The Ultimate Guide to Isle Royale National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Isle Royale National Park is the most remote national park in the contiguous U.S. This park is located in the northwest corner of Lake Superior in the boundaries of the state of Michigan. Isle Royale is the largest island in Lake Superior and was formed by volcanic rock with conifer, birch, aspen, and cedar forests.

Visitors can get to this park by boat or seaplane. Since this park is so remote, it is one of the least visited national parks and only brings in around 20,000 tourists annually. A trip to Isle Royale National Park will be an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

How To Get to Isle Royale National Park

Where Is Isle Royale National Park?

Isle Royale National Park is located in Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. This national park is 15 miles from the Canadian border and is Michigan’s only official national park. Isle Royale National Park is a remote island comprised of wilderness and stretches over 45 miles of temperate forest and the rugged coast of Lake Superior.

Nearest Airports to Isle Royale National Park

There are several airport options for flying to Isle Royale National Park. These airports will get you close to the national park, but a boat or seaplane is the only way to arrive on the island. Let’s take a look at 2 airport options for flying to Ise Royale National Park.

Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX)

Houghton County Memorial Airport is Michigan’s northernmost airport. This airport is only 4 miles from the city of Houghton, which is where visitors will depart to arrive at the park. This airline offers flights to and from Chicago and exclusively services United. This small airport is an excellent option for traveling to Isle Royale National Park.

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is the closest major airport to Isle Royale National Park. This airport offers an endless list of flights to various cities domestically and internationally. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport services an incredible list of airlines, including Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, and United.

Driving to Isle Royale National Park

Since Isle Royale National Park is a remote island, it is only accessed by boat or seaplane. Visitors should plan to depart from the city of Houghton, Michigan; Copper Harbor, Michigan; Grand Portage, Minnesota; or Grand Marais, Minnesota. Take a look at how to arrive at these different cities.

From Houghton, Michigan

Houghton is one of the most popular ways to journey to Isle Royale National Park. This city is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Visitors can get to Houghton by US-41. From Houghton, travelers can take a ferry or seaplane to Isle Royale National Park.

From Copper Harbor, Michigan

Copper Harbor is another option for guests traveling to Isle Royale National Park. This city is located at the edge of Michagn’s Keweenaw Peninsula. This city is accessed by US-41. From Copper Harbor, guests can take a ferry to the park.

From Grand Portage, Minnesota

Grand Portage is 150 miles north of Duluth and is accessed by US-61. There are 2 options for arriving at Isle Royale National Park by ferry from this city.

From Grand Marias, Minnesota

Grand Marias is located in the northeastern region of Minnesota. This city is 110 miles north of Duluth and can be accessed by US-61. Isle Royale National Park tourists can charter a seaplane with a company called Isle Royale Seaplanes.

Taking a Ferry to Isle Royale National Park

There are several options for arriving at Isle Royale National Park by ferry. Options for taking a ferry to Isle Royale National Park vary depending on which city you plan to depart from. Ranger III is the ferry that brings visitors from Houghton, Copper Habor is serviced by the Isle Royale Queen IV, and Sea Hunter III and Voyager II bring guests from Grand Portage.

Taking a Seaplane to Isle Royale National Park

Seaplane is an exciting way to arrive at Isle Royale National Park. Isle Royale Seaplanes is a business that provides daily flights from Hancock, Michigan, and Grand Marais, Minnesota.

Hot Tip: Isle Royale Seaplanes is the sole provider of seaplane services to Isle Royale National Park. Its website offers detailed information and schedules to tourists planning their trip.

Getting Around Isle Royale National Park

Since visitors leave their vehicles on the mainland, the primary mode of transportation for exploring the park is on foot. Other approved forms of transportation include boating, canoeing, and kayaking. The park prohibits wheeled vehicles. The National Park Service offers a variety of printable and interactive maps on its website to help you plan your excursions.

What To See and Do in Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is a national park with a long list of exciting activities for tourists. From everyday activities like hiking to fishing to unique opportunities like scuba diving, there’s something for every adventurer. Let’s explore the top activities in Isle Royale National Park to see which activities you’d like to add to your itinerary.

Boating

Isle Royale National Park is an excellent place for visitors who enjoy boating activities on the water. This national park has many opportunities for kayaking, paddling, and canoeing in the waters surrounding the island and in the inland lakes.

This national park has places for fueling, obtaining boat permits, and even campgrounds that are accessible by boat. Touring Isle Royale National Park by water is an incredible way to explore and discover the adventure that awaits you.

