Isle Royale National Park is one of the most remote, untouched wilderness destinations in the United States. Nestled in the vast expanse of Lake Superior, this rugged island offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with nature.

As Keweenawans and longtime fans of Isle Royale, we wanted to share the journey that begins long before your boots hit the trail—the ferry ride.

Whether you’re planning your first Isle Royale trip or returning for another wilderness escape, choosing the right ferry to Isle Royale can shape your entire experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the different ferries to Isle Royale, what to expect on each one, and how to make the most of your crossing to this wild and wonderful place.

Why Go?

Isle Royale National Park is a true escape into unspoiled wilderness, offering solitude and pristine landscapes as one of the least-visited (but most re-visited!) national parks.

With over 165 miles of scenic trails, including the iconic Greenstone Ridge Trail, it’s a hiker’s paradise for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. The park is also renowned for its unique wildlife, especially its legendary moose and wolf populations, offering visitors a rare glimpse into an ongoing predator-prey relationship.

At night, the park transforms into a haven for stargazing, with dark skies free from light pollution, while the still, glass-like waters of Lake Superior provide a serene backdrop to the island’s untouched beauty.

Before You Go: How to Get to Isle Royale

Ferry or Seaplane?

There’s no road leading to Isle Royale. Instead, the adventure begins before you even arrive, with two options for crossing Lake Superior:

Ferry from Copper Harbor or Houghton – A 3-hour or 6-hour voyage across the world’s largest freshwater lake. The slow approach allows anticipation to build, the sight of the island growing steadily on the horizon.

Seaplane from Hancock – A 35-minute flight soaring over the lake, offering breathtaking aerial views of the island’s rugged coastline.

Which is right for you?

Cost Considerations – The ferry is more budget-friendly, while the seaplane is faster and offers an unforgettable aerial perspective.
Departure Experience – Copper Harbor and Houghton both provide ferry service, each offering a unique journey before you even reach the island.

Taking the Ferry to Isle Royale: What to Expect

For many, the ferry ride to Isle Royale isn’t just how you get there—it’s where the adventure begins. Whether you board in Houghton or Copper Harbor, crossing Lake Superior is an experience in itself, with wide-open water, fresh air, and the gradual reveal of a remote island unlike anywhere else in the U.S.

Booking Tickets

Ferry reservations are essential and tend to fill up fast, especially in peak summer months.

The Ranger III, operated by the National Park Service, departs from Houghton and offers a slower, steadier ride with plenty of space for backpackers and gear.

The Isle Royale Queen IV, which runs from Copper Harbor, is a faster, privately operated vessel known for its scenic open-deck views. Each ferry has its own schedule, boarding time, and frequency—so double-check availability and book early to secure your preferred route.

Boarding Process

No matter which ferry you take, plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. In Houghton, check in at the Ranger III dock and prepare for gear inspection (the NPS is thorough about keeping the island free of invasives). In Copper Harbor, head to the Queen IV ticket office along the waterfront—gear is loaded separately, and the crew will guide you through the process. Whether digital or printed, make sure your ticket is accessible even without cell service. Staff will scan your QR code or confirm your name before boarding begins.

Onboard Experience

The Ranger III offers a relaxed, 6-hour crossing with spacious indoor seating, restrooms, and even a small galley selling snacks and drinks. It’s a peaceful ride and a great place to unwind before hitting the trail.

The Queen IV is all about speed and scenery. The 3-hour trip offers both indoor cabins and an upper deck for taking in Lake Superior’s sweeping views. Whichever ferry you choose, dress in layers—the lake can get chilly even in summer—and bring a snack, a water bottle, and a camera. On calm days, the water sparkles endlessly; on rougher ones, the waves make for an exhilarating (and sometimes bumpy) ride.

Weather Considerations

Lake Superior is famously unpredictable.

Calm mornings can give way to wind and waves by afternoon. While both ferries are well-equipped to handle changing conditions, delays and cancellations can happen—especially later in the season or during sudden storms.

Seasickness is rare but possible, especially on the faster Queen IV during choppy crossings. Ginger chews, motion sickness bands, or meds can go a long way in making the ride more comfortable.

Most importantly, build some flexibility into your itinerary just in case nature decides to rearrange your plans.

Copper Harbor vs. Houghton Departures

Both ports offer ferry access to Isle Royale, but each comes with its own character. Copper Harbor provides a more direct route, while Houghton offers a longer, more immersive voyage across the water.

No matter where you depart from, the ferry isn’t just transportation—it’s the first chapter of your Isle Royale journey

Planning Your Time on Isle Royale

Day Trip vs. Multi-Day Adventure

Isle Royale may be remote, but it offers something for every kind of adventurer—from those seeking a taste of wilderness in a single day to backpackers ready to disappear into the wild for a week or more. Whether you're visiting for a few hours or several days, how you spend your time on the island will shape your experience.

