With numerous lakes, bays, and islands, Isle Royale National Park provides many miles of waterways for the experienced canoeist and kayaker, but the isolation of the island makes planning and preparation necessary.
We discourage small, open vessels from entering the open waters of Lake Superior where waves up to ten feet and short-wavelength swells make boating treacherous. Landing places along the outer shore are scarce. Sudden winds whip up waves that could swamp a canoe, even in protected harbors and inland lakes.
This information can help you plan your canoe or kayak trip, but please also read our Camping and Getting There pages for complete information on facilities, transportation, regulations, leave-no-trace camping practices, and wilderness use.
You must have a camping permit to stay overnight in the backcountry. Permits are issued free aboard the Ranger III and at Rock Harbor and Windigo Ranger Stations.
You may transport your canoe or kayak by any of the boats that travel to Isle Royale. Make reservations beforehand. Arrangements can be made with the captain of the Voyageur II for drop-off and pick-up at Daisy Farm, Chippewa Harbor, Malone Bay, Windigo, McCargoe Cove, and Rock Harbor.
Water taxi service is available from Rock Harbor Lodge to docks on the northeast half of the island. Rates vary with distance and number of persons. Limited canoe rentals are available at Windigo and Rock Harbor. Contact Isle Royale Resorts, P. O. Box 405, Houghton, MI 49931. You may also obtain canoe rental information from: Chamber of Commerce, Houghton, MI 49931; Tip of Arrowhead Assoc., Grand Marais, MN 55604; Tourism Office, Thunder Bay, Canada
Canoe routes and portages are located on the northeast half of the island. Portages are marked with a white “P” on a post. Use of wheeled portage devices is not permitted.
WeatherLake Superior is well known for its cold temperatures, fog, and sudden squalls. Expect rough seas. Be familiar with weather patterns and consult the MAFOR (Marine Forecast) at ranger stations before embarking. Avoid lightning storms. Be prepared to adjust your schedule to the weather.
Every canoeist and kayaker must have a U. S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD). Wear it! It is extremely difficult to put on in the water, and your life may depend on it. Be sure your PFD can be tied or zipped and is the proper size, preventing it from slipping off in the water. If your companion can pull off your PFD, once adjusted, over your head, it is too large for you and unsafe to use.
Motors are permitted only on Lake Superior waters and canoes with motors must have a State registration. It is not legal to transport motors, even if not used, through the inland lakes.
Use the Isle Royale Topographic Map and Navigation Chart. We also recommend the Foot Trails and Water Routes Guide. These and other publications are available on the island and by mail order from: Isle Royale Natural History Association, http://www.irnha.org, 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931 1-800-678-6925
Maximum group size is 10 persons. Groups (7-10 persons) must stay at designated “group campsites” and make advance reservations. Canoe-only campgrounds do not have group sites. Shoreline camping is not open to groups. For further information on group camping, call (906) 482-0984.
Water
Water you use to wash or drink requires special precautions to avoid pollution or exposure to disease.
Be sure your canoe is in good repair. Carry first aid kit, extra paddle, self-contained stove, insect repellent, map(s) and compass, 50 feet of lashing line, rain gear, extra food in case of bad weather, bailer sponge or bucket, waterproof matches, and dry storage containers.
Consult the park map and know the location of possible help at all times. It is safest not to travel alone and to come with first aid and CPR training.
Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites cannot be reserved. Canoe/kayak-only sites are limited to two nights stay and parties of six or fewer. By obtaining a special camping permit, the entire shore of Lake Whittlesey, Wood Lake, Intermediate Lake, and Siskiwit Lake, and designated zones along Lake Superior, are open to camping with a one-night limit per location. Camping on off-shore islands is limited to designated campsites.
Carry out what you carry in. Don’t burn or bury trash.
Before fishing at Isle Royale, become familiar with the regulations.
Cold water reduces your swimming ability. Be a competent swimmer. Know how to handle yourself fully clothed in cold water.
Dress to protect yourself from cold water and weather extremes. Wear layered clothing under a windproof outer garment. Guard against loss of body temperature (hypothermia). If after prolonged exposure anyone in your party experiences uncontrollable shaking, or has difficulty talking or moving, he or she must be warmed immediately by whatever means available.
For more information, contact: Isle Royale National Park, 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931
(906) 482-0984
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