Which end is more busy?

[johnniev57]

I'm looking to take 2 newbies with me.
We are probably only doing a 4-5 day hike.
I haven't been there for quite a while now (15 years - holy crap, I shouldn't have thought about that)
We are probably going to fly since it is such a short trip - we have a long enough drive to get there.

I'm just wondering which side will have less traffic. (probably looking at prime time though - August)
I've never done the Feldtmann loop or any of the Minong.
I've done Rock/Moskey/Chickenbone/Threemile/Rock
I've done Rock/Daisy - then boat to Windigo/Desor/Chickenbone/Threemile/Rock
I've done Rock to Windigo.

So I am not sure if I want to take them on the Feldtmann loop.
or
Maybe Rock to Chickenbone and back.

I'd love to fly into windigo, then catch the ferry to McCargoe / Todd Harbor / Desor / and back to Windigo but not sure I want to push it.

Any thoughts and input welcome.

Thanks!!

[JerryB]

The East end is far busier. I doubt any one will disagree.

As for routes, I think the Feldtmann Loop is one of the best for a great taste of the island. If you go around to McCargo, crossing over to Chippwa and Moskey is very nice too.

[fonixmunkee]

Seconded. East end of IR is busier by a long shot.

Feldtmann loop is a moderate hike, it can be done by newbies. It's also beautiful. Highly recommended for a first-timer.

[johnniev57]

Thanks for the input. I've only been on the Greenstone coming into Windigo.
I remember it being easy, very green, and many birch trees.
I want to make sure they see the "rocky" part of IR too.
Does any of the Feldtmann loop have that?
Thanks!

[JerryB]

Feldman has a bit of everything. From woods, to water to ridges. Not as much exposed rock as, say, the Minong, but you will get beautiful views from the ridges. I am pretty sure I am in the minority here, but I recommend going counter clockwise. You will have a steep uphill to Island Mine, but you are not starting your trip with a long, gradual uphill through the woods ( not the most exciting leg between island mine and Windigo). Another minority view: I would stay at island mine--make sure the creek is running. It is a nice north woods site and you can have a fire. It would be a relaxing final wilderness site. I did a trip t]report on this trip, as did others, so check them out.

[fonixmunkee]

I am pretty sure I am in the minority here, but I recommend going counter clockwise.

You're not in the minority on this view; when I first researched the Feldtmann loop, it appeared this was the most popular method. It's also my preferred way to take the Feldtmann.

Another minority view: I would stay at island mine--make sure the creek is running.

Now on this one, you're definitely in the minority. Island Mine doesn't have much to offer. It's not by anything. However, spending a night here does break up the long uphill slog to the Greenstone, and limits the "boring" hike along the Greenstone Trail back to Windigo.