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Michigan

ISLE ROYALE

ESTABLISHED 1940


From the frigid waters of Lake Superior rises a pristine island cradling untouched wilderness, where wolves and moose find refuge in boreal forests bound by freshwater that beats the shore with the wild energy of an ocean.

Born of volcanoes and sculpted by ancient glaciers, Isle Royale’s mystique has enchanted modern explorers in the Midwest for more than 100 years. Sitting in the middle of the world’s second largest freshwater body, Lake Superior, this relatively obscure park is a tousled world of lush trees, hidden lagoons, and stunning shoreline. The lack of communications signals offers solitude to all who seek it.

The island is 99 percent protected wilderness, so virtually anywhere you go, hiking opportunities overflow. Protected coves and bays shield paddlers from choppy waters, while inland lakes offer more tranquil experiences—however, you will have to portage (carry your watercraft). If underwater life piques your interest, cold-water scuba adventures will bring you to 10 shipwrecks while swimming among 40 fish species and diverse aquatic plants. For low-key adventure, there are ranger-led excursions from Rock Harbor, the park’s hub, to historic places such as the Rock Harbor Light Head, a hop and a float away.

At the Bangsund Cabin near the Edisen Fishery, you can see specimens from decades of study on the moose and wolf populations and learn from the researchers about the historic grounds where these majestic creatures live.

A Story of Wildlife Symbiosis

The world’s longest predator-prey study examines the relationship between the wolf and moose populations on Isle Royale. The research has spurred recent efforts by the Park Service to reintroduce wolves here.

1900s

In the early 20th century, moose arrive on the isle. It is unclear how they get there, but it is thought they swim from Canada.

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1940s

Wolves cross an iced-over Lake Michigan from Canada, creating a dynamic wildlife environment where both flourish.

1958

Amid declining wolf numbers, the Wolves and Moose study of Isle Royale monitors animal populations, human impact, and plant life.

1960s

Early work focuses on the plant-based food supply of prey, and how its health contributes to the sustainability of wolves.

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1980

Wolf populations diminish after a canine-introduced virus reaches the island, showing the direct effects of human activity.

2005

Moose populations sink to the lowest recorded, 540, while wolf numbers are strong, at 30. In three years, the balance will shift: 700 to 23.

2018

Only two wolves remain, alongside more than 1,500 moose. The National Park Service spearheads a reintroduction program.

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BEST FOR

Skygazing

Early and late in the season, when the sky is at its darkest, astro-buffs get their fill when the enchanting Aurora Borealis can be seen dancing with green, red, and purple bands of color.

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The rocky shoreline along the coast makes for vigorous hiking

Did You Know?

Isle Royale National Park is the least visited of the national parks in the contiguous US—and the most revisited.

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