Overview
Isle Royale National Park is a remote island wilderness located in the middle of Lake Superior. Known for its rugged beauty and isolation, it is one of the least-visited national parks in the lower 48 states, offering a true escape into nature. The park consists of one large island surrounded by over 450 smaller islands, encompassing a total area of about 850 square miles, including the surrounding waters. It is famous for its unique ecosystem, particularly the long-term study of its wolf and moose populations. Visitors come to Isle Royale for its world-class backpacking, kayaking, and scuba diving among shipwrecks. Due to its remote location and harsh winters, the park is entirely closed from November 1 through April 15 each year. Access is strictly by ferry, seaplane, or private boat, typically departing from Houghton or Copper Harbor, Michigan, or Grand Portage, Minnesota.
How to Get There
- •Ferries: The Ranger III (Houghton), Isle Royale Queen IV (Copper Harbor), and Voyageur II/Sea Hunter (Grand Portage).
- •Seaplanes: Isle Royale Seaplanes operates flights from Houghton, MI.
- •Private Boat: Boaters must cross open Lake Superior waters and check in at a ranger station upon arrival.
Isle Royale National Park
A remote island wilderness in Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park offers rugged hiking, world-class kayaking, and unique wildlife viewing in one of America's most isolated natural settings.
Links
Location
Isle Royale National Park, MI
800 East Lakeshore Drive
Michigan, United States, 49931
Top Activities
- •Backpacking and hiking across over 165 miles of trails.
- •Canoeing and kayaking through inland lakes and coastal waters.
- •Scuba diving to explore some of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.
- •Wildlife viewing, including moose, wolves, and diverse bird species.
- •Fishing for lake trout, brook trout, and northern pike.
- •Guided tours and interpretive programs led by park rangers.
Visitor Information
The park headquarters and a primary visitor center are located in Houghton, Michigan. Additional visitor centers are located on the island at Rock Harbor (east end) and Windigo (west end). All visitors are required to pay a daily entrance fee, which can be paid online in advance. Reservations for ferries and seaplanes are highly recommended well in advance of travel.