Fishing

There’s no better place for fishing than an island surrounded by miles and miles of water. Fishermen are in for a treat when visiting Isle Royale National Park. There are countless opportunities for fishing in Lake Superior or one of the inland lakes.

Some fish you may find in the waters in and surrounding Isle Royale National Park include lake trout, whitefish, brook trout, yellow perch, and northern pike.

Bottom Line: There’s no better way to spend a day at this beautiful park than reeling a nice fish to show off to your friends and family.

Guided Tours

A wide variety of guided tours is offered at Isle Royale National Park. These guided tours are led by park rangers and lead visitors to several different areas in the park. Some of the guided tours take boats, while others are on foot.

The guided tours at Isle Royale National Park are available from early June to early September. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the history and geography of the Isle Royal National Park area.

Hiking

Hiking enthusiasts love the opportunities for hiking available at Isle Royale National Park. This park comprises 45 miles of island and features 165 miles of hiking trails.

The Isle Royale National Park trails range in difficulty, so there is something for every skill and ability. Some popular hikes available at the park include:

• Grace Creek Overlook
• Minong Ridge Overlook
• Stoll Memorial Trail

Hiking through this island park is an incredible way to appreciate and discover the adventure awaiting you at Isle Royale National Park.

Junior Ranger Program

Isle Royale National Park has an excellent Junior Ranger program offered to children ages 6 to 12. This program allows the youngest park visitors to learn about the remote island, the plants and animals found in the park, the island’s cultural history, and how to preserve the island using the Leave No Trace guidelines.

Children who participate in the Junior Ranger program are able to be involved in hands-on demonstrations and activities. Once they complete their activities and tasks, they are able to submit their discovery booklet for an official Junior Ranger badge.

Allowing your child to participate in the Junior Ranger program at Isle Royale National Park is a special way to explore the park with children while helping them learn about the importance of America’s national parks.

Scuba Diving

Isle Royale National Park is an excellent location for all sorts of adventures, especially water adventures. This island has an entire world to explore underwater.

The park has the most intact collection of all the national parks in the U.S. There are 10 major shipwrecks spanning 70 years that impressively show the progression of maritime transportation. Visitors to the park are able to scuba dive and explore these shipwrecks and get a glimpse of how marine travel has advanced through the years.

Best Times To Visit Isle Royale National Park

Any time you get the opportunity to visit Isle Royale National Park, you will have the time of your life. However, they may be a better time to visit than others, especially if you hope to participate or see something specific. Below you will find a list of the best times to visit Isle Royale National Park, which can help you narrow down the perfect time to plan a trip.

Best Time To Visit Isle Royale National Park for Excellent Weather

Summer months have the best temperatures and weather conditions for traveling to Isle Royale National Park. The temperatures typically reach a high of 75 degrees, which is perfectly comfortable for camping and hiking. The warmest month in this area is July, which is an excellent time for visiting.

Best Time To Visit Isle Royale National Park To Avoid the Crowds

Isle Royale is one of the least visited national parks in the U.S. Even when it is “crowded,” it never feels cramped. If you want to see this national park in its least busy month, planning a trip in September is an excellent idea.

Once schools have gone into session and after Labor Day, there are scarce visitors to the park. The temperatures at this time are also quite comfortable, and you may be able to get a sneak peek at the upcoming fall season.

Best Time To Visit Isle Royale National Park for Wildlife

The park opens for the season in mid-April, which is a perfect time for the wildlife waking up from winter. Mid to late April is an ideal time for visiting Isle Royale National Park if you are hoping to view the wildlife that makes its home in the park. Some of the wildlife you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of includes the red fox, wolves, moose, otters, and beavers.

Cheapest Time To Visit Isle Royale National Park

The cheapest time to visit Isle Royale National Park is in September after Labor Day. While there will still be significant expenses getting to and from the park, lodging rates in the nearby towns are drastically reduced at this time.

Bottom Line: Planning a visit in September is a great way to save money while having the chance to experience this incredible U.S. national park.

Annual Events Near Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale doesn’t host many events other than guided tours and talks throughout the year, but the nearby towns have some incredible annual events that may intrigue you. If any of these events pique your interest, you may want to plan your trip around one of them.

Back 9 Endurance Run

The Back 9 Endurance Run takes place each year in May. This 12/24-hour trail run occurs at Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Copper Harbor.

