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.
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.
Beginning November 1, 2025, commercial operators offering guided water-based tours, including charter fishing, charter sightseeing, charter transportation, charter scuba diving, and guided kayaking, can apply for a two-year CUA through the updated online CUA portal.
In August, Isle Royale NP took lethal measures to control a problem wolf due to the escalating number of concerning incidents reported by park visitors. After extensive monitoring and attempts at deterrence, and in consultation with state, federal and tribal agencies, the difficult decision to lethally remove this wolf was made. Park personnel will continue to track wolf/human interactions and remove additional wolves only if necessary.
On August 21, 2025, join Isle Royale National Park and Kaleidoscope for Ranger III Family Day. Families with children 15 or younger may reserve space aboard one of two, 45-minute scheduled waterway cruises. Ranger III will travel into Portage Lake and back during the trip.