We are going to strap our kayaks to the roof of a ferry, motor over fifty miles out to the largest island in the largest lake in the world and go kayaking. This is not a small thing.
Isle Royale Kayaking on Lake Superior
This is a magical place wrapped up in ancient rock, thimbleberries and the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. This unique island park with its moose and wolves is a popular destination for backpackers, but since it is an island we thought that it would make more sense to explore it by kayak!
There will be plenty of time for day hikes, brisk swims, good lake trout fishing, kayaking and listening to the loons.
To ensure your safety and maintain the flexibility of small camps, we limit this trip to only five participants. Isle Royale kayaking can be challenging, with weather conditions that can get a bit “interesting”. Though not appropriate for first time paddlers, for those with a little water time, Isle Royale is truly a Lake Superior Jewel.
Itinerary
Day 1
Rendezvous in Copper Harbor at 7 PM for a quick backcountry packing orientation.
Day 2
7 AM boarding of the Isle Royale Queen for the 5 hour ride to Rock Harbor. Organize and pack for the short paddle to the first campsite. Go over basic strokes, braces and rescue drills.
Days 3-7
The heart of the trip–you’ll find yourself paddling an average of 4 or 5 hours/day sandwiched with day hikes, fishing, shooting photos, looking for Moose and listening to the music of our largest freshwater sea. We may choose a layover at a particularly nice campsite to give us more time to explore and linger a bit. You should be prepared for temps between 40- 80…bring a wool hat and a swimsuit. We’ll be covering 50 to 70 miles total with a fairly relaxed pace. You can count on learning lots of new paddle skills and having a truly spectacular experience.
Day 8
In the afternoon, we’ll be ferried back to Copper Harbor for a fine meal at the Harbor Haus, and a good night’s sleep.
Day 9
After breakfast, we’ll part company for your homeward travels.
Dates and Costs for 2018
July 21 – 29 (9 days): $1395 Full with wait list
July 31 – August 5 (6 days – Beginners welcome!): $995 1 space left!
August 11 – 19 (9 days): $1395 1 space left!
September 2 – 11 (10 days): $1495 Full with wait list
Isle Royale Kayaking Trip Fee Includes:
One night double occupancy lodging before and after in Copper Harbor, round trip ferry fees for both you and a kayak, expert instructor guides, all group gear (tents, kitchen gear, safety and camp gear), National Park Service permits and daily user fee, maps, dry bags and gourmet backcountry fare….lots of bang for your buck.
Kayaking Equipment
We do not include kayaks on this trip because most paddlers at this level have their own. Your boat should be a touring kayak at least 16 feet long, with front and rear bulkheads. High performance expedition-equipped rentals are available from us for $100 for 4 day trips and $150 for one week trips with prior reservation. They include PFD, carbon hybrid paddle, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. We offer a variety of sizes and models from Valley, Wilderness Systems and NDK…most with drop skegs.
What to Bring
Trip Gallery
Participant Profile Form
We need the Participant Profile Form when you register!
Registration
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