ECOTOURISM

Isle Royale & Lake Superior

Isle Royale National Park encompasses an archipelago of approximately 400 islands, 99% of which is legally designated wilderness. This road-less paradise is accessible only by boat or float plane, and has maintained a biological and ecological uniqueness that has earned it the coveted International Biosphere Reserve status. Isle Royale is the site of the world's longest running wolf/moose interaction study and many other scientific inquiries into how the natural world works.

A short venture by foot, canoe or kayak into the park’s interior can transport one back thousands of years into its prehistoric past. Join Environmental Adventure Company on this special adventure!

Highlights:

• Visit one of the most beautiful island landscapes in North America: Isle Royale National Park.
• Work with the park’s wildlife and ecology researchers as they conduct their field studies.
• Days will be spent hiking, kayaking and canoeing, studying tracks and signs of the island wildlife and learning the unique ecology of the area.
• Visit historic fishing camps on the waters of the most productive native fishery and genetically diverse trout populations in Lake Superior.

Tour Details

Day 1: Houghton, MI
Arrive in Houghton, Michigan and check in to the Houghton Best Western Franklin Square Inn. After time to relax, the group will meet for introductions, dinner and an orientation to the week’s activities and an overview of Isle Royale. Overnight at Houghton Best Western Franklin Square Inn. (D)

Day 2: Houghton and the Keeweenaw Peninsula
This morning, board a bus for the upper section of the Keweenaw Peninsula and visit the Seaman Mineral Museum and the Quency Mine. This program will offer insight to years past and the importance of mining in this area. After lunch at the mine, consisting of traditional miner’s food, you will enjoy a walking tour of Calumet with staff from the National Park Service. In the late afternoon, return to the motel for some time to relax before dinner. This evening, you'll enjoy a presentation by Ann Mayo Kiely, Director of the Isle Royale Institute. Ann will provide an overview of the ecology and historical significance of the area.

Overnight at Houghton Best Western Franklin Square Inn. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Houghton to Lake Superior and Isle Royale National Park
After an early breakfast, you'll board the National Park Service’s Ranger III for the six-hour journey across Lake Superior to Isle Royale. Enjoy the scenic wonder surrounding the world’s largest freshwater sea as well as programs on the lake. Lunch will be served on-board and you'll arrive at Rock Harbor on Isle Royale around 3:00pm. Next, check into the Rock Harbor Lodge and later meet for a short walking tour and orientation of this section of the island. Dinner and an evening program will be enjoyed at the Rock Harbor Lodge.

Overnight at Rock Harbor Lodge. (B,L,D)

Days 4-6: Isle Royale National Park
These three days will be spent entirely on Isle Royale! You will learn first-hand from researchers and naturalists the intricate natural systems of this island ecosystem. Included will be canoe/kayak tours, interpretive hikes, writing and photography workshops and hands-on learning. Dr. Rolf Peterson, senior scientist with the wolf/moose research study, will join the group for an intimate look into the longest running wolf study in the United States. You will examine signs, tracks, and with luck, visuals of these magnificent species. In addition, each day you'll be joined by NPS staff, other scientists and naturalists with information about the island’s flora and fauna. You will also enjoy an easy and safe canoe/kayak trip to Raspberry Island. Each day on Isle Royale will be filled with hands-on education, free time activities and lots of fun. Lodging, dinner and evening programs will be at the Rock Harbor Lodge.

Overnight at Rock Harbor Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Isle Royal and Lake Superior to Houghton
After an early breakfast, board the Ranger III for the journey back across Lake Superior to Houghton. You'll arrive in Houghton around 3:00pm and transfer to your motel. Later, the group will gather for a farewell dinner and social to talk about the wonderful experience of Isle Royale.

Houghton Best Western Franklin Square Inn. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Houghton, Michigan
After breakfast, you will board transportation to the airport for flights home. (B)

Weather
The Isle Royale & Lake Superior tour is located in an area where the weather may change at a moments' notice. Temperatures can vary greatly. The minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in August was 34 degrees and 85 degrees. One must be prepared in the event the weather turns for the worst. A day that starts warm and enjoyable can suddenly become cold and miserable and sometimes you may be a distance from the vehicle or protection. Being in the presence of weather changes is a large part of the Upper Peninsula's lake experience, but can be miserable if one is not prepared for the change. Preparation is the key!

Luggage
It is requested that luggage be kept to a minimum of one large (preferably soft-sided) suitcase and one carry-on/backpack per person.

Physical Activity
Most everyone in a reasonably good physical condition can participate in this tour offered by the Environmental Adventure Company. The activities will include some hiking in conditions ranging from rain and mud to dry conditions. Standing and observing for periods of time and kneeling or squatting to examine wildlife tracks or signs, setting up photographs, etc. are part of the activities. Consult with your physician if you have questions about this program. It is your responsibility to let the tour operator know of any complications that may be associated with traveling under any of these conditions.

Pre-Departure Information
When you sign-up for an adventure, you will receive a detailed Pre-Departure information packet prior to your trip which will help you prepare. This packet will help you make decisions about what to bring – and what not to bring! It includes a reading list, a clothing recommendation page as well as information on what to expect the weather to do while you are at the destination! There is also information about necessary documents, health issues, and even photographic tips. Feel free to contact EAC for more information.