Michigan’s Isle Royale is a remote pocket of beauty and an example that not every national park is a busy tourist destination. If you're looking for a peaceful and quiet getaway, Isle Royale is the place. With miles of trails to hike and a number of campgrounds and lakes for kayaking, you’re welcome to participate in the activities of your choice, or just enjoy the serenity of America’s least crowded national park.
Before you leave for Isle Royale National Park, be sure to purchase travel insurance as a safety net against any unexpected and potentially costly mishaps.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Isle Royale National Park- FAQs
No matter how meticulous you are when planning a trip, things like unpredictable weather, canceled flights, medical emergencies and delays can make it go awry. This why trip cancellation insurance is so important. It can protect your finances and reimburse you for nonrefundable, prepaid bookings and other travel mishaps.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my Isle Royale National Park travel?
Trip cancellation insurance can cover your expenses in the case of canceled flights, lost luggage, delayed flights, trip interruption and more. It can be your financial safety net when your travel plans seem to have plans of their own.
What should I look for in my Isle Royale National Park trip cancellation insurance?
Make sure your policy offers the types of coverage you’re looking for. You could opt for specific coverages such as cancel for any reason coverage as well. Read the details of the plans available to you carefully and choose the one that fits your needs the best.
If you buy travel insurance, you can vacation with less worry should things not go as you had planned.
5 Things to do in Isle Royale National Park
See the Lights
The Rock Island Light, also known as the Rock Harbor Light, is the oldest and most visited lighthouse in Isle Royale. It continues to help guide boats as they navigate the water to this day. There are a total of four lighthouses in the park, three of which are still active. Although entering lighthouses is not allowed, you can walk the grounds and enjoy taking in their historical wonder.
Spend a Night Camping
There are only two ways to access campsites: by foot or by water. All the campgrounds in the park provide basic amenities like water sources, sites for tents, and outhouses. Some campgrounds on Lake Superior also offer picnic tables and shelters. Permits are required for groups larger than six. If you are adventurous, you can go cross-country camping with an additional permit.
See the Sights
You can choose to opt for cruises that include beautiful places like Minong Mine, Edisen Fishery and Passage Island. The Rock Harbor and Windigo Visitor Centers offer programs on the cultural and natural history of the park. Make sure to take part in one if you get the opportunity.
Day Hiking
Hiking is one of the most common ways to explore Isle Royale National Park. Ranging from short outings to long treks, a number of hikes are available in both the Rock Harbor and Windigo areas.
Get A Glimpse of The Northern Lights
If you’re lucky, you might get to see the famous Aurora Borealis during your stay in the park. You’ll stare in awe as a kaleidoscope of colors take over the sky. It’s a truly otherworldly experience.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Isle Royale National Park
Carry Plenty of Drinking Water
Spigots or faucets are the only places to find drinking water in Rock Harbor and Windigo. Water is seasonally available from the end of May through the end of September. Lake and stream water in the park is unfit for drinking. Due to a lack of potable water, you must pack sufficient drinking water to prevent dehydration.
Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather
There is a huge difference between the temperatures on the water and on land; sometimes more than 40 degrees. Therefore, you should pack extra layers to be safe. Call (906) 482-0984 to check on the latest weather conditions in the park.
Be Respectful of Wildlife
More than 20 varieties of mammals call Isle Royale National Park home. They include moose, red foxes, gray wolves, beavers, mink, river otters and snowshoe hares. Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Don't feed or touch them under any circumstances and contact a ranger if you see an animal acting strangely.
Carry a First-Aid Kit
Outdoor adventures always carry with them the risk of injury. With limited medical assistance close by, you should always carry a first-aid kit to treat minor injuries. In case of emergency, dial 911 and contact the ranger station immediately.
Canoeing & Kayaking Safety
Canoeists and kayakers should read up on the safety hazards involved in the sport. Everyone is aware of the cold climate surrounding Lake Superior, but you should also know that it can generate waves due to sudden squalls that can capsize small boats. Limited outer shore landing sites combine to make it a potential danger, so always wear your lifejacket.
Before You Travel to Isle Royale National Park - Do This
- Pack your own food. There are very few places near the park to find food. The camp stores at Snug Harbour and Windigo offer only limited groceries and a few selections of snacks. Therefore, it’s important to pack enough food for your entire stay.
- Pick the right time of year. Isle Royale is the only national park in the U.S. that is completely closed for part of the year. The park is closed from November to mid-April due to harsh winter weather, so spring and summer are the times to visit.
- Be prepared. Buy adequate travel insurance so you can enjoy the peace of mind of being financially covered during your vacation.