Greenstone Ridge Trail

May to

September

Kilometers

Days

8h 6m

FKT (Standard)

About the Route

WHY TREK IT?

The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a 3- to 5-day hike through Isle Royale National Park, the biggest island in Lake Superior. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, mostly thanks to its remote location. The park is famous for its high concentrations of wolves and moose, as well as beautiful forest and lake views.

“The Greenstone route is a Michigan classic, recognized in backpacking circles as one of the premier long-distance routes in the Midwest.”

- Jim DuFrense

The Greenstone Ridge Trail crosses Isle Royale from Lookout Louise in the east to Windigo in the west. However, most hikers start at Mount Franklin or Mount Ojibway to avoid backtracking from the ferry dock. In fact, most who have visited Isle Royale say coordinating ferries is the greatest challenge. Availability can determine whether you hike east to west or vice versa. Ferry services should be available from Houghton and Copper in Michigan and Grand Portage in Minnesota.