Nestled in the heart of Lake Superior, the secluded charm of Isle Royale National Park beckons the adventurous spirit. Getting to this rugged paradise is an adventure all its own, with choices ranging from a leisurely ferry ride to a thrilling seaplane journey.
Once there, visitors can immerse themselves in pristine wilderness, from accessible hiking trails through verdant forests to serene wheelchair-accessible boat rides along the craggy coastline. However, with Isle Royale being the least-visited US National Park in the lower 48 states and 99% of the park being federally designated wilderness, anyone with a disability traveling to this island may have some questions about Isle Royale accessibility.
Being so rarely visited and so remote with limited resources, in our opinion Isle Royale is not one of the most disability-friendly US National Parks. That being said, the park does do a very good job with ADA-compliant transportation, lodging, bathrooms, stores, restaurants and limited natural areas. However, due to its rugged terrain and lack of roads, it might not be on the top of the list of national parks to visit with someone with mobility issues.
Whether you’re pitching a tent at dusk or quietly observing moose and wolves in their natural habitat, Isle Royale’s accessibility ensures that this unspoiled national park is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you. This Isle Royale Accessibility Guide for visitors with disabilities simplifies your adventure, from ferry info to trail insights.
Why Should You Trust Us?
Having hiked around the entire island with someone with a permanent disability, we’ll share insider tips and our honest observations about Isle Royale accessibility. We’ll help you plan your trip with accessibility at the forefront to avoid dangerous or stressful situations on this remote island. With a little preparation, you and your entire family can all spend your time enjoying the unique beauty of Isle Royale National Park.
In this article, we’ll review Isle Royale National Park’s accessibility for mobility, visual, hearing and learning impaired individuals, as well as those with ADA Service Dogs and wheelchairs. We’ll help with planning how to get to and from Isle Royale for those with accessibility needs. Plus, we’ll recommend activities and trails and review Isle Royale’s ADA-compliant accommodations and amenities.
Key Takeaways
Isle Royale is a beautiful, wild island in Lake Superior with no cars, you can only get there by boat or plane. This national park has superb wildlife viewing, trails for hiking, barrier islands for paddling and places to stay for all visitors. However, be aware that its remote nature makes it a little challenging to visit so if someone in your group has a disability, be sure to contact the park and transportation operators beforehand for a smooth stay.
Natural Barriers: Understanding Isle Royale’s Secluded Charm
Envision an uninhabited, untouched wilderness in the heart of Lake Superior. This is Isle Royale, a hidden north woods gem whose secluded charm draws more repeat visitors than any other US National Park. Accessibility to Isle Royale may be restricted being so far from mainland. However, its natural beauty and serene environment more than compensate for the journey.
This roadless island 14 miles (22 km) from the mainland is only reachable via a ferry, seaplane, or private watercraft. The island’s remoteness and lack of any direct land connection make it the least visited among the lower 48 states’ U.S. National Parks.
Despite its remote nature, the park offers a range of accessible activities such as boat tours, ranger programs and some hiking trails. One of the accommodations adheres to ADA compliance, making Isle Royale a unique destination for travelers requiring wheelchair or walking device accessibility.
Notably, Isle Royale boasts rich biodiversity with frequent sightings of moose, wolves, loons, beavers, otter and foxes, even right at the ferry docks. The National Park Service has endeavored to improve Isle Royale’s accessibility while preserving its unique ecosystem.
Transportation: Getting to Isle Royale National Park with a Disability
There are three main ways to reach this isolated retreat — by ferry, seaplane or private watercraft. Your car stays on the mainland (there are no roads on Isle Royale) and you and your belongings take a boat or seaplane to Isle Royale. The ferries and seaplanes are for people only, not cars.
Be aware that weather can significantly impact travel plans both in getting to and from the island and during your visit. It’s always wise to check the latest weather forecasts and adhere to official advisories before setting off on your journey. Always bring an extra day’s worth of food and medications as the ferries or seaplanes won’t make the Lake Superior crossing in bad weather. This means you might get stuck on the island an extra day or more!
The ferries and seaplanes do a great job with accommodating individuals with disabilities. However, if you have someone in your group with mobility issues, you should contact the ferry lines and seaplanes prior to booking your ticket. Currently the Ranger III ferry out of Houghton, MI is the only means of transportation to Isle Royale that has adaptive equipment to accommodate a wheelchair.
