Thing to Do

Minong Section 3: Hike from Little Todd to North Desor

Isle Royale National Park

A person with a backpack and a stick stands on an exposed ridge overlooking a forest and a lake.
Backpackers find elevation changes and unsure footing challenging on this section of trail.

NPS / KATIE KELLER

About this Trail

  • Mileage: About 5.7 miles

  • Primitively maintained trail

  • Rocks and roots on trail

  • Steep inclines

  • Rocks slippery when wet

  • Changing trail conditions require a map, compass, and navigation skills

  • Parts of trail marked with cairns

  • Trekking poles are recommended

  • Most common location for search and rescues

Trailheads

This trail section between Little Todd and North Desor is the most difficult section of Isle Royale's most challenging trail—the Minong. Daring hikers experience elevation changes, unsure footing, and changing trail conditions that require navigation skills. Although less than six miles, this section typically takes hikers the entire day. There is no water easily accessible from this trail. Purify water at Little Todd Campground or North Desor Campground. 

Found Nearby

  • Little Todd Campground
  • North Desor Campground
Details
Duration
1 Day
Activity
Backcountry Camping
Pets Allowed
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Minong Ridge Trail at Isle Royale National Park
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Accessibility Information
The trail is 18 inches wide and covered in rocks and roots.

Isle Royale National Park

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Little Todd Campground

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North Desor Campground

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Last updated: April 5, 2022