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One of the least-visited national parks in the country, Isle Royale National Park welcomed about 25,000 visitors in 2022. Since its establishment in 1940, the park has had just over 1.2 million tourists. This is a stark contrast to the 3.6 million people who drove through the entrance of Yosemite in a single year.
So, is Isle Royale National Park worth visiting? Today, we’ll take a closer look at this isolated Michigan park and give you three suggestions for things to do if you decide to visit. Let’s dive in!
Pro Tip: Check out these top-notch camping spots in the Upper Peninsula!
Where Is Isle Royale National Park?
Isle Royale National Park is one of the most remote sites in the Lower 48. The island is in Lake Superior, north of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Because of its remote and northern location, Isle Royale National Park is closed annually from November 1 to April 15. The waters are still open to boaters, but visitor centers and park amenities are closed.
Like Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida, Isle Royale isn’t accessible by car. You can only reach the national park via ferries or seaplanes. If you take a ferry, your vehicle must remain on the mainland.
One option is to depart from Houghton, Michigan aboard the Ranger III or an Isle Royale Seaplane. Both options arrive on the east end of the national park at Rock Harbor. Another option is to depart from Copper Harbor, Michigan aboard the Isle Royale Queen IV. This ferry also arrives at Rock Harbor.
From Minnesota, visitors can board the Voyageur II or Sea Hunter III in Grand Portage. You’ll arrive on the west end of the national park at Windigo. A second option from Minnesota is traveling to Isle Royale via an Isle Royale Seaplane from Grand Marais. The seaplane goes to both Rock Harbor and Windigo, so you can choose your destination when booking.
When Did Isle Royale National Park Become A National Park?
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established Isle Royale National Park on April 3, 1940. In 1976, the park became part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Over 99% of the land in Isle Royale National Park is designated wilderness. In 1980, the park was also selected as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve.
What’s So Special About Isle Royale National Park?
Isle Royale is 45 miles long, encompassing a little over 200 square miles. It’s the fourth-largest lake island in the world. This remote island archipelago and surrounding waters cover a total area of 850 square miles.
Within its boundaries, there are 165 miles of scenic hiking trails and opportunities for camping, paddling, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Tourists also visit historic lighthouses, shipwrecks, and ancient copper mining sites.
Because of its remote location, Isle Royale National Park is a stark contrast to the bustling parks of Zion, Yellowstone, and Grand Canyon. This Michigan national park offers quiet solitude and isolation away from modern civilization.
This undeveloped, rugged archipelago is home to a fascinating ecosystem that researchers have been studying for years. You might see moose, wolves, river otters, beavers, frogs, toads, salamanders, grouse, and cranes.
3 Most Popular Attractions In Isle Royale National Park
Since Isle Royale National Park is only open during certain months of the year, it’s important to plan your trip according to those dates. There are no transportation services from November 1 to April 15.
We suggest visiting in the summer months because they’re the most comfortable, and all of the activities and amenities will be available. Here are our suggestions of the best things to do to fully experience Isle Royale National Park!
1. Enjoy the Water Via Kayak or Boat
Since Isle Royale is surrounded by Lake Superior, one of the best ways to dive into this national park is on the water. Of the 850 square miles, almost 700 of them are waterways. If you don’t bring your own canoe or kayak, boat rentals are available at Windigo and Rock Harbor.
Although you can’t use motors in the inland lakes and streams, they are permitted on Lake Superior. There are also several campgrounds accessible via the water for campers looking to pitch a tent for the night. If you choose to paddle or boat in Isle Royale National Park, ensure that you get the most up-to-date weather information, as the waters of Lake Superior are unpredictable.
2. Visit Rock Harbor
Rock Harbor is one of the destinations for seaplanes and ferries. It’s on the east end of the park. The visitor center is an ideal place to start your adventure. Ask rangers questions, get the latest weather forecast, browse the displays and exhibits, and obtain backcountry permits here.
There are also short hiking trails in this part of the national park, like the 4.2-mile Scoville Point loop and the 3.8-mile Suzy’s Cove loop. Paddlers can take their canoes to Lookout Louise or Raspberry Island. In addition, visitors can learn more about the history of the Edisen Fishery or walk to Rock Harbor Lighthouse in this part of Isle Royale National Park.
3. Book A Keweenaw Waterway Cruise
Although this cruise doesn’t actually make it to the park, it’s an excellent opportunity to take the Ranger II boat and explore the waterway. Because these cruises book quickly and sell out, we highly suggest making reservations in advance.
Reservations begin June 1 for the upcoming season, and cruises happen on scheduled Thursdays during the summer. The cruises depart from the Houghton Visitor Center at 12:30 p.m. It’s $36 per adult and $18 for kids ages 1-15.
Pro Tip: If you’re wanting to visit Michigan in the fall, look at these optimal camping sites for fall foliage!
If you’re into adventure, we recommend booking a dive charter with Isle Royale Charters to explore shipwrecks in the national park. All divers must be certified. During your dive, you might visit the shipwrecks of the Chisholm Engine, Cumberland/Chisholm, Cox, America, Emperor Stern and Bow, Congdon Bow, Monarch, Algoma, and the Glenlyon. Isle Royale Charters runs trips from June through mid-September, usually consisting of five days.
Best Places For Camping Near Isle Royale National Park
All camping inside Isle Royale National Park is primitive and isolated. There are 36 campgrounds accessible only by foot or watercraft. They only accommodate tents. If you’re looking for a place for RVs, you must stay on the mainland.
McLain State Park is a nearby option. Fishing, windsurfing, berry picking, and beachcombing are popular activities. Sunsets are also breathtaking here. The City of Houghton RV Park is a full hook-up campground with 25 campsites. There’s a public swimming beach and playground and easy access to conveniences like restaurants, pubs, and shops.
Is Visiting Isle Royale National Park Worth It?
Although Isle Royale National Park is remote and isolated, this adds to the overall experience. It’s a fantastic place where visitors find peace and refuge in the island wilderness. Adventure awaits hikers, backpackers, boaters, divers, and paddlers. But be prepared for the wilderness. You won’t find the standard amenities here that are at other national parks. Venture to Isle Royale National Park to escape those amenities and reconnect with the beautiful landscape.
Would you like to visit this Michigan national park?
