Wilderness Wonders: Exploring Isle Royale's Untamed Beauty
/
Isle Royale National Park, a hidden gem located in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior, is a pristine island wilderness, untouched and unspoiled, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. As one of the most remote national parks, it offers an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking to retreat from the demands of daily life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
Isle Royale has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. The island was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Ojibwa (Chippewa) people, who referred to it as "Minong," meaning "the good place". They used the island for fishing, hunting, and gathering.
In the 17th century, European explorers and fur traders began to visit Isle Royale. The island's abundant natural resources, including copper, attracted early mining operations. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Isle Royale became a popular destination for fishing, logging, and tourism.
In 1940, Isle Royale was designated as a National Park, preserving its unique wilderness and natural beauty. The park was later designated as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve in 1980 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2019 as the Minong Traditional Cultural Property.
Today, Isle Royale National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The island's history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Isle Royale National Park offers two main ports of entry: Windigo and Rock Harbor.
Windigo: This port is located on the western end of the island and is known for its rugged beauty and remoteness. It's a popular starting point for backpackers and those looking to explore the more secluded parts of the island.
Rock Harbor: Situated on the eastern side, Rock Harbor is the largest and most developed port. It offers a range of amenities including lodging, dining, and guided tours. This port is ideal for visitors who prefer a bit more comfort and convenience.
Both ports provide stunning views and access to the island's extensive network of trails and waterways. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Isle Royale's ports cater to a variety of interests and preferences.
Whether you choose to start your adventure at Windigo or Rock Harbor, you'll need to consider your transportation options for getting to the island. Isle Royale offers a variety of transportation methods to suit different preferences and schedules. From the exhilarating speed of a seaplane to the leisurely pace of a ferry, each option promises its own unique experience and sets the tone for your island journey. Let's explore the ways you can reach this remote and captivating national park.
Ferries depart from both Michigan and Minnesota.
Ranger III: Embark on a six-hour journey from Houghton, Michigan, to Rock Harbor, passing through the scenic Keweenaw Waterway and under the world's largest lift bridge. The Ranger III provides a unique opportunity to experience the vastness of Lake Superior.
Being the largest of the boats, this is an excellent choice for those who are prone to seasickness, providing a smoother and more stable ride.
Ranger Talks offer informative and engaging presentations about the park’s natural and cultural history, enhancing your journey with valuable insights.
Offers a well-stocked snack bar, offering a variety of refreshments to enjoy during the voyage.
Isle Royale Queen IV: Leaving from Copper Harbor, MI, the Queen IV is a smaller vessel than the Ranger, but a quicker ride to Isle Royale. Only taking 3.5 hours, this is a great option for those with a tighter schedule.
As a smaller vessel, the Isle Royale Queen IV may not handle rough waters as well as the larger Ranger. If you are prone to seasickness, this may not be the ideal choice, so it’s advisable to have Dramamine on hand.
The journey provides a fantastic opportunity to engage with fellow hikers, canoeists, and adventurers, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.
At the dock, you’ll find a gift shop, coffee shop, and pastry shop, perfect for grabbing coffee and a bite to eat if you miss breakfast.
Onboard, the ship offers coffee, snacks, and a bathroom for your convenience.
Voyageur II: Based in Grand Portage, MN, this boat offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the perimeter of Isle Royale. With multiple stops at various trailheads and paddling embarkation points, passengers can fully immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty and adventure.
It is only a 2-hour ride from Grand Portage to its first stop, Windigo.
Only vessel that offers intra-island travel for those wishing to move from point to point on the island without hiking.
65' twin engine diesel vessel offering service around the island every 2 days
Sea Hunter III: is also a 65-ft twin engine diesel vessel, but unlike other ferries, this vessel provides a tour-like format, making the journey as memorable as the destination. On the inbound trip, the Sea Hunter III wraps around Hat Point, visits Witches Tree, navigates through the Susie Islands, and hovers over the historic America Wreck. The outbound trip includes a visit to the iconic Rock of Ages Lighthouse, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.
This vessel is an excellent option for day-trippers to Isle Royale. You will arrive around 10 AM and have 4 hours to enjoy hiking, a picnic lunch, shopping for souvenirs and snacks at the Washington Harbor Store and exploring the exhibits at the visitor center.
The Sea Hunter III cruises smoother in rough seas and operates at a faster pace than the Voyageur II, ensuring a comfortable and swift journey.
No matter which vessel you choose, each offers a unique and memorable Lake Superior experience. The Ranger III provides a stable and informative journey, perfect for those prone to seasickness. The Isle Royale Queen IV offers a faster transit for those on a tight schedule, though it may be less comfortable in rough waters. The Voyageur II allows for in-depth exploration with multiple stops around the island, ideal for adventurers. The Sea Hunter III combines sightseeing with convenience, making it perfect for day-trippers looking to enjoy a variety of activities on the island. Each boat operates on specific days, so ensure that your choice fits seamlessly with your itinerary. Double-check schedules and consider booking through multiple companies if necessary to match your travel plans.
