Welcome to Isle Royale, Michigan’s hidden gem.
Have you ever imagined paddling in the midst of rugged wilderness and spectacular scenery?
The best places to paddleboard in Isle Royale are waiting for you.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as we explore these pristine waters together. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Isle Royale
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Rock Harbor
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Rock Harbor Marina (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake waters, occasional breeze
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Moose, beavers, loons, pike, and trout
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Isle Royale lighthouses, surrounding forests and cliffs
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Check weather conditions, respect the wilderness and park regulations
Rock Harbor, located on the northeast side of Isle Royale, offers serene waters in a picturesque setting.
The harbor is surrounded by lush forests, jagged cliffs, and fascinating lighthouses, adding to the beauty and diversity of your paddleboarding experience.
#2 Windigo Harbor
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Washington Harbor (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered waters, mild currents, occasional wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Beavers, foxes, otters, bald eagles, trout
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Nearby hiking trails, stunning sunsets, and remote coves
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Keep an eye on weather conditions, adhere to park rules and regulations
Windigo Harbor, situated on the southwest end of Isle Royale, presents the opportunity to paddle through remote coves and witness diverse wildlife.
The calm and sheltered waters make this a serene location for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.
#3 Tobin Harbor
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Tobin Harbor Dock (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Tranquil waters, minimal currents and winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Loons, otters, beavers, various fish species
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Forest-lined shores, scattered islands, splendid lake vistas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Pay attention to local regulations, weather conditions, and other boaters
Tobin Harbor is known for its tranquil waters and forest-lined shores, providing an idyllic paddleboarding location.
Glide peacefully through the harbor, enjoying splendid lake views and the chance to spot a variety of wildlife in its natural habitat.
#4 Belle Isle
- ????️ ️Location Type: Island
- Access Point: Belle Isle Dock (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake waters, gentle winds, minimal currents
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Loons, otters, beavers, various fish species
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Island setting, surrounding waters, lush forest
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park rules and regulations, be mindful of changing weather conditions
Belle Isle, a secluded island just south of Isle Royale, offers an unmatched paddleboarding experience.
Explore the island’s calm waters, taking in stunning views and the chance to observe wildlife in this serene and isolated setting.
#5 Mott Island
- ????️ ️Location Type: Island
- Access Point: Mott Island Dock (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake waters, gentle winds, minimal currents
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Loons, otters, beavers, various fish species
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Island setting, surrounding waters, lush forest
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park rules and regulations, be mindful of changing weather conditions
Mott Island, a smaller island south of Isle Royale, offers the opportunity to paddleboard in a unique and unspoiled environment.
Surrounded by lush forests and the calm waters of Lake Superior, Mott Island promises a picturesque and memorable paddleboarding adventure.
#6 Siskiwit Lake
- ????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- Access Point: Siskiwit Lake Campground (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, chilly waters
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Trout, ducks, moose on the shore
- ????️️️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounding forest and wetland areas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Prepare for remote conditions, respect park rules and regulations
Siskiwit Lake, located within Isle Royale National Park, is an ideal spot for paddleboarders seeking a remote and tranquil experience.
The lake is surrounded by wetlands and forests, offering glimpses of local wildlife and a serene atmosphere for exploration and relaxation.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Isle Royale?
Isle Royale offers great spots for paddle boarding at Lake Superior, Tobin Harbor, Washington Harbor, and Rock Harbor.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Isle Royale?
No, there isn’t any requirement to register paddle boards in Isle Royale.
When is the best time to paddle board in Isle Royale?
The best time to paddle board in Isle Royale is during the summer months due to favourable weather conditions.