No Vehicles Allowed on Isle Royale
No vehicles or wheeled devices, other than wheelchairs, are permitted on the island. This rule helps to preserve the island’s pristine natural state and minimizes outdoor recreation impact on wildlife. Keep in mind that 99% of the island is extremely rugged wilderness. The trails are riddled with obstacles the entire length of the island that are too treacherous for even a motorized wheelchair to venture on.
Whether you choose to journey by land or air, each mode of transport offers a unique experience. Ferry rides allow for leisurely sightseeing of Lake Superior while seaplane trips provide a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape.
Pro Tip: If you have mobility issues, especially for those with wheelchairs, it is important to contact the Isle Royale Park Rangers and your ferry or seaplane operator in advance to ensure that necessary accommodations are made in preparation for your arrival.
Planning Your Visit: Best Times and Transportation Methods
The best time to visit Isle Royale hinges mainly on your preferred activities and weather considerations. Due to dangerous conditions on Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park is closed annually from Nov 1 to April 15. Ferries and seaplanes operate on an even shorter schedule, typically running from mid-May to end of September.
From May through September, the island is typically open for visitors. However, keep in mind that the park operates on Eastern Standard Time. Services like the general store, restaurant, lodging options, guided boat tours or kayak and canoe rentals are usually in full swing during this period. For hikers and backpackers, late spring through early fall is ideal.
As for transportation, ferry services from Houghton, MI, Copper Harbor, MI and Grand Portage, MN connect to various points on the island. Seaplanes from Hancock, MI and Grand Marais, MN land at Rock Harbor and Windigo harbors.
Private watercraft and seaplanes can dock at designated places in line with Isle Royale’s accessibility guidelines for diverse transport modes.
- How to Get to Isle Royale?
- Isle Royale Accommodations Review Guide
- What is the Best Time to Visit Isle Royale?
Isle Royale Ferry Services: Schedules and Booking Tips
Only the Ranger III ferry out of Houghton, Michigan offers Isle Royale Ferry services with wheelchair accessible facilities. Notably, the MV Sandy, one of Isle Royale National Park’s boat tour services, also accommodates wheelchairs. However, keep in mind that loading and unloading can be tricky due to changing water levels.
Ferry schedules are usually subject to weather conditions. While pre-booking your trip is advisable, always check the latest schedule updates and booking guidelines to avoid inconvenience or delays. Keep your mobility aids or devices in mind when planning your ferry journey to ensure a seamless experience.
Don’t forget – booking accommodations well in advance not only ensures availability but also offers more choice for accessible rooms with gorgeous barrier island views.
Isle Royale Ferry Accessibility Roundup
- The Ranger III ferry out of Houghton, MI; Rock Harbor, Isle Royale; and Windigo, Isle Royale is wheelchair accessible. Inform the National Park Service staff when making ferry reservations. This ensures someone is readily available to help with loading and unloading up and down the gangplanks. The lower deck of the Ranger III has a grill and restrooms that are accessible.
- The Isle Royale Queen IV out of Copper Harbor, MI and Rock Harbor, Isle Royale cannot accommodate a wheelchair.
- The Voyageur II and Sea Hunter III out of Grand Portage, MN are not wheelchair accessible. Per their site “Our vessels may not be able to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.” The “dock” in the Grand Portage marina is also a hazard for even those with full mobility but hopefully it will be repaired soon!
- The MV Sandy, a boat sightseeing tour operating out of Rock Harbor, Isle Royale to various points of interest on the island, is wheelchair accessible. While the boat is ADA accessible, the hikes during the tour are not accessible (ex: Passage Island Lighthouse, Lookout Louise, Edisen Fishery, Raspberry Island). However, it’s a beautiful tour to be on the water and see the barrier islands, lighthouses and potentially loons, otters and moose. Contact Rock Harbor Lodge upon arriving on the island to make wheelchair arrangements and boat tour reservations.
- How to Get to And From Isle Royale: A Complete Guide
- 20 Expert Travel Tips for Isle Royale National Park
- Isle Royale Must-See Attractions
Seaplane Trips to Isle Royale: A Quicker Option
For those who prefer a quicker route, seaplanes offer a swift and exciting journey to Isle Royale. The seaplanes provide a quicker travel time than a ferry. Keep in mind that luggage restrictions may apply, and weather conditions can also affect flight schedules.
Seaplanes are also significantly more expensive transportation options than the ferry. However, they are a great way to maximize time on the island, especially for day trippers.
While charter flights may not provide all the necessary accessibility equipment as standard ferries, companies usually cater to specific needs upon request. Therefore, ensure to mention any additional requirements such as mobility accommodations when booking your seaplane flight.
