Isle Royale Backpacking Adventure
Price
Activity Level
Level 2-4
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
Overview
Lake Superior’s Isle Royale National Park is an island of wild creatures, unspoiled forests, refreshing lakes, and rugged scenery. Hike trails known for moose sightings, amazing stargazing from reduced light population, and visit one of the least frequented National Parks, as you can only reach the island via boat or plane. Discover this U.S. Biosphere Reserve known for its isolated population of wolves and moose. Trip fee includes a round-trip ferry from the mainland.
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Delicious, healthy campfire meals & snacks prepared together
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Shared, cozy tents
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Camp at Judge C.R. Magney State Park
Drive from Minneapolis to Grand Portage, MN. Set up camp at Judge C.R. Magney State Park, while getting packs and gear ready to meet the ferry in the morning. That evening, get to know your trip mates over a delicious meal!
Day 2 – Ferry ride to Rock Harbor in Isle Royale
Rise early to meet the morning ferry for a 5-hour boat ride to Rock Harbor on the Northwestern end of the island. Pick up permits at the ranger station then get ready to start your hike and set up camp for night 1 on the island at Three Mile campsite.
Day 3 – Trek from Three Mile Island to Daisy Farm campsite
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before breaking camp and setting out on your way to Daisy Farm. Your first full day on the Island! Take a short hike from your campsite at Daisy Farm to check out the Mount Ojibway fire tower for panoramic views of the island.
Day 4 – Hike from Daisy Farm to Moskey Basin
Enjoy serene views of Lake Superior and spot wildlife on your way to Moskey Basin. This stage includes some rocky sections, but the terrain is overall rather gradual.
Day 5 – Break camp and head towards Chippewa Harbor
Wake up refreshed and prepare for your longest hike of the trip. Today you’ll enjoy a 6.2 mile hike with stunning views on your way to your last island campsite at Chippewa Harbor.
Day 6 – Enjoy one last Isle Royale sunrise
Rise early for breakfast and a final hike out to board the ferry back to Grand Portage.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.Â
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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