Operating Hours & Seasons

Aerial view of Washington Harbor.

NPS Photo/Paul Brown

Isle Royale National Park is open every year from April 16 through October 31. From November 1 - April 15 annually, Isle Royale and its surrounding islands are closed to all visitors. Lake Superior waters are open to navigation. All islands reopen April 16.

The park headquarters during the winter is in Houghton, Michigan. The summer headquarters is located at Mott Island on Isle Royale National Park.

 

Visitor Centers & Administrative Offices Locations & Hours

Houghton Visitor Center

Location: 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931
Seasons & Hours: Houghton Visitor Center Hours
April 16 - May 31: Monday-Friday 10:00 am - 4:00pm ET
June 1 - September 15: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm ET, Saturday 10 am - 5 pm ET
September 16 - October 31: Monday-Friday 10:00 am - 4:00pm, Closed Federal Holidays
November 1 - April 15: Closed

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Rock Harbor Visitor Center

Location: Northeast end of Isle Royale National Park

Seasons & Hours:
June 6 - September 18: Daily 8:00 am - 5:00 pm ET
Prior to June 6 and after September 18: Open intermittently

 

Windigo Visitor Center

Location: Southwest end of Isle Royale National Park

Seasons & Hours:
June 6 - September 18: Daily 8:00 am - 5:00 pm ET
Prior to June 6 and after September 18: Open intermittently

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Fee Collection Hours

Houghton Visitor Center

April 16 - October 31

Monday-Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm ET
Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm ET

 

Rock Harbor Visitor Center

June 6 - September 18

Daily: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

 

Windigo Visitor Center

June 6 - September 18

Daily: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

 

Administrative Offices

Location:
May - September: Mott Island, Isle Royale National Park
Year Round: 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931

Seasons & Hours:
By Appoinment Only: Contact the Park

 

Entrance Fees and Passes

Learn the basics about Isle Royale fees and passes.

Overnight Camping & Backpacking Permits

Small-party permits are for those camping overnight in the park with 6 or fewer people (excluding boaters, see below)

First Timer Guide

Start planning your trip.