National Parks - Michigan

Isle Royale National Park

6/20/2009 Drove just a couple miles at 8:00 to the boat dock and boarded the ferry Wenonah. Right at the last minute we stuffed a sweatshirt in our packs – good call. Spectacular day – cool, dry, clear sun. We sat in the bow area outside. Cruised out into Lake Superior and, after checking out the shoreline including an interesting tree on a rock, headed straight for the SW end of Isle Royale. Rapidly decided to put on a sweatshirt and windbreaker, and hat/hood for me, and we were still cold when the sun went behind a cloud. Droned on for over two hours before entering the harbor on Isle Royale. Right at the entrance we barely spotted the wreck of the America. Up the channel and docked at Windigo after three hours, greeted by the NPS rangers. A quick orientation, then first stop – lunch! Went to the camp store and got really good turkey sandwiches which we ate outside at a table. Checked out some exhibits at the VC (animals, the original lighthouse Fresnel lens, America diorama), then hit the Feldtmanm Trail along the harbor. Totally beautiful trees, water, sky, everything, hiking in short sleeves. Cruised along for a while then headed back to ensure catching the boat. On the way went down to the water’s edge to enjoy the views including some Loons. Back to the store for some shopping, the VC for a last look around, and returned to the boat. Sat up front again, and as soon as we got up to speed outside the harbor back on with the warm clothes. This route took us to the harbor entrance lighthouse for a photo op, then the long haul for the three hour total return. Pulled in around 5:15.

Me on the cold ride to the island

Ken at the park sign

A flora close-up

A panorama of Washington Harbor

Beaver Island and the harbor

Our ride

Rock of Ages Lighthouse