Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park's dark skies make it an excellent location to enjoy nighttime phenomenon, like the Aurora Borealis.
Explore a rugged, isolated island far from our connected communities. Isle Royale offers adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, paddlers, and divers. Cross Lake Superior and make a commitment: Become a part of this island, and let it become a part of you. Find peace and refuge in island wilderness – because Isle Royale, in turn, finds refuge in us. Help Isle Royale stay wild.
Map showing location of park.
A person wearing a large red backpack, a red coat, green pants, and a green hat approaches a large, brown, metal food storage locker in the woods.
Isle Royale National Park Updates Food Storage Regulations
To implement the most effective methods of keeping wildlife safe from human food/food waste, and humans safe from wildlife, Isle Royale park managers continue to evaluate and improve food storage regulations. Updated regulations went into effect April 16, 2026.
Congratulations to Summer 2026 Isle Royale Artists-in-Residence, Emerging Artists, and Teen Artists
Isle Royale National Park is proud to announce the chosen summer 2026 artists for its artist-in-residence programs.
An artistic rendering of a moose carrying a miniature ecosystem in its antlers.
Become a Summer 2026 Artist-In-Residence, Teen Artist, or Emerging Artist at Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park will expand its Artist-in-Residence programs in coordination with America 250 celebrations for summer 2026. The three programs offered will include: Established Artist-in-Residence Program (started 1991), Teen Artist Exploration (started 2016), and Emerging Artist Experience (new for 2026). Applications for these programs will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2026.
View from above the trees looking down at Duncan Bay Narrows, trees, Lake Superior, and Canada.
Photo by NPS / Paul Brown
Ice floes float in a harbor
Photo by NPS Photo / Paul Brown
Aerial View of Belle Harbor
Photo by NPS Photo / Paul Brown
Young bull moose browsing for food
Photo by NPS Photo / Paul Brown
Aerial view of Rock of Ages Lighthouse
Photo by NPS Photo / Paul Brown
Diverse colored Aurora Borealis in the night sky
Photo by NPS Photo / Paul Brown