This trail winds through a 3.5-mile loop through the back 9 trails at the historic lodge, golf courses, hills, mud, and a forest with breathtaking views of Brockway Mountain. Participating in the Back 9 Endurance Run is a fantastic way to explore and discover one of the closest towns to Isle Royale National Park.

Houghton From the Ground Festival

The Houghton From the Ground Festival takes place each year in May in the town of Houghton. This event celebrates the arrival of the spring season in Keweenaw. There are food and vendors for visitors to sample and appreciate the talent of the locals of Houghton.

Live music from local musicians is also showcased throughout this festival. Attending Houghton From the Ground Festival is a great way to learn about the culture and history of this city near Isle Royale National Park.

Where To Stay In and Near Isle Royale National Park

There is a wide variety of accommodations in and near Isle Royale National Park. Most park visitors stay on the park property due to the difficulty of getting to and from the island, but several options exist for setting up a base camp in a town nearby.

Inside the Park

There are several options for visitors seeking accommodations within the park’s boundaries. The most abundant option is to camp in the wilderness. For guests who prefer 4 walls, there are primitive camper cabins and resorts that are also an option. Take a look at the possibilities for lodging in Isle Royale National Park.

Camping

Isle Royale has 36 campgrounds with various campsites for visitors who want to experience Isle Royale National Park in a primitive way. These primitive campgrounds are perfect for visitors who seek a rustic experience sleeping under the stars in this beautiful park.

With no amenities at these campgrounds, camping at this national park is an opportunity for guests to become one with the great outdoors and experience Isle Royale National Park without the distractions of busy schedules and the daily grind.

Rock Harbor Lodge

Rock Harbor Lodge is located on the northeast side of Isle Royale National Park. This is the only option in the park boundaries for traditional lodging.

The lodge is only accessible by boat or seaplane. This exclusive lodge offers superior accommodations with private rooms or cottages, a stunning dining room, a gift shop, a dockside store, a marina, and various other amenities. The location of this lodge is perfect for exploring the wilderness, sightseeing, touring, and viewing the abundant wildlife in the area.

Windigo Camper Cabins

Windigo Camper Cabins are located on the southwest side of Isle Royale National Park in the Rock Harbor Lodge area. This option for lodging features rustic camper cabins that are a fantastic alternative to traditional tent cabins.

These cabins are primitive, with no running water, air conditioner, or heat. These 1-room cabins feature an outdoor restroom, a picnic table, and a grill for cooking outside. Windigo Camper Cabins are an excellent way to experience Isle Royale National Park and reset from the chaos of the daily hustle and bustle.

Towns Near Isle Royale National Park

There are several towns near Isle Royale National Park that would make a great choice for setting up a home base while visiting this park. It is important to note that if you plan to stay in a nearby town and visit the park repeatedly, the cost of your trip will increase since you will need to purchase ferry or seaplane tickets each time you enter and depart from the park.

Let’s explore some of the top options for towns near Isle Royale National Park in case you choose to lodge near the park during your stay.

Copper Harbor, Michigan

Copper Harbor is a popular city for Isle Royale National Park visitors. This town has a long list of accommodation options, restaurants, and recreation.

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding the perfect home away from home in Copper Harbor. Whether you prefer sleeping in the great outdoors, staying in a primitive cabin, or living in the lap of luxury in a resort, you can find exactly what you’re looking for in this town. 

There are many great restaurants in Copper Harbor that showcase local favorites and one-of-a-kind specialties. From fine dining to family restaurants, there’s something for everyone here.

Adventure seekers will love staying in Copper Harbor because of its endless list of recreational opportunities. This town is perfect for hiking, biking, boating, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more. For guests who prefer relaxation or arts and culture, Copper Harbor has several spas and salons, live musical events, artisan shops and galleries, and museums and tours.

Bottom Line: Copper Harbor is an ideal choice for lodging near the park. Guests never run out of things to do in this exciting town.

Houghton, Michigan

Most Isle Royale National Park visitors stay near the park in Houghton. This small town has a lot to offer visitors, including incredible lodging options, fabulous restaurants, and a host of activities for recreation.

Houghton has over a dozen lodging facilities scattered throughout its town. Whether you prefer camping in an RV park, a budget-friendly motel, or a historic hotel, Houghton has you covered.

The food scene in Houghton is remarkable. The town features a never-ending list of local restaurants serving everything from freshly baked pastries to sensational sushi, and from high-quality steaks to freshly caught seafood dishes. The hardest decision for guests staying in Houghton will be narrowing down where to dine each day.

