We're going to Isle Royale for a few days in early August and are staying at the Rock Harbor Lodge. My question to anyone who has been there is: is it better to stay in the Lodge itself or one of the cottages? My understanding is that both are rather "bare bones," with no frills, but that the cottages have kitchenettes so that you can make your own meals with provisions that you either bring with or buy at the general store there.

I know this is a very out of the way place where few travel, so any thoughts will be much appreciated!

I have stayed in the lodge and the cabins. How many people do you have? If more than two, than the cabins are the better deal. The lodge CAN include all meals and that is where you save in the cabins. If you do decide on the cabins, bring all your food with you. The employees deliver your luggage to your cabin so you don't need to lug the food/coolers.

The best thing about early August are the blueberries and thimbleberries. The best place for blueberries is on the north shore of the island by McCargo Cove. You can take a day trip by boat around to the cove with a visit to early copper mines. Last time there, we picked enough berries for pancakes the next morning.

Also plan to go over to Raspberry Island. It is a very short[1/2 mile] ride across the harbor, very nice trails and interesting plants.

Another fun excursion is to the Edison Lighthouse and fishery. You will pass it on your way to the harbor if you come on the Ranger III.

Let me know if you have more questions. My husband and daughter are planning to backpack for a week in early August and are getting excited to go.

SuzieTrue

Thanks so much for your response. It will just be my husband and me. We are leaning towards staying in the lodge. We will only be there for 2 full days and the 2 half days, when we arrive and depart, so any more suggestions on must-see or do activities to help us maximize our time would be appreciated. We are hoping to do a couple decent-sized hikes and explore a bit by boat. The blueberries and thimbleberries sound terrific!

Please post a trip report, ps. We are considering a trip to the area.

Two hikes we enjoyed were to Mt. Franklin and Lookout Louise. The views on clear days are unbelievable.

Mt. Franklin is 10 miles round trip from the lodge. It can also be done by canoeing to the end of Tobin Harbor.

Lookout Louise is only 2 miles round trip but you need to canoe to the start.

A correction from earlier, it is the Rock Harbor Lighthouse and Edisen Fishery.

Canoes and small motor boats can be rented at Rock Harbor. These are good for exploring near to shore in either Rock or Tobin harbor.

The trip to McCargo Cove is only on Wednesday but is worth the time.

If you go with the meal plan, the restaurant will pack you a lunch if you let them know at dinner the night before.

Hope you have a good time!

SuzieTrue

Forgot to mention the fresh Lake Superior white fish. They bring it down from the fishery just before dinner. Always a great choice.

ST

PS1111,
Are you back yet? Love to hear how your trip went. DH said it was the hottest weather he has ever had on the island.
SuzieTrue

Isle Royale is on our list of places to visit.

Does anyone know what fall weather is like there or what would be the best time to visit?

Services after Labor Day are minimal. The best time to visit is during August. The weather is at its warmest and you have the fewest bugs. Even though the park is officially open until late Sept.-early Oct. most of the boats have cut way back and the lodge and restaurant at Rock Harbor close right after Labor Day.

ps1111,

Would love to hear how the trip went.

SuzieTrue