- Isle Royale Seaplanes out of Hancock, Michigan & Grand Marais, Minnesota to Rock Harbor and Windigo on Isle Royale are NOT wheelchair accessible. Per the Isle Royale Seaplanes Director of Operations:
Hiking on Isle Royale: Trail Accessibility and Tips for Beginners
While Isle Royale’s rugged charm allures many adventurous backpackers, its network of accessible trails beckons beginners and those requiring mobility accommodations. Visitors can experience the island’s natural beauty on these ADA-compliant trails.
Before setting out, ensure to have suitable hiking wear, proper, sturdy footwear, and necessary accessibility equipment or mobility aids.
Not sure what to bring for your day hike? Check out our free day hiking packing list printable PDF.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your bug spray and insect head net while adventuring at Isle Royale!
Remember, it’s about the journey, not just the destination. Take your time to fully appreciate the panoramic views and diverse wildlife that these trails have to offer.
- Best Day Hiking Trails in Isle Royale
- Can’t Miss Isle Royale Photography Locations
- Isle Royale Wildlife Spotting Tips
Wheelchair and Adaptive Device Friendly Trails
Trails connecting the Windigo and Rock Harbor ferry docks to restrooms, showers, general stores, restaurants and lodging are ADA compliant. However, there are limited options for developed ADA compliant trails in the interior of the island due to Isle Royale’s wilderness designation and rugged terrain.
Windigo Wheelchair-Friendly Trails
- Windigo Nature Trail (1.2 mi / 1.9 km): Part of this gravel surfaced self-guided loop trail is accessible. The trail crosses cedar lowlands replete with ferns, hardwood forests of birch and maple with gravel surface. However, part of the trail is rocky and has single wood plank boardwalks.
- Windigo Picnic area: Gravel surface, easy access from docks.
- Roads in immediate Windigo area: Gravel surface but wheelchair accessible. Golf cart needed to access Windigo Visitor Center located up a 19% grade gravel road. Better trail/road options at Rock Harbor.
Rock Harbor Wheelchair-Friendly Trails
- Stoll Memorial Trail: A small part of this gravel surfaced trail to Scoville Point is accessible to wheelchairs, following the coastline.
- Rock Harbor Picnic area: Beautiful paved and gravel area with tables, grills and benches right on the waterfront.
- Roads in immediate Rock Harbor area: Mix of paved and gravel surface. Beautiful views of the harbor, boats, fishing docks.
Other Isle Royale Wheelchair-Friendly Trails
- The interior of Isle Royale National Park is considered Federal Wilderness and thus cannot be developed. The interior trails are rugged, with obstacles like steep rocky climbs, roots, boulders, swamp crossings and narrow boardwalks. Instead, stick to Rock Harbor and Windigo for the best wheelchair experience on Isle Royale.
- Isle Royale Day Trip Itineraries
- 14 Free Isle Royale Maps
- The Best Family-Friendly Activities on Isle Royale
Are wheelchairs allowed on Isle Royale?
Yes – wheelchairs are allowed on Isle Royale! While we were there, we saw a gentleman in a motorized wheelchair having an absolutely wonderful time at Rock Harbor. High clearance golf carts are available at both Windigo and Rock Harbor for visitors with mobility issues.
Keep in mind that outside of the “populated” areas of Rock Harbor and Windigo, 99% of Isle Royale is unfortunately inaccessible to visitors in wheelchairs. The trails are narrow, rugged and rocky, with mud and roots, long swamp crossings on boards. Sometimes you have to wade through murky water or bushwhack where beavers have flooded the trail.
As with all US National Parks, facilities must comply with ADA regulations so the island’s stores, restaurants, hotels, visitor centers, docks, bathrooms, laundry and shower facilities have wheelchair ramps. The Houghton, Michigan visitor’s center and ferry is also ADA compliant.
Physical / Mobility Accessibility on Isle Royale
The majority of Isle Royale trails are extremely rugged. Hikers will encounter roots, rocks, steep inclines, single boards through swamps and water crossings where beavers have flooded the trails.
Keep in mind that there are only two areas on the island accessible to wheelchairs – Rock Harbor on the east and Windigo to the west. 99% of the island is wilderness that is too rugged to access, even with a heavy duty motorized wheelchair.
However, there are relatively flat wheelchair accessible trails at the ferry harbors of Rock Harbor and Windigo. Some of the boat tours to the various islands are wheelchair accessible.
