At a glance
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.
Things to do: Arts and Culture · Astronomy · Stargazing · Boating · Motorized Boating · Sailing · Boat Tour · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Canoe or Kayak Camping · Group Camping · Fishing · Freshwater Fishing · Food
ParkAtlas, maintained by Stellaroos, combines its park and trail dataset with public information from the National Park Service. NPS data snapshot retrieved . Fees, access, and conditions can change; verify current details with NPS before traveling.
Trails
Isle Royale has roughly 165 named trails. Log the one you hiked in the app — or just the park if you're not sure.
Camping
Approximately 246 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – August).
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – August. Access is seasonal — confirm opening and closing dates on NPS.gov before you go.
Isle Royale National Park is a remote island wilderness in the middle of Lake Superior. Weather influences traveling to and from the island, as well as your trip once you arrive. gov prior to your trip.
Pack for Isle Royale
Four things worth having for wind, spray, and wet rock. From the full gear list; links support ParkAtlas.
Marmot PreCip rain shell
Afternoon thunderstorms are a feature of the mountain West, not a bug.
See on Amazon →
Salomon Speedcross trail runners
Grippy on slickrock and mud, light enough to forget about. I hike in these more than boots.
See on Amazon →
Darn Tough ultralight socks
No blisters, no smell, and a lifetime guarantee they actually honor.
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Entrance fees
- Entrance - Per Person — $7 per person per day to enter or remain in Isle Royale National Park. Children 15 and younger are exempt. Visiting Park Headquarters in Houghton, MI does not require a fee.$7
Annual Entrance - Park: $60. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Houghton, MI. Park center: 48.100°, -88.550°.
Isle Royale National Park headquarters is located in Houghton, MI. Visit the Houghton page on the Isle Royale National Park website for additional information and a map on how to access the visitor center.
Coming from a big city? See every park near Minneapolis or Chicago.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Isle Royale National Park?
Entrance - Per Person: $7.
When is the best time to visit Isle Royale?
Peak season is June – August. Access is seasonal; check NPS.gov for opening dates. Isle Royale National Park is a remote island wilderness in the middle of Lake Superior. Weather influences traveling to and from the island, as well as your trip once you arrive. gov prior to your trip.
Can you camp in Isle Royale National Park?
Yes — about 246 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Isle Royale National Park?
Houghton, MI is the nearest major city. Isle Royale National Park headquarters is located in Houghton, MI. Visit the Houghton page on the Isle Royale National Park website for additional information and a map on how to access the visitor center.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.