There is plenty to see and do in Houghton. The town has museums and performing arts centers, an abundance of water activities, outdoor sports such as golfing and hiking, and a variety of shops and boutiques for guests who love to shop.

Houghton is an excellent choice for visitors who want to stay near Isle Royale National Park. There’s something that appeals to every traveler in this beautiful town.

Where To Eat In and Near Isle Royale National Park

Take a look at some of the top-ranked restaurants in and near Isle Royale National Park. There are 2 restaurants in Isle Royale National Park and countless options in the cities near the park. No matter what you’re craving, you can rest assured that you will find the perfect option at one of these outstanding restaurants.

Ambassador Restaurant

Ambassador Restaurant is a well-known restaurant in Houghton. This restaurant is known for its one-of-a-kind pizzas, retro-style atmosphere, and fantastic taproom.

There is an extensive menu of unique pizzas, pasta dishes, freshly made salads, sub sandwiches, loaded nachos, and signature spirits. Favorite menu items include the Greek pizza, chicken Caesar salad, and the Reuben sandwich. Its famous spirits include a gin and rum specialty called the Scorpion and Pirates Cove, another exciting cocktail of spiced rum and juices.

For an unforgettable culinary experience, make sure to add Ambassador Restaurant to your Isle Royale National Park itinerary.

The Berry Patch

You are bound to get a sweet tooth or a craving for something cold during your adventures at Isle Royale National Park. Should you find yourself in such a predicament, you must take a detour to The Berry Patch in Copper Harbor.

The Berry Patch proudly serves homemade ice cream, Italian ice, and other sweet desserts. Not only does The Berry Patch serve fantastic ice creams and treats, but it also has a lovely menu of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Customers love the thimbleberry sundaes, the gelato, the hand-dipped blueberry ice cream, and the specialty dipped cones. The Berry Patch is also great for stocking up on homemade jams, gifts, and even antiques.

An excellent place to dine while visiting Isle Royale National Park, you’ll satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy the hospitality of this family-owned restaurant at the same time.

Four Suns Fish and Chips

Four Sons Fish and Chips is located in Houghton and is a top-ranked restaurant by locals and visitors. This restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. It offers a great selection of award-winning seafood creations, gourmet sides, and hot dogs for dining in or takeout.

This must-try restaurant in the Houghton area is open seasonally. Guests rave about the fried whitefish basket, fish tacos, and fresh smoked fish chowder. Isle Royale National Park has its headquarters in Houghton making this a convenient place to eat when traveling to and from the park.

Greenstone Grill

Greenstone Grill is one of the 2 options for dining in Isle Royale National Park. This restaurant is located in Rock Harbor Lodge. Greenstone Grill has an incredible deck for visitors who want to gather with friends or family after a long day exploring the park.

This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it an excellent option for any meal during the day. Guests rave about the fish sandwich, quesadillas, and salads. Greenstone Grill has a solution for you, whether you crave pizza, a sandwich, or a burger.

Bottom Line: Be sure to stop by Greenstone Grill while visiting Isle Royale National Park for a great pick-me-up during your park excursions.

Harbor Haus

Harbor Haus is located in Copper Harbor, a popular place for those heading to Isle Royale National Park. This restaurant is one of the top-ranked restaurants in the city.

Located on the shore of Lake Superior, guests can enjoy a sensational meal with a spectacular view. The menu at Harbor Haus features dishes with freshly caught local fish, top-quality steaks, and culinary specialties made with local produce. This restaurant also has an extensive wine list, German beers on tap, and signature cocktails made with Haus-infused liquors and fresh local berries.

Not only is Harbor Haus an incredible place to dine each day, but the staff also performs a ceremonial dance for diners to enjoy. This dance is a greeting to the visitors on the nearby ferry. It symbolizes the friendly and cooperative traits of the community of Copper Harbor. For great food and a fun experience, visit Harbor Haus. Your tastebuds will thank you.

Isle Royale National Park Facts

1. A New National Park

President Franklin D. Roosevelt established Isle Royale National Park as America’s 25th national park in 1940. Before establishing this national, President Herbert Hoover began efforts to authorize this island as a designated park in 1931.

