Isle Royale National Park
Fast Facts
- Location
- Founded
- Popularity
- Size
- Website
- Phone
- Yearly
- Closest City
- Time Zone
- Michigan
- 1940
- 59 of 63
- 893 sm/ 2,314 skm
- www.nps.gov/isro
- (906) 482-0984
- 26,400 (2019)
- Houghton, MI
- Eastern
Current Weather
Map
When talking about remote national parks, we usually think of Alaska, but perhaps the most remote in the lower 48 is Isle Royale National Park. Technically located in Michigan, the island (the largest in Lake Superior), lies off the coast of Ontario and Minnesota. It’s accessible only by ferry or seaplane. Here you’ll find no roads and no cars. The 45-mile long island is the home to a wide variety of undisturbed wildlife, including beavers, wolves, foxes, muskrats, minks and moose. It’s a largely undeveloped wilderness perfect for camping, kayaking or hiking.
Established in 1940, the park’s isolation makes it one of the least visited national parks. Crowds will not be a problem. Two small settlements provide some basics and you can even stay in cabins if you reserve far enough in advance, but planning for the park is essential. The weather can be harsh and the park is open only from April 16 through October 31. But for those hardy soles who want to experience nature and isolation and visit a place seemingly untouched by time, the park provides more than enough opportunities.
Getting There
Find out how to get to the park, including the closest airport and and highways.
Plan Your Trip
Things to know before coming, including cost, weather and the best time of the year to visit.
Attractions
Find out everything there is to do in the park. Don’t miss these recommendations from TripAdvisor.
Best Hikes
Discover the most popular and beautiful hikes the park has to offer. Alltrails has reviews and more.
Top 3 Must See
Limited time, or just want to hit the highlights? These are our top three “must see” attractions in the park.
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