Last updated on December 16th, 2024 at 07:56 am
Why Hike Isle Royale?
If the idea of hiking in a place with no roads, few people, and plenty of wild spaces, Isle Royale is the calling you. As one of the most remote national parks in the United States, this island is only accessible by ferry or seaplane. The park provides ample of opportunities to spot moose, gaze at the stars, and enjoy long stretches of natural beauty.
Isle Royale is open from mid-April to October. But July to September is the peak season for hikers. If you want to avoid crowds and have cooler temperatures, aim for early or late in the season.
For park details, check the National Park Service website.
Preparing for Your Isle Royale Hike
Before the start of visit, it’s essential to prepare. Isle Royale has no stores, so you must bring everything. Including food, water filters, first aid supplies, and appropriate clothing. Weather can shift quickly, and rain showers are common.
Own Experience: Sturdy hiking boots were a lifesaver for me. Isle Royale’s trails are rocky, and rain can turn paths slippery. Packing light and investing in good boots can make a huge difference.
Top 10 Hiking Trails on Isle Royale
Greenstone Ridge Trail – The Ultimate Isle Adventure
Distance: 40 miles (64 km)
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: 3-5 days
The Greenstone Ridge Trail is the most well-known trail on Isle Royale. It runs nearly the entire length of the island. With open views stretching over Lake Superior and Canada on clear days. This trail delivers both challenges and rewards. Experienced hikers will appreciate its rugged terrain and variety, from rocky ridges to forested sections.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views across Lake Superior
- Campsites spaced for multi-day hiking
- Wildlife sightings, including moose and the elusive Isle Royale wolves
Tip: The trail has some steep sections, so trekking poles are helpful. They made climbs easier for me and prevented slips on the descents.
Tobin Harbor Trail – A Quick Scenic Route
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1-2 hours
For those wanting a short, beautiful trail, Tobin Harbor Trail near Rock Harbor is ideal. It’s a flat, easy path with stunning views of Tobin Harbor’s sparkling waters and lush shorelines. Great for a quick morning or sunset walk. This trail lets you enjoy the beauty of Isle Royale without a strenuous hike.
Highlights:
- Crystal-clear harbor views
- Opportunities to see otters, birds, and other wildlife
- Perfect for beginners or those with limited time
Scoville Point Loop – A Trail with Dramatic Lake Views
Distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 2-3 hours
If you’re staying near Rock Harbor, the Scoville Point Loop is an excellent choice for a half-day hike. The path leads you through thick woods and rocky shorelines. It ends with panoramic views of Lake Superior.
Highlights:
- Expansive views of Lake Superior
- Accessible for hikers of all skill levels
- Great picnic spots with lake views
Own Tip: Bring a snack and take in the lake views on the rocks near the trail’s end.
Feldtmann Lake Trail – A Quiet Lake Experience
Distance: 9.6 miles (15.4 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Time Required: 1-2 days
The Feldtmann Lake Trail gives hikers a chance to experience Isle Royale’s quieter side. This trail runs through deep forests and wetlands, with some of the best moose-spotting areas on the island.
Highlights:
- Remote setting with peaceful campsites
- Chance of watching moose, especially at dawn or dusk
- Ideal for hikers wanting to experience wilderness camping
Huginnin Cove Loop – A Hidden Gem on Isle Royale
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 1-2 days
For a quiet, scenic escape, try the Huginnin Cove Loop. This trail is less traveled, leading to a rocky cove with stunning views of Lake Superior. It’s a peaceful trail where you can enjoy solitude and natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Stunning lake views from a secluded cove
- Quiet campsites with few other visitors
- Amazing sunsets over the lake
Own Experience: I spent a night here, and the cove was so quiet I could hear only the waves. Watching the sunset from Huginnin Cove is a memory that stays with me.
Daisy Farm Trail – A Family-Friendly Option
Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km) round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 4-5 hours
Daisy Farm Trail is popular among families and beginner hikers. The trail offers a moderately challenging path with plenty of natural beauty. The trail is shaded and follows the shoreline. It ends at Daisy Farm campground, one of the most accessible campsites on Isle Royale.
Highlights:
- Scenic views along the shoreline
- Family-friendly route with picnic spots
- Access to Daisy Farm campsite
Tip: Bring a lunch and have a picnic by the lake. It’s a perfect spot to rest and take in the views.
Rock Harbor Trail – Classic Isle Royale Experience
Distance: 4.4 miles (7.1 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 3-4 hours
Rock Harbor Trail offers a good mix of lake views, forests, and rocky paths. It’s a favorite for many hikers as it runs close to Rock Harbor and offers views of nearby islands.
Highlights:
- Varied scenery with lakes, islands, and forested paths
- Moderate challenge suitable for many fitness levels
- Easily accessible from Rock Harbor
Personal Note: This trail was a great warm-up hike for longer trails on the island. I enjoyed the varied terrain and the peacefulness.
Lane Cove Trail – For True Wilderness Seekers
Distance: 6.9 miles (11.1 km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Time Required: Full day
For those seeking solitude, the Lane Cove Trail is an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The trail heads into remote areas, with views of coves and shorelines. If you wnat to fully enjoy Island’s natural beauty, camp at Lane Cove.
Highlights:
- Quiet, scenic coves with forested campsites
- A true sense of isolation
- Chance to see a variety of birds and marine life
Own Tip: The trail is challenging, so be prepared with good footwear and enough water.
Minong Ridge Trail – The Wildest Path on Isle Royale
Distance: 31 miles (49.9 km)
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: 3-4 days
Minong Ridge Trail is a rugged, remote path best for seasoned hikers. Known for its rough terrain and steep climbs, this trail delivers both challenge and beauty. It also offers views from high ridges and dense wilderness.
Highlights:
- Most challenging trail on the island
- Remote campsites for experienced hikers
- Breathtaking views from ridge tops
Mount Ojibway Trail – The Highest Point on Isle Royale
Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 2-3 hours
The Mount Ojibway Trail leads to one of the highest points on Isle Royale, providing spectacular panoramic views. It’s an ideal hike for those looking for a short, rewarding climb.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views from Mount Ojibway
- Moderate difficulty suitable for most hikers
- Easy access from Daisy Farm campground
Tip: The view from the top is unbeatable. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction.
Essential Tips for Hiking Isle Royale Trails
Stay Hydrated: Bring a water filter. While there are plenty of water sources, filtration is necessary.
Camp Smart: Campsites are first-come, first-served, so plan your route with flexibility.
Watch the Weather: Isle Royale’s weather can change rapidly, so pack for rain even on sunny days.
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