Alerts & Conditions

Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Isle Royale National Park

Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State of Michigan, and local public health authorities, Isle Royale is increasing recreational access to the park. The National Park Service (NPS) is working servicewide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.

All Visitor Centers Reopen June 26, 2020

Beginning June 26, 2020, Houghton, Rock Harbor, and Windigo Visitor Centers will open.

• The Houghton Visitor Center will be open Monday - Friday, 8 am to 6 pm, Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.
• Island visitor centers will have reduced hours, reduced capacities, and limited services. Check bulletin boards upon arrival to Windigo or Rock Harbor.

Impact on Isle Royale National Park Summer 2020: Island Access Reopened June 26, 2020

Beginning June 26, 2020, campgrounds, docks, and trails will be open

• Exception: North Desor Campground and Minong Trail from Hatchet Lake Junction to East Huginnin Trail junction.

Ranger III, Voyageur II, Sea Hunter III, and Isle Royale Queen IV will not provide visitor ferry transportation this summer. Rock Harbor Lodge, including overnight lodging, dining, marina services, gift shops and stores, will remain closed for the season. Isle Royale Seaplanes plans to operate.

Welcome to Isle Royale during COVID-19

• Guidance for having a safe and enjoyable visit this season.

COVID-19 Isle Royale Press Releases

• Read the Isle Royale National Park Delayed Opening Press Release (5/20/20)

• Read the Isle Royale National Park Begins to Implement Phased Opening Press Release (6/9/20)
• Read the Isle Royale National Park Announces Further Opening Press Release (6/23/20)
• Read the Superintendent's COIVD-19 Closure Order (The park has reopened as of June 26, 2020)
• Read the Minong Ridge Trail Closure Order

COVID-19 Transportation Changes

• Ranger III, Voyageur II, Sea Hunter III, and Isle Royale Queen IV will not provide visitor ferry transportation this summer.
• Ranger III Passenger Service is Cancelled
  • Ranger III COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Isle Royale Seaplanes is operating.

COVID-19 Recreational Activity Changes

• Backpacking Clarifications & FAQs
• Boating Clarifications & FAQs
  • Fuel Availability
• General Park Clarifications & FAQs
• Group Camping Reservations Changes
• Park Entrance Fee Changes
• Rock Harbor Lodge is Closed

Impact on NPS Facilities and Services

Visitors can be assured that facilities and service providers in national parks continue to monitor conditions and maintain high standards related to the health and wellness of staff and visitors. Park and concession staff are working to maintain clean and healthy facilities in parks in accordance with CDC guidance.

Visit www.nps.gov/coronavirus for updated NPS wide Coronavirus impacts and recommendations.

CDC Coronavirus Precautions

Following CDC guidance, NPS Public Health Service Officers recommend that everyone should take the following routine precautions:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use >60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, or do so into your elbow. Dispose of the tissue and wash your hands again.

• In the office, keep 6 feet of separation between yourself and others to reduce the potential spread of infection.

• Use virtual tools instead of holding in-person meetings.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Most important, if you experience flu symptoms or any serious infection or virus, please stay home to avoid exposing others.

Read the most up-to-date COVID-19 information on the CDC website.

 

Current Isle Royale National Park Weather Conditions

 

Coronavirus News Across the NPS