Michigan Bucket List: Isle Royale National Park

Isabella Cannon

| 4 min read

Michigan Outdoors
Things To Do
Community
Are you looking for an off-the-grid adventure? Isle Royale National Park is an archipelago in Lake Superior with more than 400 islands. The main island, Isle Royale, is approximately 50 miles long with a variety of trails and campgrounds. 
This remote destination, approximately 60 miles off the coast of the Keweenaw Peninsula, offers breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife and endless adventure opportunities. Isle Royale National Park is one of the least-visited national parks in the United States. Isle Royale is famously home to wolves and moose, which you may see on a hike. Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or looking for a unique getaway, Isle Royale promises an unforgettable journey.

Getting to Isle Royale

Since Isle Royale is a collection of islands, you’ll need to take a boat or seaplane to get there. There are ferry services departing from Houghton and Copper Harbor in Michigan and Grand Marais and Grand Portage in Minnesota, with one-way travel times ranging from 1.5 to 7 hours.
Depending on the day, your ferry ride might be smooth sailing or a choppy adventure as Lake Superior can be unpredictable. Seaplane options are also available for a quicker trip. Vehicles are not allowed in the park, so pack light and prepare for a completely immersive wilderness experience.

Things to Do

Isle Royale is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with activities for every level of adventurer. Some popular things to do include:
  • Backpacking: Explore 165 miles of trails winding through boreal forests, Northern hardwoods, rocky ridges and rugged lake shorelines.
  • Camping: Choose from 36 campgrounds, ranging from secluded backcountry sites to those near docks for boaters.
  • Hiking: Take a day hike or a multi-day trek through Greenstone Ridge Trail.
  • Fishing: Fish in the park’s inland lakes or the waters of Lake Superior.
  • Scuba diving: Discover shipwrecks beneath the surface of the lake.
  • Canoeing and kayaking: Paddle along the shores and explore smaller islands.
  • Guided boat tours: Learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and history from expert guides.

Best Time to Visit

Isle Royale is open from April 16 to Oct. 31 each year, with the most popular months being July and August when the weather is warmest. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, consider visiting in late spring or early fall.

Where to Stay

Isle Royale offers several overnight options depending on how you like to experience the outdoors:
  • Backpackers: Hike or paddle to a new campground each night.
  • Basecampers: Set up at one campground and explore during the day.
  • Boaters: Stay aboard your vessel and tie up at a dock.
  • Lodge guests: Enjoy the comfort of Rock Harbor Lodge or Windigo Camper Cabins.

Dining on the Island

There are no grocery stores on Isle Royale, so most visitors bring their own food. However, there are a few dining options for those looking for a hot meal:
  • Rock Harbor Lodge has two restaurants: Lighthouse Restaurant and Greenstone Grill.
  • Camp Stores in Rock Harbor and Windigo sell basic supplies, snacks and drinks.

What to Bring

With limited services and unreliable cell phone service in the park, it’s important to come prepared. Pack for changing weather and terrain including:
  • Layers 
  • Rain gear
  • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
  • Extra food
  • First aid kit
  • Water filter or purifier
  • Prescription medications
If you prefer to bring your pets on camping trips with you, note that pets are not allowed on Isle Royale unless they are service dogs. An advance permit is required.
Because of the island’s remote location and rules and regulations, take time to plan before you go. Consider your health and fitness levels before making a trip. For more information, including National Parks Service fees, permits and weather conditions, visit Isle Royale National Park (U.S. National Park Service).
Whether you're hiking through forests, paddling past rocky cliffs or enjoying the great outdoors, a trip to this national park is truly a Michigan bucket list item.
Photo credit: Getty Images
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