The visitor centers on Isle Royale operate a high clearance golf cart to transport mobility impaired individuals to and from the ferries to various points on Rock Harbor and Windigo, such as the hotel at Rock Harbor Lodge.
You can regularly spot beautiful wildlife such as moose, wolves, otters and loons near the docks, making it a worthwhile destination for all.
Wheelchairs at Rock Harbor
After hiking around the entire island of Isle Royale, Rock Harbor definitely seems to be more of a wheelchair-friendly area of the island than Windigo.
Rock Harbor has more flat gravel trails with some paved areas than Windigo. The beautiful flat trails follow the waterfront connecting the docks, visitor center, the Rock Harbor Lodge hotel and Greenstone Grill / Lighthouse restaurants. There is also more wheelchair accessible waterfront space with spectacular picnic areas versus Windigo.
The MV Sandy boat tours out of Rock Harbor can also accommodate a wheelchair. This might be a fun way to see the different islands, old fisheries and lighthouses like the beautiful Rock Harbor Lighthouse. Boat tour reservations can only be made in person at the Rock Harbor Lodge.
Wheelchairs at Windigo
Windigo’s visitor center is located up a steep gravel hill with a 19% grade. It would be challenging to navigate a wheelchair there unless it was a pretty rugged motorized model or you used one of the golf carts. The Windigo trails are more rugged but there are some nice wide gravel trails through beautiful fields and forests.
Wheelchairs in the Interior of Isle Royale National Park
99% of Isle Royale is wilderness with extremely rugged trails so it would be difficult to navigate many of the interior trails with the large rocks, roots, single plank boardwalks and swampy areas.
Frustratingly enough, there are some wheelchair accessible camping shelters at the beautiful Daisy Farm Campground and Rock Harbor Campground areas but the National Park Service website says that these approach trails are too difficult to access via wheelchair. Hopefully the park will get more funding or volunteer groups to make these trails more accessible in the near future.
For more information about bringing wheelchairs to Isle Royale, learn more here.
Isle Royale Accessibility: Ranger-Led Programs for the Mobility-Impaired
The learning programs at Isle Royale in Windigo, Rock Harbor and on the mainland in Houghton, Michigan are ADA compliant. If you are hoping to attend a specific program but have questions about accessibility, reach out to the Isle Royale park service at least 2 weeks prior to your trip.
- Houghton, MI: Summer programs at the Portage Lake District Library are ADA accessible.
- Rock Harbor: Rock Harbor Auditorium is ADA accessible for evening ranger programs. However, the northeast ramp is wheelchair accessible but 25 ft (8 m) from the paved trail to the ramp is uneven. Guided walks along paved trails are accessible. Find out more info from the Park Rangers at the Rock Harbor Visitor Center.
- Windigo: Programs held at the picnic pavilion near the dock are accessible. However, programs in the visitor center are ADA accessible only with a golf cart due to the 19% grade on the approach trail.
- Junior Ranger Program: Become an Isle Royale Junior Ranger and learn about the unique plants and animals found in the park, the island’s history and leave no trace principles. Even adults can partake (I have at least 5 Junior Ranger badges, all collected as an adult!).
ADA Accessible Visitor Centers, Bathrooms, Amenities on Isle Royale
Houghton, Michigan (Mainland)
- Has ADA accessible entrance and bathrooms.
Rock Harbor, Isle Royale National Park (**Best Choice for Visitors in Wheelchairs**)
- Visitor center has accessible entrance.
- ADA accessible bathrooms are located next to the Greenstone Grill by Rock Harbor Lodge.
- Golf carts operated by National Park Service staff can assist mobility-impaired visitors to and from the Visitor Center, ferry dock, store, Rock Harbor Lodge hotel and restrooms. The golf cart has high clearance and can be challenging to load and unload.
- Please contact the Isle Royale park and your ferry or seaplane operator before arriving to ensure accommodations are prepared for your visit.
Windigo, Isle Royale National Park
- ADA accessible restrooms near the dock with uneven gravel surface to access them.
- Visitor center is located up a 19% grade but building entrance is accessible.
- Golf carts operated by National Park Service staff can assist mobility-impaired visitors to and from the Visitor Center, ferry dock, store and restrooms. The golf cart has high clearance and can be challenging to load and unload.
- There are fewer rangers available at Windigo than Rock Harbor so it’s important to contact the Isle Royale park beforehand to make sure the golf carts are available.
- Contact your ferry or seaplane operator before reserving your ticket to ensure accommodations are prepared for your visit.