If boats or rough waters aren't your thing, there's a fantastic alternative for reaching Isle Royale: seaplane. Isle Royale Seaplanes, based in Hubbell, MI, is the sole company offering flights to the island, with routes to both Windigo and Rock Harbor. A seaplane ride promises a thrilling adventure with stunning aerial views of Lake Superior and the island. The flight is much quicker, taking only 25-45 minutes compared to a 6-hour boat ride, and offers the unique experience of taking off and landing on water. Plus, seaplanes provide more flexibility, landing at different spots on the island for a variety of exploration options.
Once your journey to Isle Royale is arranged, whether by boat or seaplane, the next step is finding the perfect place to stay. The island offers a range of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets, from rustic campsites nestled in nature to cozy lodges with modern amenities.
Camper Cabins
For a more rustic and secluded stay, consider the Windigo Camper Cabins. Situated just uphill from the boat launch, these two cabins accommodate up to six people. They are equipped with a table, chairs, a full-size futon, bunk beds with mattresses, electrical outlets, and lighting. Each cabin also features a picnic table and a propane grill, with a water spigot and privy conveniently located nearby. It's the perfect home base for those looking to disconnect and unwind after a long hike, offering a cozy retreat in the heart of nature.
Rock Harbor Lodge
For those who seek an even greater balance of adventure and comfort, the Rock Harbor Lodge provides a more luxurious stay, featuring private bathrooms, two dining options, and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. The lodge also provides guided tours for guests. This lodge is ideal for guests seeking relaxation after a day of exploration, whether it involves hiking scenic trails, paddling tranquil waters, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the island. The lodge offers modern conveniences while ensuring guests remain immersed in the island's pristine beauty, making it an ideal choice for a memorable and rejuvenating getaway.
For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt to camp at one of the many designated campsites on the island. These sites range from more developed locations with amenities to backcountry spots where you can truly connect with the wilderness. You can choose to pitch a tent along the serene shores of Lake Superior or in the dense interior forests, each offering a unique perspective of Isle Royale's natural splendor.
Please note the following guidelines: Camping for groups of six or fewer operates on a first-come, first-served basis. For groups larger than six, reservations are mandatory. Permits are required for all overnight stays at campgrounds, cross-country sites, docks, or while anchored.
Additionally, guided excursions and educational programs are available for those who wish to delve deeper into the island's rich ecosystem and history. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a casual nature lover, Isle Royale offers an array of activities and accommodations to suit your adventure, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling visit.
Hiking is the most popular activity on the island, with 165 miles of trails and 36 campsites. Many visitors plan cross-country hikes, but those who prefer day trips can stay at Rock Harbor Lodge for a comfortable base camp.
For those interested in crossing the island on foot, some extra planning is needed. Here are some things to ask while planning this experience:
Do you want to go from Windigo to Rock Harbor, or vise versa?
Does your schedule align with the ferry timetable?
How far to do you want to travel in a day?
I highly recommend doing less than more so you can stop and take in the beauty of Isle Royale while traversing it.
Pre-plan what campsites you want to stay at.
Have back-up sites as they are first-come, first-serve
An additional permit is needed to backpack across the island.
Pack for all weather situations
No fires are permitted so plan meals accordingly
There are guided backpacking tours available for those interested in traveling across the island but prefer not to do it alone.
For those who prefer to have a base camp, Rock Harbor Lodge is conveniently located near numerous picturesque trailheads that lead to the shoreline, lighthouses, and historic mining caves. Rock Harbor Lodge also provides various services, including guided kayak and canoe tours, diving excursions to explore old shipwrecks, as well as sailing and fishing charters. Additionally, guests can attend scheduled Ranger Talks to gain insights about Isle Royale, covering topics such as the indigenous inhabitants, copper mining history, and the wolf and moose populations.
Wildlife
For the wildlife enthusiasts, one of the island's most fascinating aspects lies in its unique dynamic relationship between the moose and wolf populations. These two species have been the subject of extensive study, providing a captivating glimpse into the ecological balance and natural evolution of Isle Royale.
The moose arrived on the island by swimming in the early 1900s, whereas the wolves crossed during the winter of 1948 when an ice bridge formed. Since then, researchers have observed how fluctuations in wolf and moose populations affect each other, demonstrating the intricate balance that sustains the island's ecosystem. For example, when wolf numbers are high, moose populations tend to decrease due to increased predation. Conversely, when wolf numbers decline, the moose population often increases, leading to changes in vegetation and habitat structure.
Whether you're seeking solace in the serenity of nature, embarking on a thrilling adventure, or delving into the island's rich history and diverse wildlife, Isle Royale promises an unforgettable journey. Make your dream getaway a reality by contacting me today. I can help you plan every detail, ensuring your visit to Isle Royale is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Embrace the call of the wild and let Isle Royale's breathtaking landscapes and captivating experiences leave a lasting imprint on your soul.
