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Isle Royale National ParkAerial of the Rock Harbor Lighthouse and the Rock Harbor channel.
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Isle Royale National Park
Day Hiking
Day hikers venture out.
National Park Service
Lodge guests venture out on a day hike.

If you only have a few hours to spend on Isle Royale, day hiking is an excellent way to get into the backcountry for solitude and exploration. There are a number of short hikes available, from a 1-mile jaunt near Windigo to a 4-mile loop out to Scoville Point near Rock Harbor. Whichever hike you decide to take, be sure to bring a daypack with water, snacks, raingear, and a first aid kit. Be sure to wear sturdy boots or tennis shoes that are broken in. Some hikes are ranger-led, check the program schedule at the visitor centers.

For tips on hiking safety, click here.

To view a Rock Harbor Area Guide, click here.  To explore a Windigo Area Guide, click here.

Areal view of the Island's northshore.  

Did You Know?
Isle Royale was designated as a Biosphere Reserve on February 17, 1981. It is part of a program designed to protect examples of the different ecosystems of the world and to encourage research. It was chosen for its unspoiled nature and represents the northern lake forest biome.

Last Updated: December 30, 2007 at 12:46 EST