WUDN

March-2024

Exploring the Great Outdoors: 5 Must-Visit Features of Every National Park in the United States

WUDN Outdoor Adventure (National Park Series)

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Part 36 of Our National Park Series

Isle Royale National Park

National Park Series > Midwestern US > Isle Royale National Park

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Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Rocky Mountain National Park is a pristine wilderness of towering peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse ecosystems, the park offers visitors a wealth of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are the top five activities to experience during your visit:

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Isle Royale National Park - Photo by Hans Isaacson on Unsplash

Top 5 Outdoor Adventures in: Isle Royale National Park

1. Backpacking:

Lace up your boots and embark on a multi-day backpacking adventure through the park's pristine wilderness. Isle Royale boasts over 165 miles of hiking trails, which traverse rugged terrain, dense forests, and scenic coastline. The Greenstone Ridge Trail offers a challenging trek across the length of the island, while shorter loops such as the Minong Ridge Trail and the Feldtmann Ridge Trail provide opportunities to explore specific regions of the park.

2. Kayaking and Canoeing:

Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior by kayak or canoe and discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and scenic shoreline. Paddle along the island's rugged coastline, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as moose, wolves, and bald eagles. For a longer journey, consider circumnavigating the entire island by kayak or embarking on a multi-day paddling expedition.

3. Wildlife Watching:

Isle Royale National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the world's largest population of moose and a thriving population of wolves. Keep your eyes peeled for these iconic species as well as other wildlife such as foxes, otters, and beavers as you explore the park's trails and waterways. Don't forget to bring binoculars and a camera to capture sightings of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

4. Scuba Diving:

Discover the hidden wonders beneath the surface of Lake Superior with a scuba diving adventure in Isle Royale National Park. The crystal-clear waters of the lake offer excellent visibility and opportunities to explore shipwrecks, underwater rock formations, and vibrant aquatic life. Whether you're a beginner or experienced diver, Isle Royale's underwater landscapes are sure to captivate and inspire.

5. Stargazing:

Escape the glow of city lights and marvel at the brilliance of the night sky above Isle Royale National Park. Set up a telescope or simply spread out a blanket and gaze in awe at the countless stars overhead. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky, as well as planets, constellations, and even the occasional aurora borealis.

Whether you're hiking through pristine wilderness, paddling along scenic shorelines, or marveling at the night sky, Isle Royale National Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration in one of the most remote and untouched wilderness areas in the United States.

In Isle Royale National Park , some of the top attractions that draw visitors from around the world include:

Isle Royale National Park, known for its remote wilderness and pristine natural beauty, offers a variety of must-see attractions that showcase the island's unique landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Here are the top four must-see attractions of Isle Royale National Park:

1. Rock Harbor:

Serving as the primary gateway to Isle Royale National Park, Rock Harbor is a picturesque harbor town located on the island's northeastern shore. Visitors arriving by ferry or seaplane will dock at Rock Harbor, where they can explore the charming village, visit the visitor center, and embark on hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks and historic sites.

2. Scoville Point:

Situated on the island's northeastern shore, Scoville Point is renowned for its stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. A scenic hiking trail leads visitors through dense forests and rocky terrain to the point, where they can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the lake and rugged coastline. Scoville Point is an ideal spot for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

3. Isle Royale Hiking Trails:

Isle Royale National Park boasts over 165 miles of pristine hiking trails that wind through dense forests, along rocky shorelines, and over rugged ridges. The park's extensive trail network offers opportunities for hikers of all skill levels to explore the island's diverse landscapes and encounter its abundant wildlife. Popular hiking trails include the Greenstone Ridge Trail, which traverses the length of the island, and the Minong Ridge Trail, known for its rugged terrain and scenic vistas.

4. Lake Superior Shoreline:

The pristine shoreline of Lake Superior is one of Isle Royale's most iconic features, offering visitors the opportunity to explore secluded beaches, rocky coves, and scenic overlooks. Whether by kayak, canoe, or on foot, exploring the island's rugged coastline provides visitors with unparalleled opportunities for adventure and discovery. From rocky cliffs to sandy beaches, the shoreline of Lake Superior offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

These four attractions highlight the diverse beauty and natural wonders of Isle Royale National Park, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether exploring the island's historic sites, hiking its scenic trails, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Isle Royale offers visitors an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Some Real Wooden Style for Your Trip

We are working on more branded merch to accompany your trip. In the meantime, here is a pair of real wooden shades for some excellent style while you hike the back-country of Isle Royale National Park.