- FYI the ferry from Grand Portage, MN to Isle Royale did not appear to be wheelchair-friendly and the Grand Portage mainland ferry “dock” had rotted through in places, making it challenging to navigate for even those with full mobility.
ADA Accessible Lodging and Campsites
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Isle Royale National Park that is wheelchair accessible, Rock Harbor is your best (and, for now, your only) choice.
Rock Harbor Lodging (**Best Choice for Visitors in Wheelchairs**)
- Rock Harbor Lodge: ADA compliant access with ADA accessible rooms.
- Rock Harbor Housekeeping Cabins / Cottages: Most cabins did not appear to be ADA accessible.
- Rock Harbor Campground: There is an ADA accessible four-sided shelter BUT the approach trail is not ADA accessible. Hopefully in the future the National Park Service can build an ADA compliant access trail to this campground.
Windigo Lodging
- Rustic Camper Cabins: Not wheelchair accessible.
- Washington Campground: Access to these campground facilities is NOT wheelchair friendly.
Daisy Farm Campground, Isle Royale National Park
- Daisy Farm Campground: Frustratingly enough, there is an ADA accessible four-sided shelter at Daisy Farm. However, the trails leading to this shelter are not ADA accessible. Hopefully in the future the National Park Service can build an ADA compliant access trail to this beautiful campground.
Deaf / Hearing Loss Accessibility
- Closed captioning is shown at the Houghton, MI Visitor Center park film.
- Leave No Trace camping orientation scripts available upon request at the visitor centers.
- Be alert and take extra caution on Isle Royale for wildlife encounters – moose can be very sneaky when they want to be!
Blind / Low Vision Accessibility
- Braille, text-only and audio-only versions of the Isle Royale brochure are available on the Isle Royale Blind/Low Vision page.
- Contact the park ahead of time to understand what exhibits or hands-on programs cater to visually impaired individuals.
Are Services Dogs Allowed on Isle Royale?
Yes, ADA service dogs are welcome on Isle Royale. However, before arriving to Isle Royale with your service dog, you must:
- complete the required service dog paperwork
- get a veterinary visit no more than 15 days from your visit
- have the veterinary certificate signed off by the Isle Royale Park Superintendent
Without this certificate, your dog will not be allowed on Isle Royale and you will be required to leave immediately. Emotional support dogs or animals are not allowed on Isle Royale. Pets are not allowed within a 4.5 mile radius of Isle Royale’s park boundaries (even on boats). Only certified Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Service dogs are allowed on Isle Royale National Park with required papers and vet examinations.
Learn more about Isle Royale Service Dog requirements here and Isle Royale accessibility for service dog owners.
Why Do You Need a Veterinary Certificate?
In the past, pet dogs of visitors to Isle Royale passed parvovirus to the island’s wolves, foxes and martens which was devastating. Upon introducing parvovirus, the Isle Royale wolf population sickened and died off from 50 individuals to 14 in less than 2 years. Eventually, the wolves became so sick and inbred that by the mid-2010s the population of Isle Royale wolves was decimated to only two individuals.
The National Park Service is serious about protecting their island wildlife. However, to improve Isle Royale accessibility to all, ADA certified dogs are the only animals allowed on the island.
- All About Isle Royale Wolves
- Why aren’t pets allowed on Isle Royale?
- Isle Royale Wildlife Encounter Tips
Service Dogs Expectations Upon Arriving to Isle Royale
When you arrive to Isle Royale, you need to check in with the Park Rangers and show all paperwork. Service dog requirements on island include:
- All service dogs must be leashed and under control at all times.
- Dog fecal matter must be picked up and deposited in a flush toilet or backcountry pit toilet. Viruses can easily spread from dog waste to the island’s wolf population.
- If your service dog becomes ill, you must depart the island immediately to protect against the spread of illness to wildlife.
It is recommended that you stick to the busier areas of Windigo and Rock Harbor to avoid wildlife encounters with aggressive moose and wolves. On the nearby mainland of Minnesota, Michigan and Ontario, every year wolves hunt, injure or even kill domestic dogs.
Learning / Intellectual Accessibility
Park rangers can accommodate special requests or considerations for tours or visitors with learning disabilities with at least two weeks notice. Contact the park at least two weeks prior to your visit so the rangers can ensure they have the staff and programs lined up for you.
The museum at Windigo also has some great learning exhibits and extremely friendly park rangers. A boat trip from Rock Harbor to go fishing or sightseeing would also be a great way to enjoy the park.
