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.

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

      A large blue boat with white upper trim shines in the morning sun with Isle Royale in the background
      RANGER III Reservations

      Reserve seats aboard RANGER III.

      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 group of nine people with large backpacks and gear stand in a circle.
      Group Camping

      Groups of 7 or more people need a group camping permit and advance reservations.

      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: February 26, 2025

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      Contact Info

      Mailing Address:

      800 East Lakeshore Drive
      Houghton, MI 49931

      Phone:

      906 482-0984

      Contact Us