Your Invitation to a Superior Wilderness

Explore a rugged, isolated island far from our connected communities. Isle Royale offers adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, paddlers, and divers. Cross Lake Superior and make a commitment: Become a part of this island, and let it become a part of you. Find peace and refuge in island wilderness – because Isle Royale, in turn, finds refuge in us. Help Isle Royale stay wild.

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Duration:
2 minutes, 1 second

Begin a lifelong journey when you cross Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world, and arrive at Isle Royale National Park.

An adult and child sit on a dock looking out of the water while reading a newspaper.
Current Conditions

Important park alerts, updates, and weather information for your upcoming visit.

A newspaper banner reading "The Greenstone."
Read The Greenstone

The Greenstone newspaper is your one stop shop for planning your trip to Isle Royale.

A trail winding through a forest with yellow leaves. Fallen leaves cover the trail.
Can I visit Isle Royale in the Fall?

Visiting Isle Royale after Labor Day can be a challenge as services and transportation begin to shut down. Plan ahead; options are limited!

A large blue and yellow ferry sails down a forest-lined canal.
How to Travel to Isle Royale

Multiple ferries and a seaplane service transport visitors to the park.

People sit on a dock as the sun sets over water in front of them.
Where to Stay

Find your home in the island wilderness.

woman excitedly gripping annual pass
Entrance Fees and Passes

Learn the basics about Isle Royale fees and passes.

An adult with a backpack on stands next to two children along a rocky trail in a forest.
Overnight Camping & Backpacking Permits

Small-party permits are for those camping overnight in the park with 6 or fewer people (excluding boaters, see below)

Two people sit in lawn chairs on a deck and look into the distance with green foliage behind them.
Daytripper and Lodge Guest Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your day trip or lodge visit.

A group of three adults and one child poses for a photo with their backpacking packs on.
Backpacker Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your wilderness backpacking experience.

A white powerboat sailing in a lake near a rocky island.
Boater Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your boating trip.

Four people in two yellow tandem kayaks.
Paddler Orientation

Help Isle Royale Stay Wild by following these best practices for your kayaking or canoeing trip.

Two people jump off of a dock into calm waters as the sun sets in the background.
First Timer Guide

Start planning your trip.

Last updated: September 12, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

800 East Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931

Phone:

906 482-0984

Contact Us