Greenstone Ridge Trail

Isle Royale is built of ancient tilted lava flows, and the Greenstone Ridge is the exposed backbone of the largest of these, running the length of the island. The trail follows this ridge, climbing to open, rocky highpoints with long views over the forested island and the vast surrounding waters of Lake Superior, then dipping through woods and past lakes and bogs.

Along the way, hikers pass named highpoints, inland lakes, and backcountry campsites, and they share the wilderness with the island's moose, foxes, loons, and, rarely seen, wolves. The sense of remoteness is profound, with no roads, no towns, and only other backpackers and the sounds of the northern wilds.

A full traverse of the Greenstone Ridge Trail is about 40 miles and typically takes three to five days, requiring backcountry camping, a permit, and full self-sufficiency, since there are no services along the way. It is a serious wilderness backpacking trip that rewards preparation with an unforgettable journey across the island.

For those without the time or experience for the whole route, day hikes onto the ridge, such as the popular climb to Mount Franklin from the Rock Harbor side, offer a taste of the trail's views. However you experience it, remember that Isle Royale is reached only by ferry or seaplane and is open only in the warmer months, so plan transportation, permits, and timing well in advance.

The closest Boutel™ stays, so you can turn this stop into an overnight. Each is a place we chose through independent editorial review, never a paid placement.

The Greenstone Ridge Trail is the classic long-distance backpacking route in Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, running roughly 40 miles along the high, rocky spine of the island from the Rock Harbor area to Windigo. It follows the Greenstone Ridge, the exposed backbone of ancient lava flows that form the island, climbing to open ridgetops with sweeping views over the forests and the surrounding waters of Lake Superior, and dipping through woods and past inland lakes. Typically hiked over several days, it immerses backpackers in one of the wildest, most remote landscapes in the national park system. Shorter sections, like the day hike to the Mount Franklin overlook, let those with less time enjoy the ridge's views without the full multi-day traverse.

Hiking the full Greenstone Ridge Trail, about 40 miles end to end across Isle Royale, typically takes most backpackers three to five days, depending on pace, fitness, and how much time is spent exploring side trails and camps. It is a genuine wilderness backpacking trip that requires camping at backcountry sites along the way, a permit, and complete self-sufficiency, since there are no services, stores, or road access on the island's interior. Planning must also account for getting to and from the two ends by connecting trails, tour boat, or ferry. For those without the time or experience for the full traverse, shorter day hikes onto the ridge, such as the climb to Mount Franklin near Rock Harbor, offer a rewarding sample of the trail in just a few hours.

Yes, backpacking and camping in the backcountry of Isle Royale National Park, including along the Greenstone Ridge Trail, requires a permit. Because the island is a remote wilderness with limited campsites, the permit system helps manage use and protect the fragile environment. Backpackers camp at designated backcountry sites, and it is important to plan an itinerary in advance, follow Leave No Trace principles, and be fully self-sufficient with proper gear, food, and water treatment, since there are no supply points in the interior. In addition to the camping permit, you must arrange transportation to the island by ferry or seaplane and time your trip within the park's open season, roughly spring through fall. Checking the park's current permit and reservation requirements before your trip is essential.

Mount Franklin is a highpoint on the Greenstone Ridge near the Rock Harbor end of Isle Royale, and it is one of the more popular day-hike destinations on the island. From the Rock Harbor area, a trail climbs up onto the Greenstone Ridge to Mount Franklin, where an open, rocky overlook offers sweeping views across the forested island and out over the waters of Lake Superior, often taking in the ridges and the far Canadian shore on clear days. It gives day hikers a taste of the scenery that Greenstone Ridge backpackers enjoy, without committing to the full 40-mile trail. Like all Isle Royale hikes, reaching it requires first getting to the island by ferry or seaplane, and hikers should carry water, food, and appropriate gear for the remote setting.