The nature trails at Windigo or exploring the harbor area in Rock Harbor are a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Isle Royale. Try renting a canoe or motor boat to explore the barrier islands, inlets and maybe even spot wildlife like otters, moose or loons!
US National Parks Interagency Access Pass for Permanent Disabilities
The National Park Service offers a free lifetime pass for US citizens or permanent residents with permanent disability, regardless of age. The Access Pass is available in person at any park visitor center. Entrance fees are waived for the pass holder and up to 3 additional adults to any national park (which includes over 400 areas!). Some parks also provide a discount on camping and other services with the Access Pass.
Being part of a family with someone with a permanent disability, I cannot recommend the Access Pass enough. We have experienced so many breathtaking parks in the United States and made so many amazing memories that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. The Access Pass is a beautiful way to celebrate life by experiencing adventure together and the healing powers of being outside.
FAQs
How Accessible is Isle Royale for Visitors with Mobility Devices?
Isle Royale is designed to be as accessible as possible for visitors using mobility devices, but only at the Rock Harbor and Windigo harbors. Facilities such as the MV Sandy boat tour accommodate wheelchairs, though loading and unloading might be affected by water levels. There are also wheelchair-accessible rooms available in the Rock Harbor Lodge with views of the island and nearby accessible restaurants, general stores and visitors centers. Isle Royale accessibility for wheelchairs is made possible on the Houghton, MI ferry the Ranger III to the island.
Additionally, some trails and boat tours are designed to be wheelchair-friendly. It’s recommended to check in advance about the specific trails and facilities that meet your accessibility needs. Keep in mind 99% of the island is federal wilderness with rugged, narrow and steep trails typically too difficult to access for wheelchairs.
Are There Any Accessible Transportation Options to Reach Isle Royale?
Yes, there are accessible transportation options, including a ferry and seaplane service which can accommodate visitors with disabilities. However, due to the island’s remote nature, it’s important to plan ahead and confirm these services’ accessibility features. Contacting the transportation providers before your trip is highly encouraged.
Only the Ranger III ferry out of Houghton, MI can accommodate wheelchairs.
Can Visitors with Disabilities Camp on Isle Royale?
Campsites on Isle Royale cater to a range of needs; however, because some require access by hiking rugged trails or paddling via kayak or canoe, planning ahead is essential. For those who require more accessible options, it’s best to contact National Park Services directly for recommendations on the most suitable campsites.
Unfortunately, none of the ADA-compliant camping shelters on Isle Royale are currently accessible to those in wheelchairs due to lack of accessible approach trails. Hopefully, the Isle Royale accessibility for wheelchair campers is improved in the future.
Does Isle Royale Offer Services for Visitors who are Hearing or Visually Impaired?
While specific services for visitors who are hearing or visually impaired may not be broadly advertised, it is suggested that you contact park services prior to arrival. They can offer up-to-date information on any available resources that ensure an inclusive experience while visiting.
Currently for hearing-impaired individuals, closed captioning is shown at the Houghton, MI Visitor Center park film. Leave No Trace scripts are available at any Isle Royale visitor center.
For visually-impaired individuals, braille, audio-only and text-only maps of the island are available on the Isle Royale Blind/Low Vision page.
To What Degree Does the Weather Affect Accessibility on Isle Royale?
Weather significantly influences both access to the island and activities during your stay. Changes in weather patterns can impede travel plans; therefore it’s crucial that visitors check weather conditions closely, especially those requiring accessible travel arrangements.
The ferries to and from Isle Royale will not operate in bad weather conditions. This might mean you may get “stuck” on the island for an extra day or two. Although rare, the ferries do get delayed due to bad weather so it’s important to pack an extra day or two of food and supplies due to bad weather.
Isle Royale National Park is not accessible during the winter due to storms, ice and inhospitable conditions. Every year, Isle Royale National Park closes from November 1 to April 15 with no access to the public during this time.
In Case of Emergencies, How Accommodating Are The Facilities For Individuals with Disabilities?
Bring a Personal Locator Beacon or satellite messenger while hiking in case of emergencies.
Please remember that while facilities try their best to accommodate all visitors’ needs compliantly under ADA guidelines, Isle Royale is extremely remote with limited resources.
Always check directly with park officials or facility managers prior your visit regarding current conditions and specific accommodations you might need.
This ensures a smoother experience during your stay at this unique wilderness retreat.
For further information or assistance planning an accessible trip, contacting both transportation services (ex: ferries, seaplanes) and the National Park Service well in advance will make your Isle Royale National Park visit enjoyable and safe.