Day Trip from Copper Harbor

If you’re short on time or simply want a taste of the island, the Rock Harbor Day Trip is a great option. Departing from Copper Harbor aboard the Isle Royale Queen IV, this day trip gives you about three hours on the island, enough time to stretch your legs, soak in the scenery, and get a feel for the park's rugged charm. Many visitors use this window to hike the Stoll Memorial Trail, a well-marked and scenic route that leads through rocky bluffs, forest, and along the lake. Others take to the water with a short paddle in Tobin Harbor, or stop by the visitor center to participate in the Junior Ranger Program—a great option for families.

While it's a short visit, the journey itself is part of the magic. The ferry departs at 8:00 AM and returns around 6:30 PM, offering plenty of views across Lake Superior. Just be aware that weather can impact the schedule, and services on the island are limited—so bring your own snacks, water, and layers to stay comfortable.

Multi-Day Adventure

If you have more time, Isle Royale truly comes into its own. With over 160 miles of trails and dozens of backcountry campsites, a multi-day trip allows you to fully immerse yourself in the solitude and wild beauty of the island. Planning ahead is essential—routes can vary in difficulty and distance, and ferry or seaplane pickup times must be carefully aligned with your hiking schedule.

Start by choosing your route. Some of the most popular multi-day treks include the Rock Harbor to Moskey Basin loop, the Greenstone Ridge Trail, or a one-way crossing that ends at Windigo (if you’re flying or boating out from the west end). Each route offers a different perspective of the island—whether it’s inland ridges, coastal shorelines, or deep forest trails.

Highlights to consider include:

Moskey Basin – One of the most beloved campgrounds on the island, Moskey Basin offers quiet shelters right on the water. Loons call out across the bay in the early morning, and the sunrise over Lake Superior is unforgettable.
Stoll Memorial Trail – Even if you did it on a day trip, this short hike is worth repeating. The trail winds past historic remnants of early scientific expeditions and mining efforts, offering a mix of scenery and story.
Mount Ojibway Tower – At 1,136 feet, it’s one of the highest points on the island. The fire tower offers panoramic views that stretch across the island’s forested ridges and out to the glimmering blue of Superior.
Rock Harbor Lodge – If you’re not into roughing it the entire time, a night or two at the lodge can be a welcome treat. It’s the only full-service lodging on the island, with cozy rooms, a waterfront deck, and a restaurant where you can toast your trek with a cold drink and a hot meal.

Whether you come for a few hours or a few nights, Isle Royale has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left its shores. Plan well, travel light, and leave room for the unexpected—you’re in for something special.

Leaving Isle Royale: What to Expect on the Return Ferry

Your journey doesn’t end when you step back onto the ferry. The return trip offers a chance to reflect, rest, and ease your body back into civilization—slowly.

Waiting for the Ferry

After days immersed in the wilderness, returning to the dock can feel a bit surreal. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the designated pick-up point, and be sure to check updated departure times posted at the ranger station or dock. Depending on the ferry service, you might have to wait outside, so layer up if the wind picks up off the lake. Use this time to hydrate, snack, and soak in the final views—you may even spot a moose one last time.

Boarding & Tickets

Most ferry services accept digital tickets, but signal on the island can be spotty. Download or screenshot your boarding pass ahead of time, or carry a printed copy just in case. Staff will often do a final check of passenger counts before loading, so be near the dock and ready when they call your name or reservation group.

Common Challenges

Weather can always throw a wrench into even the best-laid plans. High waves or fog may delay departures by hours—or even an extra day. This is part of the Isle Royale experience. Have an extra meal or snack handy, and build flexibility into your itinerary if possible. Many hikers trade stories while waiting out delays—an unexpected silver lining to unpredictable weather.

Post-Hike Recovery

By the time you board, your legs will have earned every mile. The ferry ride back is often quieter than the trip out. Tired bodies slouch into padded benches. Some people nap. Others sip tea and gaze out across Lake Superior, already missing the stillness of the island. Take this time to rest and let the transition begin gently.

After the Journey: Relax & Refuel

If You’re Staying in Copper Harbor

If you're staying in Copper Harbor, give yourself time to decompress.

A private sauna session at TAKKA Superior is the perfect way to sweat out the trail dust and soothe your tired muscles. The deep heat can work wonders on stiff legs and sore feet.

Afterward, you might find yourself drawn to Jamsen’s for a pastry and a cup of coffee, or to The Mariner for a warm, satisfying meal with local flair.

Heading Home via Houghton/ Hancock?

For those heading south through Houghton or Hancock, the return trip can still have one last moment of restoration.

TAKKA Portage offers a welcoming spot to pause, reset, and warm up before you hit the road.

And if you’re in need of fuel—both for the drive and for yourself—Keweenaw Coffee Works serves up handcrafted drinks and nourishing food that hits just right after days in the wild.

The Journey Continues…

Isle Royale is more than a destination—it’s a rhythm, an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Whether it’s the deep stillness of the forest or the rejuvenation of a fireside sauna, every step of the journey is a chance to reconnect—with nature, with yourself, and with the people who share in the adventure.

Crossing Superior: The Voyage to Isle Royale