6 oz. Wooden Hip Flask (US National Park Collection in Mahogany)

6 oz. Wooden Hip Flask (US National Park Collection in Mahogany)

$ 25.00

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How to Get To Isle Royale National Park

To reach Badlands National Park, visitors have several options depending on their starting point and mode of transportation:

1. By Car: The most common way to reach Badlands National Park is by car. The park is located in southwestern South Dakota, approximately 60 miles east of Rapid City. From Rapid City, visitors can take Interstate 90 eastbound and then exit onto South Dakota Highway 240 (Badlands Loop Road) to access the park's north entrance. Alternatively, visitors traveling from the east can take Interstate 90 westbound and exit onto South Dakota Highway 240 (Badlands Loop Road) to access the park's south entrance.

2. By Air: The nearest major airport to Badlands National Park is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located approximately 75 miles west of the park. From the airport, visitors can rent a car and drive to the park, or arrange for shuttle or taxi service to their accommodations near the park.

3. By Bus: While there are no direct bus routes to Badlands National Park, visitors can take Greyhound or other bus services to Rapid City and then rent a car or arrange for transportation to the park.

4. By Train: Amtrak offers train service to Rapid City via its Empire Builder route, which runs between Chicago, Illinois, and Seattle/Portland, Washington. From the Rapid City Amtrak station, visitors can rent a car or arrange for transportation to Badlands National Park.

Once inside the park, visitors can explore its scenic drives, hiking trails, and viewpoints by car or on foot. The park is open year-round, but services and facilities may vary depending on the season, so it's essential to check the park's website or contact the visitor center for current information before planning your trip.

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History and Creation of Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park, located in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, is a pristine wilderness area renowned for its rugged landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife. The history and creation of Isle Royale National Park are deeply intertwined with the island's natural and cultural heritage.

The park's history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human occupation dating back to ancient indigenous peoples, including the Ojibwe and the Anishinaabe. These early inhabitants relied on the island's rich resources for sustenance, including fishing, hunting, and gathering. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Isle Royale became a center of fur trading activity, attracting European traders and explorers seeking to capitalize on the region's lucrative fur trade. The island's remote location and harsh climate made it a challenging environment for settlers, and few permanent settlements were established.

In the early 20th century, efforts to protect Isle Royale's natural beauty and ecological integrity gained momentum, spurred by concerns over deforestation, overfishing, and other environmental threats. In 1931, Isle Royale was designated as a national park by President Herbert Hoover, making it the United States' 3rd national park.

Getting to Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior, involves several steps due to its remote location. Here's how you can reach the park:

1. Ferry Services: The most common way to reach Isle Royale is by ferry. Ferry services operate from several mainland ports in Michigan and Minnesota during the summer months, typically from late May to early September. These ports include Houghton and Copper Harbor in Michigan, as well as Grand Portage in Minnesota. Ferry rides can vary in duration depending on the departure point, with some journeys taking several hours.

2. Seaplane Services: Another option for reaching Isle Royale is by seaplane. Seaplane services operate from various locations in the region, including Houghton and Grand Marais in Michigan, offering a faster but more expensive alternative to ferry travel. Seaplane flights typically take around 30 minutes to reach the park.

3. Private Boats: If you have access to a private boat or kayak, you can also reach Isle Royale by watercraft. However, keep in mind that Lake Superior can be unpredictable and subject to changing weather conditions, so be sure to plan your journey carefully and check weather forecasts before setting out.

4. Permits and Reservations: Regardless of how you choose to travel to Isle Royale, it's important to make reservations in advance for ferry or seaplane services, as well as obtain any necessary permits for camping or lodging within the park. Isle Royale National Park is a designated wilderness area with limited visitor facilities, so planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

By following these steps and making the necessary arrangements, you can embark on an unforgettable journey to Isle Royale National Park and experience the remote beauty of this pristine wilderness area in the heart of Lake Superior.

/Fin. Isle Royale National Park

In summary, Isle Royale National Park emerges as a remote and rugged gem nestled within the pristine waters of Lake Superior. This wilderness sanctuary, encompassing a pristine archipelago of islands, offers a tranquil retreat for adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty. From its dense forests to its pristine lakeshores, Isle Royale captivates visitors with its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife. Whether hiking along scenic trails, kayaking through secluded bays, or observing the island's iconic moose and wolves, every moment spent in Isle Royale is an opportunity for immersion in the untamed wilderness. With its unique blend of natural wonders and unspoiled landscapes, Isle Royale National Park beckons adventurers to embark on an unforgettable journey of exploration and discovery amidst the remote beauty of the northern wilderness.