two have led to some amazing memories, and I cannot wait to share them with you. Most recently, I lived in my car for over seven months, while I visited every National Park in the lower 48. I hiked, camped, met amazing people, and hiked some more. I got to experience the parks like a local, because I had no timetable, no flights to catch, no rental car to return, etc. Some parks I stayed only for a few hours, and others for over a week. I chatted with park rangers, stayed with people that lived nearby, and camped with others at some amazing campsites. The travel guides I share give you an "insider" look at the national park, with tips for the best hikes, tricks for finding campsites (but I always include hotel options too), as well as information about the various aspects of the parks. I hope that you will use these guides as tools to fuel your next national park adventure!
Send A Tip
Support Ani Danelz | National Park Guide’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Ani Danelz | National Park Guide 2024 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places