Thing to Do

Minong Section 4: Hike from North Desor to Windigo

Isle Royale National Park

A person with a backpack hikes along a beaver dam near a beaver pond surrounded by forest.
Hikers trek along beaver dams to stay on the Minong Ridge Trail.

NPS / DERRICK JAEGER

About this Trail

  • Mileage: About 13 miles
  • Primitively maintained trail
  • Rocks and roots on trail
  • Steep inclines
  • Rocks and boardwalks slippery when wet
  • Changing trail conditions require a map, compass, and navigation skills
  • Parts of trail marked with cairns
  • Trekking poles recommended for traversing beaver dams a part of trail

Trailheads

Water
This trail section from North Desor Campground to Windigo is the longest section of the Minong Ridge Trail. Accessible water sources are not available along this trail. Purify water at Lake Desor before hiking to Windigo.

Changing Trail Conditions
There a is a series of beaver dams that are a part of the trail. Backpackers walk along the length of beaver dams instead of going around them. Trekking poles will come in handy crossing the beaver dams. Before hitting the trail, check in with Visitor Center staff for the most up-to-date trail conditions. Beaver activity causes changing trail conditions. A map, compass, and the skills to use them together are vital for hiking this trail.

Boardwalks
There is also a long winding board walk through a cedar forest. Board walks are slippery when wet. Proceed with caution. 

Found Nearby

  • North Desor Campground
  • Washington Creek Campground
  • Huginnin Cove Campground
  • Windigo Visitor Center
  • Windigo Camp Store
  • Wendigo Mine
  • Windigo Marina
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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North Desor Campground

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Washington Creek Campground

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Huginnin Cove Campground

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Last updated: April 5, 2022