2. Lighthouses

There are several lighthouses that can be seen in Isle Royale National Park. These lighthouses helped guide ships safely to shore starting as early as 1855. The oldest lighthouse in Isle Royale National Park is the Rock Harbor Lighthouse. Other lighthouses in the park include Passage Island, Rock of Ages, and the Isle Royale Lighthouse. Today, these unmanned lighthouses are a visual reminder of Isle Royale’s fascinating past.

3. Shipwrecks

Isle Royale National Park has an underwater museum of shipwrecks that can be explored by scuba diving. One of the most infamous shipwrecks at Isle Royale was The America. This ship set to sail in June of 1928 but struck a submerged shoal that tore holes in the hull and sank the ship.

The passengers and crew members were able to safely abandon the vessel. Today, visitors can tour the dock where The America departed, see a lifeboat from the ship, and scuba dive to explore the boat’s remains.

4. Closed for the Season

Isle Royale National Park is the only national park to completely close for the winter season each year. Guests can visit this national park from April 16 to October 31 each year. The park closes from November 1 to April 15 for extreme winter weather and to keep visitors safe.

5. Interesting Visitation

Isle Royale National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the U.S. Remarkably, this national park has the highest number of repeat visitors yearly.

6. International Biosphere Reserve

In 1980, Isle Royale Biosphere Reserve was established. This prestigious honor means that Isle Royale is an excellent place for the sustainable use of natural resources and for conserving the area’s biological diversity. Isle Royale National Park has incredible opportunities for researching a remote ecosystem where human influences are scarce. There are only 47 reserves across the U.S., so this title is quite an honor.

7. An Island of Islands

Many people think that Isle Royale National Park is 1 large island. While there is a large island that composes most of the park, there are actually over 400 islands in this national park. Isle Royale National Park is called an archipelago, which is a group of many islands.

8. Highs and Lows

Isle Royale National Park’s highest point in elevation is on Mount Desor. This point reaches 1,204 feet. The lowest point in the park is 601 feet in height, which is found at Lake Superior.

9. Wolf Relocation

The gray wolf is an animal that was listed on the endangered species list in 1978. Isle Royale National Park has been doing their part to reintroduce and save this species since 2018. They brought 4 wolves to Isle Royale in hopes of helping them to survive and thrive. As of 2020, the gray wolf has officially been removed from the endangered species list due to the efforts of places like Isle Royale National Park.

10. Original People of Isle Royale

The remote island of Isle Royale was home to the Chippewa tribe. This land offered many resources to this people group, including maple trees for sugaring and a wealth of plants that could be used for eating and medicinal purposes. The beaver and bear in the area also provided for the Chippewa tribe.

The Native Americans of this area believed the land was sacred and even to this day have descendants of this tribe that come to visit this area and fish the island that sustained their ancestors.

11. Fires: Helpful and Harmful

Fire has had a significant role in the history of Isle Royale National Park. Over the years, wildland fires have broken out and drastically affected the park’s landscape. One of the most well-known fires of Isle Royale National Park is the fire of 1936. It is still unknown if the fire was started by man or lightning, but the fire burned 27,000 acres and took over 1,800 firefighters to contain it.

The fire of 1936 began on July 25th and wasn’t fully extinguished until September. Because of this fire, 3 fire towers were built along the island. Today, Isle Royale National Park uses fire management to prevent wildfires and preserve the property and natural resources of the park. Some activities included in fire management are prescribed fires and maintenance burning.

12. A Massive Island

Isle Royale National Park is the largest island in Lake Superior. This island is 45 miles long and 9 miles wide. The area of this island is over 206 square miles. This island is the fourth-largest freshwater island in the world.

13. Home to Many Animals

Isle Royale National Park is home to an abundance of animals. Over 18 species of mammals live in the park as well as amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds, and insects. Visitors enjoy the countless opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and fishing at this national park.

14. Invasive Species in the Park

One species that makes its home in Isle Royale National Park is an invasive species called zebra mussels. The park is working diligently to help reduce the threats caused by these unwelcome inhabitants. Zebra mussels make their way into Isle Royale National Park by clinging to boats traveling to and from the island. If these problems go ignored, they can cause severe damage to Isle Royale.

There are several things visitors can do to help the park in their efforts to control these invasive zebra mussels. It is important to take note of the signage throughout the park and take the proper measures to help reduce the spread of dangers caused by these mussels.

Final Thoughts

For explorers who make the journey to Isle Royale National Park, they are rewarded with spectacular views and excellent opportunities for adventure and learning. Book your trip to Isle Royale National Park for an experience of a lifetime that will keep you returning to this remote area.