Added: 12/22/2005 |
Nature?s Gem: Isle Royale National ParkIsle Royale National Park is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This 45-mile long archipelago in northern Lake Superior remains one of the few places in the United States that is untouched by automobile. It is accessible only by ferry or seaplane, but any difficulty in getting there is well worth the many rewards Isle Royale park offers.
There are a few public transportation options to get to Isle Royale. The Ranger III ferry sails from Houghton, MI to Isle Royale park on Tuesdays and Fridays May 31 through September 10th. It makes the return voyage back to Houghton on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The trip is 6-hours one-way, so those prone to motion sickness should be prepared. For those looking for a shorter ferry ride, the Isle Royale Queen IV operates out of Copper Harbor, MI and offers a 3-hour trip each way. The Isle Royale Queen IV sails May 16th through September 30th, with sailing dates varying based on the week. For those who prefer to fly to Isle Royale, Royale Air Service offers seasonal daily flights to and from the island. For just $240 per person, you can reduce your traveling time to the island to just 35 minutes.
Once at Isle Royale, your options are almost endless. If you enjoy fishing, you can fish in the lakes and streams of the park without a Michigan fishing license, or you can enjoy the waters of Lake Superior with your Michigan fishing license. For those interested in exploring the waters of Isle Royale, there are many scuba diving opportunities. Scuba divers must first obtain a diving permit before entering the park, but then they can enjoy the 4 ½ miles of prime diving waters. For those who enjoy wreck diving, there are 10 major wrecks within the island's waters - all accessible to divers who have the experience and skill to explore.
For those who enjoy hiking, Isle Royale offers 165 miles of scenic hiking trails. You can enjoy all the beauty and wonder the Lake Superior panorama has to offer, go in search of same native wildlife (of course only to catch a glimpse, as all animals in the park are protected) or explore the abandoned copper mines.
For those traveling with children, the Junior Ranger program offers a great opportunity for children to enjoy the wonders Isle Royale has to offer. This program takes one to two days to complete and the children receive a badge and certificate upon completion of the program. Your children will work with you and the Rangers to solve the mysteries of life on the island and to achieve a greater understand of the world around them.
For the truly adventurous, Isle Royale offers 36 campgrounds with both tent sites and shelters. All campers must observe the "leave-no-trace" principals to protect the environment. Essentially, everything that is carried in must be carried out. Campfire opportunities are very limited, so campers should be prepared with their own backpacking stoves.
Whatever facet of nature you wish to partake in, Isle Royale has something to offer. Since it is so far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, it is one of the least visited parks in the National Park system. However, it is perfect for those looking to enjoy the solitude and wonder of what Mother Nature has to offer.
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